The mood was set by Spanish music playing in Gorton Quad as M.E.Ch.A. (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan) set up the area to celebrate Mexican Independence day on Sept 16.

With poetry readings and live music scheduled, the celebration began as MEChA President Jose Mondragon stepped up to the mike.

“It’s important to commemorate this day… for MEChA, for us. It’s important to keep our culture alive… We are proud of who we are; we’re proud of where we come from,” said Mondragon.

The event, which was co-sponsored by Puente, also had support from Bienestar, a nonprofit community service organization that aims to enhance the health and well being of the Latino community.

Free HIV testing was provided by Bienestar through the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency.

The organization also provided free condoms at their information desk.

Presentations included a poetry reading by Jaziel Carrillo, a MEChA club member.

Carrillo read two select poetry pieces by journalist, novelist and poet Mario Benedetti.

Live music was provided by City College student Esteban Cordozo, who preformed three musical pieces.

MEChA is a City College club, loosely associated with the national group MEChA, that aims to raise cultural awareness, to succeed as a community and embrace its heritage.

For more club information contact Jose Mondragon, club president, at [email protected].