Introduction
“No people believes in its government. At most, the peoples are resigned.” – Octavio Paz
Today, we commemorate the 215th anniversary of the beginning of Mexico’s independence movement, culminating in 1821 with the iconic embrace at Acatempan.
The celebration of the cry on September 15 has become a historical distortion turned into tradition. Sadly, this year, celebrations were canceled in several localities due to violence.
Historical Context
Key Milestones in Mexico’s Independence and Subsequent History:
- Mexico’s independence began with the First Mexican Empire.
- In 1823, the Federal Republic was established, and until 1855, Mexico experienced intermittent governments, including one led by a president who participated in the U.S. invasion, resulting in Mexico’s territorial mutilation and the separation of Texas. By February 1848, Mexico lost more than half its territory. From nearly five million square kilometers, the country’s extent was reduced to less than two million. The relationship with the United States has been complex and challenging ever since.
- The Laws of Reform, promulgated in the 1850s, eliminated clergy and military privileges, secularized ecclesiastical properties, guaranteed religious freedom, and established the Civil Registry.
- France began intervention in 1861 after suspending debt payments.
- From April 1864 to June 1867, Mexico experienced the Second Mexican Empire.
- Subsequently, Mexico lived through the long Porfiriato period, followed by the Mexican Revolution initiated in 1910.
- In post-revolutionary Mexico, after military governments, a stable development model was constructed, giving rise to the so-called “Mexican Miracle.”
- In the late 20th century, democracy’s transition accelerated in an orderly and concerted manner. Virtually all political forces participated, leading to more equitable and plural competition in the 1997 midterm elections, causing the PRI to lose its majority in the lower chamber and resulting in the first presidential alternance in over 70 years in 2000.
- Despite over two centuries of independence, conflict seems to be our constant. Democratic harmony has become elusive, and the current regime is determined to dismantle it.
Current Challenges
As we approach the midpoint of the 21st century, Mexico faces a profound crisis caused by the current regime. Its most notable features include:
- Oppressive corruption and impunity
- Overwhelming insecurity
- Alarming public debt
- Civil functions’ militarization, such as customs, ports, airports, tourism companies, and infrastructure projects
- Subordination of the Legislative and Judicial powers to the Executive
- Constant polarization
- Control of a significant portion of the national territory by narco-terrorism
Constitutional reforms, born from political whimsy and supported by a dubious majority, have undermined the Constitution’s role as a legal certainty guarantor. Judicial federal and local powers have been distorted, autonomous bodies have disappeared, and institutions built by Mexicans over decades have been weakened.
Call for Action
More than two centuries after independence, we are far from reconstructing a culture of peace and regaining harmonious coexistence. These patriotic days should inspire us to act before our institutions crumble completely.
It’s time to embark on the country and social fabric reconstruction, as well as prioritize loyalty to the Nation above all else.
Let’s continue insisting on the need to open dialogue spaces to restore social fabric and promote a genuine culture of peace.
About the Author
X: @Phmergoldd
Contact: [email protected]
