Mexico City's newly-elected president, Sheinbaum, pays tribute to the female champions of Mexico's Independence during her initial 'Grito' address.
Mexico Celebrates Independence Day with Historic Firsts
On the eve of Mexico's Independence Day, history was made as President Claudia Sheinbaum delivered the Grito de Independencia from the central balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City's Zócalo. This marked the first time in over 200 years that a woman performed this ritual, making Sheinbaum the first female president to do so.
The flag waved by President Sheinbaum was given to her for the first time by military women from Mexico's Heroic Military College. The ceremony was a poignant moment, symbolising the unity and strength of the Mexican armed forces.
As Sheinbaum delivered her cry of "Viva México libre, independiente y soberano! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México!", an estimated 280,000 revelers responded, their voices echoing across the square. Cries of "Claudia!" and "presidenta" broke out, reflecting the pride and admiration the crowd felt for their leader.
The energy in the Zócalo increased as time passed, with live music and performances, including a set by La Arrolladora Banda El Limón de René Camacho, causing the atmosphere to become palpable. The music, coupled with the anticipation of the Grito, created a festive and exhilarating atmosphere.
In her speech, President Sheinbaum paid homage to various Mexican independence heroes, particularly four women: Josefa Ortiz Téllez Girón, Leona Vicario, Gertrudis Bocanegra, and Manuela Molina. She also resumed a tradition started by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador by mounting an Honor Guard.
The Cry of Independence, a call for revolt against Spanish rule, was first issued by priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in Dolores, Guanajuato, on Sept. 16, 1810. In a symbolic gesture, Sheinbaum rang the Campana de Dolores, the same bell that Hidalgo rang 215 years ago.
Following the Grito, an elaborate fireworks display lit up the night sky, adding to the jubilant mood. Mexico News Daily reported a jovial, but calm atmosphere in the Zócalo, with various food vendors and roving merchants present. Roving vendors sold patriotic penachos (headdresses), sarapes, cigarettes, candy, and various beverages, including beer, canned tequila cocktails, and stronger alcohol.
As 11 p.m. approached, the national party in the Zócalo and across Mexico was in full swing, reaching fever pitch. This year's Independence Day celebrations were particularly significant, as 2025 is the "Year of the Indigenous Woman" in Mexico, with Leona Vicario, a historic Mexican independence hero, being honoured by having her portrait placed in the main gallery of the National Palace for the first time.
President Sheinbaum's delivery of the Grito de Independencia was a momentous occasion, marking a new chapter in Mexican history. Her leadership and commitment to honouring the country's past while looking towards its future was evident in every word she spoke and every action she took. Mexico's Independence Day celebrations were a testament to the country's resilience, unity, and pride.
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