On Monday, March 17, 2025, Mexico will commemorate the 219th anniversary of the birth of Benito Juárez, resulting in a mandatory holiday for schools and most workplaces across the country. The Federal Labor Law (LFT) has designated this day as non-working, meaning public offices and many private businesses will cease operations. The national observance not only celebrates Juárez’s significant influence on Mexican history but also impacts the financial sector, leading to widespread bank closures.
According to the National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV), on this date, most banks will not serve the public through their traditional branches. The only bank operating regularly will be Banco Azteca, which will open its doors from 9 AM to 9 PM. Even though bank branches will be closed, residents can still access funds through the nation’s extensive network of over 64,000 ATMs and around 57,000 banking correspondents, who will continue to facilitate transactions, and mobile banking services will operate as usual.
This celebration of Juárez is not only of cultural significance but also linked to labor rights within the framework of the LFT. For those required to work on March 17, 2025, the law mandates special compensation. Specifically, Article 75 of the LFT states, "Workers who provide services on March 17 must receive, besides their regular salary, additional payment equivalent to double their salary for the hours worked," effectively yielding triple the salary for those employees. This policy ensures fair remuneration for those who forego their holiday rest.
Educational institutions will also join the observance, as schools will suspend classes, allowing students to enjoy what is termed the first "mega-long weekend" of the year. Students will have the day off from March 17, returning to their studies on Tuesday, March 18, following the celebratory weekend.
Employers are expected to comply diligently with Labor Laws, and the rights of employees are protected under these regulations. Should employees not see proper compensation reflected on their pay stubs post-holiday work, they are advised to file complaints with the Federal Labor Defense Attorney’s Office (PROFEDET), which provides legal advice and assists employees facing labor disputes.
The upcoming holiday not only serves as a time for reflection on Juárez’s legacy but also as a reminder of workers’ rights during significant national observances. Citizens are encouraged to remain aware of their entitlements and to address any discrepancies with their employers proactively.
For businesses, the observance affects operations as they align with labor laws. The closure of banks will necessitate planning on behalf of customers who might rely on financial services, as ATMs and mobile banking will still facilitate transactions. Overall, the holiday presents both cultural reverence and practical challenges for many.
Looking forward, Mexico’s calendar includes additional holidays this year, such as Labor Day on May 1, Independence Day on September 16, and the commemoration of the Revolution on the third Monday of November. Each of these holidays will also impact workplace operations and warrant attention from both employees and employers.
With the celebration of Benito Juárez on March 17, Mexicans will not only honor their historical figure but also exercise their rights as workers, fostering awareness and recognition of labor laws across the nation.