In Laredo, Texas, a centuries-old ceremony celebrating the friendship between the U.S. and Mexico continued despite rising political tensions at the border. The event features a symbolic meeting between representatives of both countries, with children dressed in traditional attire embracing each other. This year, the ceremony was highlighted by statements from local leaders emphasizing the historical and future connections between the two nations. The festival is a vibrant celebration that reinforces community bonds, portraying a message of unity and shared history that resonates more than ever in today’s climate.
The bridge ceremony matters more than ever now. There's nothing more powerful than children representing Mexico and wearing traditional garb meeting children from the United States and embracing in front of officials.
Our histories could not be written without each other, and our futures will not be written without each other, said state Rep. Richard Peña Raymond.
This ritual embodies the links between Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, and aims to transcend what have become rancorous relations between the two countries.
For the sister cities known as Los Dos Laredos, the ceremony is a highlight of nearly two months of uber-patriotic celebration, a sort of border Mardi Gras featuring lavish society galas and parades.
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