Mexico City – On October 1, 2024, Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the first female president of Mexico. Her inauguration at the Congress of the Union in Mexico City marked a pivotal moment for gender representation in Mexican politics. The day was declared a national holiday, allowing citizens to celebrate this landmark achievement together.
Sheinbaum, accompanied by her husband, arrived in a white, hand-embroidered outfit, symbolizing her commitment to integrity and unity. In her inaugural speech, she honored her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and highlighted the shared victory of all Mexican women. “I did not arrive here alone; we all arrived,” she proclaimed, reflecting on the progress toward gender equality.
A trained physicist and energy engineer, Sheinbaum is recognized for her work in climate action and social justice. Her political career, shaped by progressive values, includes roles as the head of government for Mexico City and Secretary of the Environment. She was a key contributor to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and has been an outspoken advocate for renewable energy and environmental sustainability. She is also known for her dedication to modernizing urban infrastructure and addressing social inequality.
As president, Sheinbaum faces significant challenges, including violence, organized crime, and women’s rights. Yet, she is determined to build a prosperous and just future for all Mexicans, pledging, “I will not let you down.” Her leadership promises to continue the national movement toward sustainable development and social justice.
This inauguration marks the beginning of a new chapter for Mexico, one of hope, progress, and opportunity for all Mexicans, especially women, who now see themselves represented at the highest level of leadership.