Mexico marked its 215th Independence Day with a milestone Monday night as President Claudia Sheinbaum became the first woman to lead the nation’s most important civic ceremony. Before a crowd packed into Mexico City’s Zócalo, Sheinbaum delivered the traditional “Cry of Independence” from the National Palace balcony, honoring the 1810 uprising that began Mexico’s fight for freedom.
Breaking a Century-Old Tradition
Since the 19th century, Mexico’s Independence Day gala had been led only by men.
“The fact that it’s a woman who gives the cry does represent a substantial change,” said Alfredo Ávila, a historian at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, noting the celebration’s long patriarchal history.
Sheinbaum, a former Mexico City mayor and scientist, took office as Mexico’s first female president on Oct. 1, 2024.
A Night of Cheers and Fireworks
Shouts of “Long live freedom, equality, and justice!” echoed across the square as Sheinbaum rang the historic bell, followed by the cathedral’s chimes and a national anthem singalong. Across the country, families honored the occasion with fireworks, music, and traditional foods such as pozole and chiles en nogada.
Security Concerns Temper Festivities
While Mexico City celebrated in full, violence forced several municipalities in Michoacán and Sinaloa to scale back events. In Sinaloa, where cartel factions have clashed for over a year, authorities limited activities to a single civic ceremony involving government and military officials.
A New York state judge dismissed two criminal counts against Luigi Mangione on Tuesday, though the 27-year-old remains charged with second-degree murder in the December 2024 shooting of UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson. Justice Gregory Carro announced the decision in Manhattan Supreme Court as Mangione appeared in handcuffs and tan prison clothing.
Background of the Case
Thompson was shot outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel on December 4, 2024, during an investor conference for UnitedHealth Group’s insurance unit. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to both state and federal charges stemming from the killing and remains in federal custody in Brooklyn. Trial dates have not been set.
Public Reaction and Supporters
Outside the courthouse, a small group of demonstrators gathered to support Mangione. Some wore “Free Luigi” T-shirts, waved the Italian tricolor marked with “Healthcare is a human right,” and even dressed as the Nintendo character Luigi. Inside, about two dozen spectators—mostly young women—filled the courtroom seats.
Political Violence Concerns
The case comes amid heightened fears of politically motivated violence following the recent killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. Officials across party lines have condemned both incidents, though Mangione has gained an unusual following among critics of high healthcare costs.
Next Steps
Mangione continues to face serious charges in both state and federal court. The judge’s dismissal of two counts does not affect the central murder charge, and no trial date has been scheduled.
The Harris County Democratic Party narrowly voted down a proposal that would have barred elected Democrats from endorsing or raising money for Republicans, a measure prompted by Houston Mayor John Whitmire’s appearance at a fundraiser for U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw earlier this year.
The rule change was debated after some precinct chairs criticized Whitmire, a longtime Democrat, for participating in the Republican congressman’s event. Supporters of the measure argued that elected Democrats should not be seen boosting members of the opposing party, while opponents said the proposal amounted to overreach.
Party Chair Mike Doyle said he was concerned the rule could complicate officials’ participation in bipartisan or nonpartisan events. “We have to be careful not to tie the hands of our elected leaders in ways that might hurt the county,” Doyle said.
Whitmire, who spent decades in the Texas Senate before winning the Houston mayor’s office last year, defended his appearance at the fundraiser as part of maintaining relationships across the aisle. His critics say the move risks alienating Democratic voters who expect party unity ahead of the 2026 elections.
Although the proposal failed, precinct chairs who supported it said they intend to keep pushing for stronger standards on party loyalty.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced this week that she will not seek a third term, ending months of speculation about her political future and clearing the way for a crowded 2026 race to succeed her.
Hidalgo, first elected in 2018 at age 27, said she was honoring a promise to voters to serve only two terms. She denied rumors that she planned to challenge U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia in the 29th Congressional District and instead voiced support for the Houston Democrat.
In an interview with the Houston Chronicle Hidalgo said, “After that, I don’t know. I don’t know what I will do. I know that I’m not running for office this cycle. I can say that with confidence and I know that I will stay in public service.”
Her tenure as the county’s top executive has been marked by partisan clashes on Commissioners Court over tax rates, budget priorities and early childhood education programs. Hidalgo also took a temporary leave in 2023 to receive treatment for clinical depression, later returning to complete her term.
