Sure, East Los Angeles has the parade. But Boyle Heights and its people have their own reasons to celebrate this 16th of September, or Mexican Independence Day. Let us count the ways:
1- The people. According to Census figures, as many as 81.6% of Boyle Heights residents claim Mexican ancestry. And of the foreign born, who are more than half the population, 87.7% were born in México.
2- The flag. As in the recently restored mural in Ramona Gardens.
3- Mariachis. Enough to name a plaza after them.
4- Lucha Villa. We have a street named after the famous ranchera singer, and her likeness in a statue at the aforementioned Mariachi Plaza.
5- Tacos. In restaurants, food trucks and street cars, we have some of the best in town.
6- Cemitas. With a large poblano population, Boyle Heights offers a wide selection.
7- Casa del Mexicano. This local institution is on Pedro Infante Way, named after the famed Mexican screen idol.
8- José Huízar. Regardless of how you may feel about our council member, he is the first in modern Los Angeles history to have been born in México (he’s a native of Zacatecas).
9- La virgencita. There are Guadalupana figures all over town.
10- Tortillas. Dozens of local businesses make and sell the most important staple of the Mexican diet.
