SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 183

WHEREAS, The 86th annual Charro Days Fiesta is taking place in Brownsville from February 18 through 25, 2023; and

WHEREAS, The idea for the event was conceived by local business leaders who sought to raise the spirits of their fellow community members during the Great Depression, and the first Charro Days Fiesta was held in February 1938; since its inception, the binational festival has honored the spirit of the charros, the Mexican cowboys who are considered heroes of the borderlands, and attendees often dress in the cowboys' traditional costumes; the early years of festivities also included horse-drawn parade floats, elegant costume balls, street parties, and fireworks launched with a traditional joyful yell, known as a "grito"; and

WHEREAS, The City of Matamoros in Mexico has played an integral role in the success of the Charro Days Fiesta; in years past, international bridges were opened during the festival so that friends and family from across the border could share in the celebration; today, the sister cities host the Hands Across the Bridge ceremony, when the mayors of Matamoros and Brownsville meet to officially begin the week of festivities; and

WHEREAS, Each year, the Charro Days Fiesta showcases the rich history and culture of the Brownsville and Matamoros communities, and this festive occasion is indeed deserving of special recognition; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby commemorate the 86th annual Charro Days Fiesta and extend to the organizers, participants, and attendees sincere best wishes for a fun and successful event.

LaMantia

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 21, 2023.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate