The 67th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade kicked off with plenty of fanfare in East Los Angeles on Sunday, September 8, 2013..
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti served as the grand marshal. Garcetti, the grandson of Mexican immigrants, paid tribute to his heritage and the heritage of the city.
"This is a wonderful American city with a proud Mexican past as well, and our future is linked so closely to our Mexican compatriots across the border and those who trace their ancestry there," Gacetti said.
Councilman Jose Huizar also appeared in the parade.
The parade is the oldest and largest Hispanic parade in the nation. The parade ran along Cesar E. Chavez Avenue from Mednik Avenue to Gage Avenue, through the heart of East Los Angeles. A festival followed the parade's conclusion.
The parade stands as a symbol of union and joy, having gathered hundreds of thousands of participants and attendees. The parade celebrates Hispanic Heritage as well as the 82nd. anniversary of the formation of its organizer, Comité Mexicano Cívico Patriótico, an institution that has stood as one of the pillars of the Mexican-American community in Los Angeles since its inception in 1931.
Garfield High School was proud to participate in thie great event. Our Marching Band, Cheer Units, Drill Team, JROTC Cadets and our School Principal drew many cheers and stirred the crowd along the parade route!
For more pictures please go to the Photo Album on this site!