The announcement sets up a competitive 2026 race in the state’s most populous county. On the Democratic side, former Houston Mayor Annise Parker, City Council member Letitia Plummer and educator Erica Lee Carter have signaled interest. Republican candidates include firefighter union president Marty Lancton and Piney Point Village Mayor Aliza Dutt.
Hidalgo, whose current term ends in December 2026, said she remains committed to public service but has not decided on her next role.
A new Texas law that took effect this month criminalizes the possession, promotion or production of obscene visual material that appears to depict children, including artificial intelligence-generated images and animated depictions.
Senate Bill 20, authored by Republican Sen. Pete Flores, creates a new offense in the state penal code aimed at closing what supporters call a loophole in child exploitation laws. The measure makes it a state jail felony to knowingly access or distribute obscene material that appears to show a person under 18 engaged in sexual conduct. Penalties escalate to second- or third-degree felonies for repeat offenders.
Supporters of the law say it addresses the rise of computer-generated child sexual abuse material that previously fell outside existing statutes.
“We have to adapt our laws to protect children in the digital age,” Flores said when the measure advanced earlier this year.
But critics warn the law’s language is vague and could be used to target artistic works. The statute applies to any image that “appears to depict” a minor, raising concerns among artists, manga creators and anime enthusiasts who fear certain content could fall under the ban.
First Amendment advocates also note the law could be challenged in court, citing U.S. Supreme Court precedent that struck down similar federal provisions in 2002. The Texas Public Radio network reported that vendors at anime conventions have already begun removing material they fear might draw legal scrutiny.
Gov. Greg Abbott signed SB 20 into law earlier this year, and it became effective Sept. 1 alongside more than 800 new state laws. Legal experts expect the measure to face tests in the courts as prosecutors begin to apply its provisions.
President Donald Trump’s new tariffs—10% on most imports and higher “reciprocal” rates on select goods—are prompting a wave of price increases across U.S. retail and manufacturing. Companies say they must offset rising costs on everything from steel to luxury handbags.
Major Retailers Pass Costs to Shoppers
Walmart, Target, Macy’s, and Home Depot each warned of selective or broad price hikes. Walmart’s CEO said the increases are “more than any retailer can absorb,” while Target and Macy’s are raising prices on produce and apparel. Home Depot expects “modest price movement” in certain imported categories.
Apparel and Footwear Feel the Pinch
Adidas plans U.S. price hikes after heavy tariff losses, while Nike is preparing “surgical” increases to counter an expected $1 billion in added costs. Columbia Sportswear and Hermès have also announced U.S.-only increases, citing uncertainty over ongoing trade negotiations.
Automakers Raise Vehicle Prices
Ford, Volkswagen, and Ferrari are adjusting prices as 25% tariffs on cars and parts drive manufacturing costs up by thousands per vehicle. Ford has already raised prices on models built in Mexico, and Volkswagen signaled increases by summer.
Electronics and Luxury Goods Affected
Camera makers Nikon, Canon, and Leica have enacted or scheduled price adjustments. Swiss watchmaker Swatch plans hikes up to 15%, even releasing a satirical “WHAT IF…TARIFFS?” watch. Nintendo raised prices on older consoles and accessories, warning more changes may follow.
Consumer Goods and Food Companies React
Conagra expects higher costs for ingredients like tinplate steel and cocoa, hinting at food price hikes. Procter & Gamble, maker of Tide and Charmin, is evaluating brand-by-brand increases. Fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu announced U.S. price jumps after losing a key low-value import exemption.
Economists Warn of Wider Impact
Experts caution that Trump’s unpredictable trade policy could fuel broader inflation. With tariffs now biting across multiple sectors, shoppers should brace for rising prices throughout 2025.
President Donald Trump announced a second U.S. military strike on a vessel he claimed was carrying cocaine and fentanyl from Venezuela toward the United States.
The operation, conducted in international waters, killed three men and left “big bags of cocaine and fentanyl” floating in the ocean, Trump told reporters. He said no U.S. forces were harmed and warned traffickers that the U.S. is “hunting” anyone moving drugs that can harm Americans.
Legal and Political Disputes
The strike follows an earlier Sept. 2 attack that killed 11 people. Trump has classified drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a move his administration argues allows the military to use lethal force usually reserved for counterterrorism. Critics, including Republican Sen. Rand Paul, question whether such actions are lawful or amount to war crimes. The White House has not publicly shared its legal justification.
