Kino Bay, Sonora, Mexico
Today in Mexico is a holiday – Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day), commemorating the Revolution of 1910. The Revolution began with the ouster of the dictator Porfirio Diaz and lasted for ten bloody years in which the nation lost 10% of its population. This is one of many important national holidays, and it is celebrated in the little village of Bahía de Kino Viejo (Old Kino) with a parade and performances in the parque central. All the school children come out, either in school uniforms or costumes representing various aspects of the revolution. There are the oligarchs in their finery, bandidos and brave revolutionary soldiers, Federales, and indigenous people. Kindergarteners in elaborate costume dance to “Guadalajara” and “La Bamba.” Community dignitaries sit at a table of honor and review the performances, then make their speeches while hordes of people stand in long lines to buy steaming tacos from stands spilling smoke and the delicious aroma of roasting meat and chile. It seemed as if the entire town came out to celebrate the Revolution that formed modern Mexico.
Perry and I followed the parade through the streets, then tried out the tacos (delicious!) while watching the staged show. And we were greeted by people we now know from our day-to-day dealings here – from shops and restaurants and English classes taught by a friend where we’ve begun to help out with conversation practice. Little by little we learn and are absorbed into the culture, and we feel great gratitude to be embraced by these warm and generous people. You will know what I mean when you come and experience it yourselves! – CK