México City – The Mexican flag, one of the most significant symbols of the nation, embodies the diversity, culture, history, and people of Mexico. Each year, on February 24, the country celebrates Día de la Bandera, or Flag Day, a tradition established to honor the nation's identity and history.
The origins of the flag trace back to 1821, when the emperor Agustín de Iturbide tasked tailor José Magdaleno Ocampo with its creation. Ocampo crafted the first tricolor flag with red, green, and white stripes. This early version featured stars on each stripe along with the words “Religión, Independencia, y Unión.” It became known as the Flag of the Three Guarantees.
Despite various modifications over the years, Mexico’s flag has retained its core elements since its adoption in 1822. The present design was finalized on September 16, 1968, consisting of the three colors and the national emblem at its center. The emblem portrays a golden eagle devouring a snake perched atop a cactus, symbolizing the legend surrounding Tenochtitlán's founding.
The formal commemoration of Día de la Bandera began on February 24, 1940, under President Lázaro Cárdenas, as part of efforts to cultivate national pride. Mexico's flag is hoisted at full mast on historical anniversaries, including Constitutional promulgations, the triumph over French forces at Puebla, Independence Day, and other significant events. The flag is also flown at half-mast during national mourning.
During the recent ceremony at Campo Marte, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo underscored the importance of the Mexican flag, stating: “Ya no es como antes, que los gobiernos se arrodillaban ante gobiernos extranjeros, o que miraban fuera como ejemplos a seguir; ahora no, desde que llegó la Transformación al gobierno es claro que reivindicamos que a México se le respeta, que no somos colonia ni protectorado de ningún país.” This reflects her sentiment of Mexico standing strong and proud on the world stage.
She emphasized the unity between the government, the people, and the armed forces, saying, “Nosotros no traicionamos ni a nuestro pueblo, ni a nuestra patria, ni a nuestra bandera. México es un país grandioso y su pueblo es valeroso.” Such declarations aim to remind citizens of their identity and heritage.
Sheinbaum recently proposed amendments to the Constitution to reinforce Mexico’s sovereignty, stating, “La iniciativa establece que el pueblo de México, bajo ninguna circunstancia, aceptará intervenciones, intromisiones o cualquier otro acto desde el extranjero que sea lesivo de la integridad, independencia y soberanía de la nación.” This initiative, focused on protecting the country against foreign interference, aligns with the spirit encapsulated by the flag.
The President highlighted historical figures like José María Morelos and Juan Escutia, emphasizing their contributions and sacrifices linked with the flag’s symbolism. Escutia, who gave his life to protect the flag during the U.S. invasion, is remembered as emblematic of the courage associated with Mexican patriotism.
During the commemoration, Sheinbaum virtually took the oath of allegiance from 1,000 flag bearers from primary and secondary schools across the nation and presented flags to several military units, including the 27th Motorized Cavalry Regiment and the Naval Logistics Base. Such gestures serve as reminders of the flag’s continued relevance.
The celebrations also showcased the flag's role as nurtured by generations. Sheinbaum expressed, “La bandera de México es un documento de historia viva. Al mirarla, las niñas y los niños, las mujeres y los hombres, podemos aprender, recordar y volver a sentir los pasos que nos han traído hasta el presente.” This statement articulates the flag’s role as more than just fabric; it is intertwined with the nation's legacy and aspirations for justice.
The commemoration of Día de la Bandera not only reinvigorates national pride but also serves as a poignant reminder of Mexico’s independence and the heroism of its people throughout history. It is integral to reinforcing the collective identity and respect owed to the motto encapsulated by the national flag.