Unclear Details and International Reactions
Video posted by Trump shows a small boat exploding in black smoke, though officials have not confirmed whether a drone carried out the strike. Venezuela’s interior minister denied the crew were traffickers or part of the Tren de Aragua gang. Earlier this month, U.S. personnel boarded another Venezuelan fishing boat but found no contraband.
Military Buildup in the Region
Trump has increased U.S. military presence near Venezuela, deploying eight Navy ships, 10 F-35 fighter jets, and at least one MQ-9 Reaper drone. His counterterrorism adviser said the terrorist designation of cartels “opens up options” for the military, signaling more potential strikes ahead.
Que Onda Magazine joins the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Since its founding in 1993, it proudly became Houston’s first Spanish-language newspaper, created by two Mexican immigrants: Lilia Esparza and the late Jose G. Esparza. After 32 years, it has evolved into a successful bilingual magazine backed by sponsors and media partners such as ABC13, reaching the community through print, digital, and social platforms.
Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. It is observed from September 15 to October 15 to coincide with the independence days of Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
The celebration honors the culture, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Today, it includes festivals, performances, educational programs, and community events that recognize the enduring influence of Latinos on the nation’s history, identity, and progress.
Que Onda Magazine remains committed to highlighting stories of success and perseverance that reflect the heart of the community. This Hispanic Heritage Month, the magazine reaffirms its mission to give voice to Latinos in Houston and to keep roots, traditions, and cultural pride alive for future generations.
Houston—one of the most diverse cities in the country—has a Hispanic population that makes up nearly 45% of residents, shaping the city’s culture, politics, and economy.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo made history as the first woman and Latina to hold the post at age 27. Sheriff Ed González is a respected law-enforcement voice, while Commissioners Lesley Briones and Adrian García strengthen Hispanic representation in county government. Elizabeth Brock González, chair of METRO’s board, oversees one of the nation’s largest transit systems as the first Hispanic woman in that role, and Dr. Laura Murillo, president of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, continues to elevate Latino business leadership.
On the city council, Mario Castillo, Julián Ramírez, and Joaquín Martínez help shape municipal policy. Latino athletes also fuel Houston’s championship pride: Astros stars José Altuve (Venezuela), Carlos Correa (Puerto Rico), Yordan Álvarez (Cuba), and Mauricio Dubón (Honduras—the first MLB player born and raised there) have all contributed to World Series titles and inspire future generations.
Global Latino Stars
Latino artists continue to influence world culture, carrying their roots onto the global stage:
Lin-Manuel Miranda – Puerto Rican–American playwright who redefined Broadway with Hamilton and In the Heights.
Shakira – Colombian superstar blending Latin rhythms with pop, performing at the World Cup and Super Bowl.
Daddy Yankee – Puerto Rican “King of Reggaeton,” bringing the genre worldwide.
Bad Bunny – Puerto Rican record-breaker proving Spanish-language music can dominate global charts.
Karol G – Colombian icon empowering women in urban music and expanding reggaeton’s reach.
Zoe Saldaña – Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, star of Avatar and Guardians of the Galaxy.
Anya Taylor-Joy – Miami-born to Argentine parents, bringing Latin identity to acclaimed Hollywood roles.
John Leguizamo – Colombian-American actor using comedy and film to spotlight Latino stories and demand representation.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events in Houston
Que Onda Magazine’s Fiesta Mexicana Sept. 17, 2025 – 6–10 p.m. Celebrating 32 years of community engagement, Que Onda hosts a Fiesta Mexicana with authentic Mexican food, mariachi performances, folkloric dance, and El Grito Mexicano to honor both Mexico’s Independence Day and Houston’s first Spanish-language publication.
Panel Discussion: Roots and Resilience – Elevating Latino Voices Sept. 20, 2025 – 5:30 p.m. An inspiring conversation with three Afro-Latino artists exploring how their heritage enriches music, dance, literature, and visual arts with powerful stories and rhythms.
Discovery Green: Ballet Folklórico and Mariachis Sept. 20, 2025 – 7–10 p.m. Experience traditional Mexican dances, mariachi music, and indigenous traditions with more than 70 international performers, plus a Latin market of food and crafts.
The Salsa Festival Sept. 21, 2025 – 1–10 p.m. A full day of live Latin music, folkloric performances, and international cuisine that celebrates cultural unity and preserves vibrant traditions. Tickets start at $12.
