By Bernardo Montoya
A Quarter Century of History
The Mexican Consulate in Omaha opened its doors 25 years ago in response to the growing number of Mexicans settling in the region. Its opening was driven by then-Consul José Luis Cuevas, who managed the necessary procedures with local and federal authorities to confirm the presence of the Mexican community, establish access to services, ensure safety, and gain the support of community leaders.
In its early years, the consulate served North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska, with a staff of only nine employees providing basic services such as issuing passports, consular ID cards, birth certificates, and consular protection. Over time, the Mexican community grew significantly, which led to North Dakota and South Dakota being reassigned to another jurisdiction, allowing the consulate to focus its efforts on Nebraska and Iowa.
Currently, it is estimated that between 150,000 and 300,000 Mexicans reside within this jurisdiction. The difference in these numbers is due to the fact that many individuals cannot be officially counted because of their immigration status or other social and economic factors, reflecting the size and diversity of the community served by the institution.
Expansion and Recent Achievements
Today, the consulate has 20 employees and has expanded its range of services to meet the community’s needs. These include specialized services dedicated to health, financial education, and comprehensive support for women, as well as legal advisory programs and guidance on procedures such as IMSS, Infonavit, and the Federal Taxpayer Registry. These services aim not only to provide administrative support but also to promote the well-being and integration of the Mexican community in the region.
Current Consul Jorge Espejel has 40 years of diplomatic experience and has served in nine different assignments. During his tenure, he has overseen the relocation of the consulate to Farnam Street and secured the recognition of the Consular ID Card as a secure document in Nebraska and Iowa. In addition, he has strengthened the consulate’s political presence and relationships with local and state authorities. He also signed an agreement with One World to operate the Health Window and launched educational activities within the consulate’s facilities.
“We want to simplify procedures, reduce wait times, and continue promoting economic development, considering that Nebraska and Iowa are Mexico’s second-largest trading partners,” said Consul Espejel. He emphasized that the consulate seeks not only to provide services but also to create opportunities that strengthen the cultural and economic ties between both nations.
A Double Celebration: Anniversary and El Grito
This year, the consulate is celebrating its 25th anniversary along with the commemoration of Mexico’s Independence Day, making the occasion doubly special. The official El Grito ceremony will take place on Monday, September 15, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., at the Gene Leahy Mall, a landmark venue in Omaha that will open the celebration to all communities and nationalities, reaffirming a message of inclusion and unity.
The program will feature local artists, mariachi bands, dancers, poetry, and the civic ceremony, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the city’s downtown. “This year, we want to send a clear message of inclusion and pride. It is very meaningful that this celebration coincides with the first El Grito led by a woman president in Mexico. The presence of our community in Nebraska and Iowa reflects the strength and importance of Mexico in the United States,” said Espejel.
Invitation to the Community
Consul Espejel extended an open invitation to all Mexicans and friends of Mexico to take part in this historic celebration. It will be an opportunity to reaffirm the community’s identity, achievements, and unity during a night filled with tradition and pride.
“We want this to be a celebration for everyone, where the love for Mexico and the recognition of the great contributions our community makes to this region can truly be felt,” he stated.
The night will conclude with a collective and powerful cry that will resonate throughout the city: Viva México!
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