Historic Milestone as President Claudia Sheinbaum Leads Independence Celebration
On September 15, 2025, President Claudia Sheinbaum made history by delivering her first Independence Cry to an audience of over 150,000 in Mexico City’s Zócalo, becoming the first woman to preside over this centuries-old tradition, reports 24brussels.
At 11:00 p.m. local time, Sheinbaum appeared on the central balcony of the National Palace, holding the Mexican flag as she commemorated the 215th anniversary of the start of Mexico’s War of Independence.
“Long live Independence!” she exclaimed, followed by traditional shouts honoring key figures including Miguel Hidalgo, the Father of the Fatherland. In a significant gesture, she also highlighted Josefa Ortiz Téllez Quirón, commonly known as Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, while restoring her own identity devoid of marital association. She alternated naming historical heroes and heroines, emphasizing the contributions of Indigenous women and migrants.
Prior to her address, Sheinbaum undertook a ceremonial walk through the National Palace, her residence, where she received the flag from female cadets of the Military College, marking a historic first for an all-female honor guard. She concluded her remarks with three enthusiastic shouts of “Long live Mexico!” before ringing the Dolores bell, a symbol of the independence movement since Miguel Hidalgo sounded it in 1810.
This year’s Independence ceremony reflects not only the rich cultural heritage of Mexico but also marks a progressive step in the nation’s history, underscoring the role of women in leadership.
