President Claudia Sheinbaum rides through the annual Independence Day military parade, in Mexico City, Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025..
Mexico marked a historic milestone as President Claudia Sheinbaum became the first woman to preside over Independence Day celebrations in 215 years. Her leadership was highlighted by a powerful declaration: Mexico will not tolerate foreign intervention.
The statement holds weight as Mexico faces ongoing pressure from the United States over cartel violence and border security.
A Historic “Grito” From the National Palace
On the night of September 15, Sheinbaum stepped onto the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City. She led the iconic “grito” ceremony, a symbolic “shout” commemorating the call to arms that launched Mexico’s independence war against Spain in 1810.
Each year, the president rings a bell during the ceremony, honoring the start of the nation’s fight for freedom. The ritual has been performed annually on the eve of Independence Day for more than a century.
Sheinbaum’s presence marked a groundbreaking moment, not only as the country’s first female president but also as a leader reaffirming Mexico’s sovereignty in front of thousands.
Independence Day Parade in Mexico City
The formal celebrations continued on September 16 with the traditional military parade along Reforma Avenue.
Troops marched in formation. Fighter jets streaked across the sky with contrails in the green, white, and red colors of Mexico’s flag. Children watched proudly from the sidewalks as the capital came alive with patriotic spirit.
Sheinbaum rode through the city as commander-in-chief, receiving cheers from citizens and salutes from soldiers. In her address, she reinforced a clear message: “No foreign power makes decisions for us.”
Firm Words on Sovereignty
Later, in a speech before her Cabinet and thousands of soldiers, Sheinbaum stressed that “no interference is possible in our homeland.”
Though she avoided naming any country, her message came at a sensitive time. Washington has pressed Mexico to take tougher measures against cartels and to tighten border security.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump even floated the idea of sending American troops to fight cartels, which his government labeled as terrorist groups. Sheinbaum has firmly rejected that suggestion.
Mexico’s Stand Against U.S. Pressure
Despite her resistance to foreign involvement, Sheinbaum’s government has pursued cartels more aggressively than her predecessor.
Dozens of high-profile cartel members have been extradited to the United States. Authorities also highlight a drop in fentanyl seizures along the U.S.-Mexico border, presenting it as proof of effective domestic action.
Yet, Sheinbaum insists these moves serve Mexico’s national interest, not American demands. “We act because it’s right for Mexico,” she has repeatedly stated, making sovereignty the heart of her policy.
People watch fireworks during the Independence Day celebration at the Zocalo, Mexico City’s main square, Monday, Sept. 15, 2025.
A New Era in Mexican Politics
Sheinbaum assumed office in October, breaking barriers as the first woman to hold Mexico’s presidency. Her leadership during the Independence Day events underscored both symbolic and political shifts in the nation’s history.
By combining tradition with bold messaging, she showcased her commitment to protecting Mexico’s independence while navigating tense relations with Washington.
As Mexico moves forward, Sheinbaum’s historic role in the 2025 Independence Day celebrations will be remembered as a defining moment. It symbolized not only national pride but also a renewed stand for sovereignty in a changing global landscape.
