Day: September 16, 2025

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Reaffirms National Sovereignty in Independence Day Speech

In a speech from the Zócalo square in front of the National Palace, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico’s commitment to peace, self-determination, and national sovereignty, inaugurating the annual military parade commemorating the first cry for independence in 1810, reports 24brussels.

“Let us also not forget that Mexico will always be a symbol of peace and global brotherhood, committed to cooperation, mutual respect, and the undisputed defense of the self-determination of peoples,” Sheinbaum stated, echoing the famous words of Benito Juárez: “Respect for the rights of others is peace.”

The president emphasized Mexico’s independence from any foreign power, insisting that “the independence, freedom, and sovereignty of Mexico means that no foreign power decides for us.” Her remarks received applause from her cabinet amid ongoing tensions with the United States over various security and trade issues.

Reflecting on the political landscape, Sheinbaum recalled that in 2025, she proposed a reform bill that garnered approval from the ruling party’s supermajority in Congress to prevent foreign intervention. The constitutional changes assert that “under no circumstances will interventions, interference, or any other act from abroad that is harmful to the integrity, independence, and sovereignty of the nation be accepted.”

She defined foreign interventions that could be perceived as threats, highlighting “coups d’état, interference in elections, or violations of Mexican territory, whether by land, sea, or airspace.” Reminding the audience that Mexico won its independence in 1821 and reaffirmed it in 1867 after the French invasion, Sheinbaum declared, “We must never forget that our independence, freedom, and sovereignty are defended every day.”

Sheinbaum stressed that these principles will be defended peacefully, focusing on a transformation that reflects the nation’s best historical ideals. She invoked Vicente Guerrero, the first president of African American heritage, as a symbol of steadfast nationalism, remarking that “true patriotism does not allow for concessions, that freedom is not negotiable, and that sovereignty is not for sale.”

The president reiterated her administration’s dedication to advancing “freedom, sovereignty, democracy, justice, and equality,” aimed at enhancing well-being for all Mexicans, particularly prioritizing the needs of the impoverished. She criticized opponents who seek foreign assistance to undermine her government, stating, “The election to the Judiciary (held last June) gave the people the mandate to be an impartial, independent system close to the citizenry.”

Sheinbaum concluded by asserting that the new courts and tribunals are tasked with ensuring equal justice for all, “without privileges or exceptions.” The annual military parade held on September 16 complements the “El Grito” ceremony, featuring members of the Mexican armed forces—the Army, Navy, Air Force, and National Guard—parading in tribute to the President.

The Ministry of National Defense noted that the parade symbolizes the loyalty and commitment of the armed forces to protect the Mexican populace. This year’s event is particularly significant as it marks the first time in 215 years that a woman has inaugurated the national holidays.

Sheinbaum also honored national heroes such as Miguel Hidalgo, José María Morelos, Ignacio Allende, and Vicente Guerrero, while making history by paying tribute to insurgent women like Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, Leona Vicario, Gertrudis Bocanegra, and Manuela Molina “La Barragana.”

Opening the ceremony with “Long live Independence!” Sheinbaum chanted traditional cheers honoring figures of the insurgent movement. The Zócalo, Mexico City’s political and cultural hub, resonated with celebrations from citizens who had gathered for hours to witness this historic occasion.

Origin of the Cry

The Cry of Dolores, attributed to Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, occurred in the early morning of September 16, 1810, in Dolores, Guanajuato. This call to resist Spanish rule ignited the Mexican independence movement, as Hidalgo, inspired by libertarian ideas circulating since 1808, participated in conspiracies organized in Querétaro. Though the rebellion was slated for December 1810, it was hastened following its discovery by the viceregal authorities. Alerted by the corregidora, the insurgents moved swiftly. At dawn on the 16th, Hidalgo rang the parish bell and called upon a crowd gathered in the atrium to initiate the fight for Mexican Independence.