Stay informed with the latest cultural events in Houston with Que Onda Magazine.
The 2025 Emmys broke their reputation for predictability with a night full of upsets and record-setters. Apple TV+’s Severance, the most-nominated series, watched as HBO’s gritty newcomerThe Pitt claimed the top drama prize, edging out heavy favorites.
Big Moments on Stage
Disney+’s Andor won best writing in a drama series, while Slow Horses scored a surprise directing victory. Severance still celebrated acting triumphs: Britt Lower won best actress in a drama and Tramell Tillman became the first Black man to win supporting actor in that category. Comedy also delivered shocks when Jeff Hiller of the quietly canceled Somebody Somewhere bested high-profile competitors for supporting actor.
Limited Series Sweep
HBO’s Adolescence emerged as the night’s powerhouse, taking six Emmys, including limited series and a historic win for Owen Cooper, now the youngest male actor ever to earn an Emmy. The Studio wasn’t far behind, with Seth Rogen personally collecting four trophies for his comedic tour de force.
A Farewell Ovation
The evening’s most emotional applause went to Stephen Colbert, whose Late Show captured best talk series months after its cancellation, reminding the crowd why it remained a cultural staple.
2025 Emmy Award Winners
Outstanding Drama Series: The Pitt Lead Actor, Drama: Noah Wyle, The Pitt Lead Actress, Drama: Britt Lower, Severance Supporting Actor, Drama: Tramell Tillman, Severance Supporting Actress, Drama: Katherine LaNasa, The Pitt Writing, Drama: Andor Directing, Drama: Slow Horses
Outstanding Comedy Series: The Studio Lead Actor, Comedy: Seth Rogen, The Studio Lead Actress, Comedy: Jean Smart, Hacks Supporting Actor, Comedy: Jeff Hiller, Somebody Somewhere Supporting Actress, Comedy: Hannah Einbinder, Hacks Writing, Comedy: The Studio Directing, Comedy: The Studio
Outstanding Limited Series: Adolescence Lead Actor, Limited: Stephen Graham, Adolescence Lead Actress, Limited: Cristin Milioti, The Penguin Supporting Actor, Limited: Owen Cooper, Adolescence Supporting Actress, Limited: Erin Doherty, Adolescence Writing, Limited: Adolescence Directing, Limited: Adolescence
Outstanding Talk Series: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert Outstanding Scripted Variety Series: Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Outstanding Variety Special (Live): SNL50: The Anniversary Special Outstanding Reality Competition Program: The Traitors
An immigration judge has ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) cannot deport Catalina “Xochitl” Santiago without proof that her legal status was revoked.
Santiago, a 28-year-old DACA recipient from Mexico, has been held at the El Paso Service Processing Center since August after Border Patrol agents stopped her at El Paso International Airport.
Detention Sparks Nationwide Protests
Santiago’s detention ignited demonstrations in El Paso, Phoenix, Chicago, and Boston, where she previously worked with immigrant rights groups.
“Our family and community have suffered every single day since she was taken,” her spouse Desiree Miller said.“Now that the judge threw out her case, she should not spend another night in detention.”
Santiago’s spouse, Desiree Miller, speaks at a rally in favor of Santiago’s release. Screenshot courtesy of Paul Ratje via The Texas Tribune
ICE Plans to Appeal
Despite the ruling, ICE lawyers plan to appeal and will keep Santiago in custody, her attorney Norma Islas told The Texas Tribune. A federal hearing is scheduled for Sept. 23 before U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone, who has ordered that Santiago not be transferred out of El Paso while the case continues.
Background and Legal Battle
Santiago, born in Oaxaca and a member of the Zapotec Indigenous community, has lived in the United States since age 8 and renewed her DACA status six times. Federal courts have preserved DACA protections for current recipients, but the Trump administration has sought to dismantle the program. Homeland Security officials argue that DACA does not guarantee immunity from deportation and cited a 2020 Arizona arrest that prosecutors later declined to pursue.
Supporters Push for Release
Miller said she speaks to Santiago daily by phone and emphasized that her wife remains strong and informed about the detention process. “There’s no reason for them to keep holding her in there,” Miller told The Texas Tribune. “There was no reason for them to detain her in the first place.”
Next Steps
Santiago’s legal team is asking the federal court to order her release while ICE appeals. Judge Cardone noted in her order that constitutional protections apply to everyone within the United States and warned that deporting Santiago now could mean she “may never be able to return.”
