Ciudad Juárez.- Today marks the 108th anniversary of the promulgation of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States of 1917. Various educational institutions will hold events to commemorate this significant date, according to Maurilio Fuentes Estrada, the undersecretary of Education for the Northern Zone. Despite the importance of this occasion, many students remain oblivious to its significance. Interviewed by El Diario, elementary and middle school students were asked if they knew what was being celebrated on February 5 and what the Constitution meant to them. Shockingly, three out of five elementary students and two out of five middle school students admitted they had no knowledge of the Constitution or the reasons for its celebration.
The Constitution of 1917 arose from the revolutionary movement initiated in 1910. It aimed to establish a legal framework to guarantee social and political rights, as explained by historian Francisco Javier Luévano de la Rosa, who teaches at the Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua. He noted it was promulgated in Querétaro by then-president Venustiano Carranza following the tumultuous period marked by the deaths of key revolutionary figures. One of the Constitution's primary goals was to restrict the power of political and military spheres, thereby consolidizing a fairer system.
Luévano de la Rosa highlights the Constitution's role as a pivotal symbol of the Mexican Revolution. It aspired to bring stability and social justice to the country, featuring important objectives such as reorganizing Congress, regulating presidential succession, and creating a political system to empower the revolutionary family. Nevertheless, the subsequent reality often revealed the persistence of powerful leaders, known as caudillos, who undermined these constitutional provisions.
Since its inception, the Constitution has been modified 256 times, affecting 770 articles, according to data from the Congress of the Union. The presidents responsible for the most reforms include Enrique Peña Nieto, who amended 155 articles, followed by Felipe Calderón Hinojosa with 110 and Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de León with 77 changes. Luévano noted the Constitution's necessity for continual updates, reflecting new realities, yet acknowledged the existing legal gaps necessitating frequent revisions.
While basic education continues to teach about the Constitution, reflection on its impact tends to diminish at higher educational levels. Luévano advocates for enhanced analysis within universities, emphasizing the need for students to critically engage with the Constitution's principles and significance.
"The anniversary of the Constitution serves as a moment to reflect on its role within society, alongside the urgency to bolster its instruction within classrooms. The awareness gap about its contents and meanings underlines the necessity for civic education, equipping new generations with the knowledge necessary for comprehending their legal and political structures," concluded Luévano de la Rosa.
Meanwhile, educational and commemorative events were held across various regions, including Mocorito, where local officials, educators, and students gathered to honor the Constitution. Following the traditional flag-raising ceremony at Plaza Los Tres Grandes, attendees participated in civic events led by local dignitaries. Ilsa Corona, a teacher from the Venustiano Carranza Primary School, eloquently read about the historical significance of this document, highlighting how constitutional rights have become ingrained within the national identity.
Corona mentioned, "The rights outlined within the Constitution are emblematic of our shared values and aspirations, reminding us of our pursuit for greater justice, equality, and social welfare." Following her remarks, students showcased cultural performances, engaging the community and celebrating their heritage.
On this day, events commemorated not only the Constitution itself but also the enduring ideals of justice, liberty, and equality it embodies. The 1917 Constitution stands as not only the country's fundamental law but also as a narrative of the Mexican people's struggle for rights and recognition.
The recognition of the anniversary serves as more than just tradition; it embodies the continuous battle for democracy and social justice, echoing through generations. It strengthens the call for educational initiatives focused on civics, ensuring future citizens understand the significance of the rights and responsibilities enshrined within the Constitution.
Through this collective remembrance, Mexico continues to uphold the legacy of the Constitution and the ideals it fought to secure, inviting reflection upon historical struggles and the unwavering spirit of its people. The Constitution remains a living document, reflecting the aspirations of citizens and guiding the nation forward, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and vigor to uphold democratic principles.