| Keyword |
Description |
| Palpable |
So intense as to seem almost tangible |
| Permeated |
To soak into, penetrate |
| Sovereignty |
The right of a country to self-govern and make its own laws |
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s delivery of the “Grito de Independencia” on September 15, 2025, marked a historic shift in Mexico’s national narrative. As the country’s first female president, Sheinbaum honored not only the foundational male heroes like Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla but also centered her message around women’s vital yet historically overlooked role in Mexico’s fight for independence. In a plaza filled with over 280,000 citizens from all walks of life, Sheinbaum specifically named heroines Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, Leona Vicario, Gertrudis Bocanegra, and Manuela Molina. She paid tribute as well to “anonymous heroines” and indigenous women, connecting the recognition of the past to present-day movements for gender and social equality.
Reflecting on Mexico’s contemporary challenges, Sheinbaum’s speech was not just about historical remembrance; it was a call for unity and dignity amid external pressures and internal transformation. She emphasized national sovereignty in light of tension with the United States over migration and security, reinforcing the values of justice, democracy, and freedom. Her words, “Long live independence!” and “Long live the dignity of Mexico’s people!” echoed through the historic Zócalo, energizing a crowd already alive with music, food, and tradition.
Symbolism permeated the night. Sheinbaum received the presidential flag from female military cadets, an unprecedented act, and her walk through the National Palace included a pause before Leona Vicario’s portrait — the first time a woman’s image was given equal prominence alongside male leaders there. The celebration, vibrant and diverse, showcased both the longstanding customs and the evolving face of Mexican identity. Vendors sold festive foods and patriotic memorabilia, musical performances heightened the excitement, and a sense of inclusive pride was palpable.
In summary, Sheinbaum’s inaugural Grito was more than a commemoration of the nation’s independence; it was a meaningful assertion of women’s significance in history and society today. Her leadership, symbolism, and explicit recognition of female and indigenous contributors to Mexico’s development offered a vision of a more inclusive national future and inspired reflection on the ongoing struggles for equality and justice.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Independence |
Independencia |
| Indigenous |
Indígena |
| Heroine |
Heroina |
Time to discuss
- Discuss how including female and indigenous figures in national ceremonies could change perceptions about Mexican history and today’s society.
- If you were leading the grito, who would you highlight?
- How might President Sheinbaum’s actions inspire social change or greater gender equality in Mexico?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- In what ways does celebrating historical events affect how societies address current issues, and what role should leaders play in this?
- What role do celebrations like this play in a country's identity and history?
