REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 16, 2025 as Mexican Independence Day
Report
BACKGROUND
Mexico, once known as New Spain, was a colony ruled by the kingdom of Spain for over 300 years. In 1810, Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued a call to action against Spanish colonial rule. Frustrated by the socio-economic inequalities and oppression of indigenous and mestizo populations, Hidalgo's actions are seen as the spark that ignited the war for Mexican independence.
On September 16, 1810, he rang his church’s bell and delivered a speech now known as the Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores), demanding the end of Spanish rule. This started the Mexican War of Independence that lasted over a decade. On August 24, 1821, Spain withdrew and officially recognized Mexico as an independent country.
Mes Patrio or "Patriotic Month" refers to the month of September in Mexico, when the country celebrates its independence from Spain. The celebrations culminate with the Grito de Dolores on the evening of September 15th and Mexican Independence Day on September 16th, commemorating the call to arms by Father Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. Mexican Independence Day has been celebrated every year since that momentous day on September 16, 1810.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Clara is increasingly shaped by the economic, social, and cultural contributions of the Mexican community and is proud to be home to many residents of Mexican heritage. Forming a significant part of Santa Clara at 15.8% of the City’s population, by 2002, one out of every 10 residents of Santa Clara was of Mexican descent.
On September 16, 2025, the City of Santa Clara will proclaim Mexican Independence Day to celebrate and reflect upon the history and individuals that led to and shaped their nation’s independence.
Consul General Neftali Said Perez Gonzalez from the Consulate General of Mexico will be present to receive the proclamation. The Consulate General of Mexico is an official representation of the Government of Mexico in US territory. One of its principal functions is to serve the community of Mexican origin that resides within its jurisdiction, which includes the San Francisco Bay Area.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of September 16, 2025 as Mexican Independence Day