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Shriek heard from a female individual

Adding the female characters is a strategy to finish the narrative, ensuring that all crucial components are represented, neither disregarded nor minimized.

A female voice emitting a piercing scream
A female voice emitting a piercing scream

Shriek heard from a female individual

In the annals of Mexican history, the roles of women have often been overlooked or understated. However, a significant ongoing endeavor in academia and beyond is working to rectify this oversight, shining a light on the heroines who played pivotal roles in shaping the nation's past.

Leticia Bonifaz, a key figure based at UNAM, is leading this effort. Her work has brought to light the complex relationships of women like Doña Josefa and Doña Leona with their respective husbands, Miguel Hidalgo and Andrés Quintana Roo. Both women had four children each, while Doña Leona had three daughters.

The rescue of these heroines from the shadows of history began with isolated actions. One such instance is the cry of independence given by Amalia Castillo Ledón in Dolores Hidalgo in 1959. Another example is Palma Guillén, who is believed to have given the cry from a Mexican embassy in Bogotá in 1935.

The methodology for this rescue has evolved over the years, transitioning from isolated actions to a systematic, coordinated approach. This evolution is evident in the annual commemoration of Miguel Hidalgo's call for independence on September 16, 1810, which is now referred to as 'the Cry of Dolores' and is commemorated on September 15th.

In the current year, the President referred to Doña Josefa, Leona Vicario, Gertrudis Bocanegra, and Manuela Molina 'La Capitana' in the cry. Notably, Doña Josefa was first included in the cry by López Portillo in 1980.

One of the most recent examples of this ongoing effort is Claudia Sheinbaum, who became the first woman to give the cry of independence from the National Palace's balcony.

The goal of this rescue mission is to present a complete history, free of oversight or disrespect. This is a significant ongoing endeavor, as the first woman who called for independence from the balcony of the National Palace before 1935 remains unidentified in the provided search results.

Leona Vicario, who had more recognition in her time than Doña Josefa, left important writings, including one addressed to Lucas Alamán. These writings provide valuable insights into the lives and roles of these women in Mexican history.

The rescue of these heroines is not just a matter of historical accuracy, but also of respect and acknowledgement for their contributions. A history without these heroines, without proper oversight or respect, is another history altogether.

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