Mexico City Congress Honors Federal and Local Constitutions in Solemn Session
Mexico City, February 5 – The Mexico City Congress today held a solemn session to commemorate two pivotal moments in Mexican legal and political history: the 109th anniversary of the promulgation of the 1917 Political Constitution of the United Mexican States and the ninth anniversary of the capital’s own Magna Carta. The event brought together legislators from across the political spectrum to reflect on the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of these foundational documents.
Reflections on the Federal Constitution of 1917
Deputy Gerardo González García, representing the MORENA Parliamentary Group, emphasized that the 1917 Magna Carta serves as the bedrock of social justice, equality, and democracy in Mexico. He asserted that its spirit remains vibrant within the capital, guiding actions that safeguard rights and enhance the lives of its citizens.
In contrast, Congresswoman Lizzette Salgado Viramontes, speaking on behalf of the PAN Bloc, expressed concerns about what she described as a weakening of the balance of powers, the dissolution of autonomous bodies, the deterioration of the healthcare system, and the abandonment of a previously more effective economic model. Salgado Viramontes questioned whether the Federal Political Constitution is still charting the necessary course for the nation, particularly in light of ongoing reform proposals.
Legislator Manuel Talayero Pariente, Coordinator of the PVEM Parliamentary Group, highlighted the promulgation of both Constitutions in 1917 and 2017 as two crucial junctures in the democratic, social, and legal evolution of the country and its capital. He underscored that the Federal Magna Carta incorporates the liberal ideals of the 1857 Constitution and the social vision of the Mexican Revolution. He also noted the local Constitution’s role in ensuring these ideals permeate the legal framework, with current Head of Government Clara Brugada Molina and President of the local Congress’s Board of Directors Jesús Sesma Suárez having participated in its drafting as constituents.
Deputy Miriam Saldaña Cháirez underscored the Magna Carta’s recognition as the first social constitution of the 20th century, attributing to it profound historical significance as a convergence point for major transformations in national life. She added that, as a direct outcome of the Mexican Revolution, the Federal Magna Carta was groundbreaking in incorporating social rights such as agrarian reform, dignified labor, and secular and free education, thereby redefining the relationship between the State and society.
From the Donceles Tribune, Deputy Royfid Torres González acknowledged the significant challenges that persist, noting that many rights enshrined in the 1917 Constitution have yet to be fully guaranteed. The Coordinator of Movimiento Ciudadano affirmed that his parliamentary group is committed to building robust institutions through proposals aimed at substantially improving the daily lives of all Mexicans.
Legislator Omar Alejandro García Loria, speaking for the PRI, asserted that the 1917 Constitution was not an improvised document but rather the legal embodiment of a revolution that recognized the indispensable role of institutions in achieving true justice. He reminded the assembly that it incorporated social rights including public education, dignified work, social land ownership, and the State’s guiding role in national development.
The Capital’s Magna Carta: A Living, Progressive Instrument
Deputy Nora Arias Contreras, Coordinator of the PRD, characterized the Mexico City Constitution as the culmination of a historical demand and an extensive democratic struggle driven by social movements, academics, and civil organizations. She reiterated her commitment to defending it as a living, progressive, and fundamental instrument for the city’s life.
Taking the floor, Legislator Alejandro Carbajal González stated that this day commemorates the emergence of a living document that has shaped the nation’s destiny. Representing the Progressive Parliamentary Association for Transformation, he emphasized its role as a progressive beacon that spurred reforms for the nationalization of subsoil resources, land distribution, protection of labor rights, and guaranteed secular education.
Deputy Leticia Haro Jiménez, from the Parliamentary Association of Women for Feminist and Inclusive Trade, concluded by remarking that both Constitutions are united by a shared aspiration for social justice, human dignity, and the establishment of a State dedicated to serving its people.
The solemn session underscored the ongoing importance of these foundational legal texts in shaping Mexico’s present and future, while also highlighting the diverse interpretations and challenges associated with their implementation.
Source: https://www.congresocdmx.gob.mx/comsoc-reconocen-congreso-cdmx-aportes-constitucion-politica-federal-y-carta-magna-capitalina-7029-1.html
