Claudia Sheinbaum Leads Her First Military Parade as Mexico’s President

Web Editor

September 16, 2025

a man in uniform standing at a podium in front of a crowd of people in uniform and a man in a milita

Background on Claudia Sheinbaum

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is a Mexican politician and scientist, currently serving as the Head of Government (equivalent to Mayor) of Mexico City. She assumed office on November 18, 2018, succeeding Marcelo Ebrard. Before her political career, Sheinbaum was a prominent researcher in environmental science and engineering. Her expertise in these fields has been instrumental in shaping Mexico City’s policies on environmental protection and sustainability.

The Significance of the Military Parade

On September 16, at precisely 10:00 AM, the Civil-Military Parade commenced to celebrate Mexico’s 215th Independence Day anniversary. This event marked a historic moment as Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, led the parade as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

Parade Route

  • 5 de Mayo Street
  • Central Avenue
  • Juarez Avenue
  • Paseo de la Reforma

The Mexico City Government announced alternative road routes due to several streets being closed for the parade commemorating the 215th anniversary of Mexico’s Independence movement, from Zocalo to Campo Marte.

Key Figures in the Parade

General of Division Francisco Jesús Leana Ojeda, the Commander of the Mexican Army, led the Military Parade.

Historical Context

The Civil-Military Parade has been a tradition since its first occurrence on September 16, 1918. Initially led by President Venustiano Carranza along with his cabinet, members of the legislative and judicial powers, as well as the diplomatic corps, it has evolved to symbolize national unity and pride.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Claudia Sheinbaum? Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is Mexico’s current Head of Government (Mayor) of Mexico City, a prominent politician and former researcher in environmental science and engineering.
  • Why is this parade significant? This Civil-Military Parade marks a historic moment as Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, leads the event as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
  • What is the parade route? The parade will pass through 5 de Mayo Street, Central Avenue, Juarez Avenue, and Paseo de la Reforma due to road closures for the event.
  • Who led the Military Parade? General of Division Francisco Jesús Leana Ojeda, the Commander of the Mexican Army, led the Military Parade.
  • When did this parade tradition begin? The Civil-Military Parade has been a tradition since its first occurrence on September 16, 1918.