City leaders, guests gather for official Charro Days luncheon

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Brownsville city leaders and distinguished guests joined for an official Charro Days luncheon Friday afternoon.

Charro Days is now underway to celebrate the culture and heritage of the sister cities on both sides of the Rio Grande.

The luncheon kicked off following the traditional Hands Across the Border ceremony, a symbolic gathering at the international bridge celebrating the unity of Brownsville and Matamoros.

"We are one community that is divided by our river," John Cowen, Mayor of Brownsville said. "It's important to recognize that we're in this together and that we love and support one another."

One honorable guest who was invited to the Charro Days luncheon was musical artist Jerry Bazua.

Bazua, a Sinaloa native, has spent the majority of his life in Mexico and now lives in the United States.

He explains how honored he is to be a part of the annual tradition.

"I believe this kind of event is what makes us united," Bazua said. "It shouldn't matter if we have different national flags, what religion we are or the color of our skin. I'm proud to be Mexican and also proud to be living in the United States... I think that's what is most important; to love freely and happily."