Jerez de García Hidalgo, Zacatecas – There’s a particular strength, a quiet resilience, that defines the people of Jerez. It’s a capacity to carry their homeland within them, no matter the distance. I witnessed this firsthand during a recent trip to Fort Worth, Texas, a journey that underscored the enduring power of community and the unwavering bonds that connect Zacatecans to their roots.
The three-day visit wasn’t simply about strengthening institutional ties; it was a reaffirmation of something far more profound: the continued vitality of Jerez’s identity within its migrant community. The warmth of reunions, the sharing of stories, and the palpable sense of belonging made it clear – Jerez felt close, even thousands of miles from home. This connection, this Jerez sin fronteras – Jerez without borders – is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.
The trip coincided with the first anniversary celebration of the Federación Nuestras Raíces Zacatecanas, and it was there, amidst the festivities, that I truly grasped the depth of that connection. The Federation, as I learned, isn’t just a celebratory organization; it’s a dynamic force that actively organizes, supports, and promotes the identity of Zacatecan communities abroad. A particularly significant moment was the official launch of the first Jerez club in Texas, spearheaded by Cynthia Álvarez. This represents a historic step for our community, moving beyond mere presence to organized representation.
The anniversary event also included a moving recognition ceremony honoring “Zacatecanos del Año” – men and women who, through consistent and often quiet dedication, build a positive image of Zacatecas in their adopted home. These individuals, I was told, are true ambassadors for the best of our state. Their stories, shared during the event, were a powerful reminder of the contributions Zacatecan migrants make to their communities.
Throughout my conversations, a clear message resonated: Jerez isn’t confined by geographical boundaries. It lives on in the hearts and actions of every migrant who works, strives, and dreams abroad whereas remaining connected to their origins. To that end, a key objective of the trip was to share the essence of our traditions with the migrant community. We presented the program for the Teatro del Pueblo – the People’s Theater – and the bullfighting poster for the 2026 Jerez Spring Fair, two cornerstones of our cultural identity. The enthusiasm was genuine, a clear indication that these traditions continue to resonate with those who celebrate their homeland from afar.
We also held productive meetings with representatives from the Federación de Clubes Zacatecanos in Fort Worth, and with Luis Rodríguez Bucio, the Consul General of Mexico in Dallas. To each, we extended an open invitation: Jerez welcomes them with open arms. The Consul General, in particular, expressed his support for initiatives that strengthen ties between Zacatecas and its diaspora, noting the significant economic and cultural contributions of Zacatecan migrants to both regions. The Consulate General of Mexico in Dallas provides a range of services to Mexican citizens in the area, including consular identification, passport assistance, and legal support.
The Feria de Primavera – the Spring Fair – is more than just a celebration; it’s a homecoming. It’s a time when our traditions, our history, and our people converge. It’s a moment of collective pride and a reaffirmation of our shared identity. The 2026 fair, already in the planning stages, promises to be a vibrant showcase of Jerez’s cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, equestrian events, and, of course, bullfighting – a deeply rooted tradition in our region.
Today, more than ever, we must recognize that Jerez extends beyond its physical limits. It encompasses every migrant who carries our values, our traditions, and our spirit with them, wherever they may be. The strength of Jerez lies not just in its land, but in its people – both those who call it home and those who represent it abroad.
To our sisters and brothers in the migrant community, I say with conviction: this will always be your home. We are committed to fostering a stronger connection, to ensuring that your voices are heard, and to supporting your efforts to build a brighter future, both here and abroad.
Sobre la Firma
Rodrigo Ureño Bañuelos is the current municipal president of Jerez, Zacatecas, and a dedicated community leader with a background in agriculture. He is committed to citizen participation and the development of Jerez. More information about President Ureño Bañuelos can be found here.
Looking ahead, we are actively planning for the 2026 Spring Fair, and we encourage our community abroad to participate, either in person or through supporting our local artisans and businesses. We will continue to seek opportunities to strengthen the ties between Jerez and its diaspora, ensuring that the voices of our migrants are heard and valued. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with us – your feedback is essential as we operate to build a stronger, more connected Jerez for all.
