Mexican Constitution Day is celebrated on 5 February every year. This date commemorates the promulgation of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States in 1917.
The 1917 Constitution is Mexico’s magna carta and is the result of the efforts of revolutionary leaders who sought to establish a legal framework that reflected the ideals of the Mexican Revolution.
The 1917 Constitution addresses a variety of issues, including labour rights, land ownership, church-state separation, education and individual rights.
It is considered one of the most advanced constitutions of its time and has undergone several reforms over the years to adapt to the changing needs and circumstances of the country.
5 February is a public holiday in Mexico, and civic events and ceremonies are held throughout the country to commemorate the importance of the Constitution in Mexico’s history and legal structure.
Innovations of the Mexican Constitution of 1917
The Political Constitution of the United Mexican States of 1917 represented a major transformation with respect to the Constitution of 1857.
Some of the main innovations introduced in the 1917 Constitution compared to the 1857 Constitution are highlighted below:
- Labour Rights: The 1917 Constitution included a chapter dedicated to labour rights, establishing provisions on working hours, minimum wage, right to strike and working conditions.
This was a response to workers’ demands during the Mexican Revolution.
- Agrarian Reform: The new Constitution incorporated principles related to agrarian reform and the equitable distribution of land.
It established the possibility of expropriating land for public utility purposes, and promoted the creation of ejidos and agrarian communities.
- Secularism: Although the 1857 Constitution already established church-state separation, the 1917 Constitution reinforced these principles, further limiting church intervention in political and educational affairs.
- Social Rights: The 1917 Constitution expanded the protection of social rights, recognising the right to health, housing and education.
It also introduced provisions for the protection of the rights of workers and indigenous communities.
- Social Justice System: Provisions were included for the creation of a social justice system, seeking to guarantee equality and justice for all citizens.
- Nationalisation of Natural Resources: The 1917 Constitution granted the State ownership of natural resources, including oil, and established the basis for the nationalisation of the oil industry.
- Executive Power and Presidential Term: Adjustments were made to the powers of the President of the Republic, and a four-year presidential term was established without the possibility of immediate re-election.
These are some of the most significant innovations introduced by the 1917 Constitution compared to its predecessor, the 1857 Constitution.
These reforms reflected the social, political and economic transformations that took place during the Mexican Revolution.
How is Mexican Constitution Day celebrated?
Celebrations usually include civic events, official ceremonies, parades and educational activities. Some of these include:
- Official ceremonies: In various localities, official ceremonies are held with the participation of government authorities, army representatives, community leaders and citizens.
These ceremonies usually take place in civic squares or emblematic spaces.
- Parades: In some cities, parades are held to commemorate Constitution Day. These parades may include the participation of schools, musical bands, cultural groups and civic organisations.
- School Activities: In schools, educational activities are held to highlight the importance of the Constitution and promote civic awareness among students.
Talks, competitions, theatrical performances and other educational initiatives may take place.
- Cultural Events: In some localities, cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, plays or film screenings, are organised to commemorate Constitution Day.
- Raising of the Flag: The raising of the Mexican flag is a common tradition in civic celebrations. On this occasion, it is held with special significance to commemorate the promulgation of the Constitution.
- Citizen Participation: Citizens can also celebrate individually or as a community, whether by attending public events, flying the flag at home, or reflecting on the importance of the Constitution and their rights.
It is important to note that the way in which Constitution Day is celebrated may vary in different regions of the country, and the scale of the celebrations may depend on local and national factors.
The celebration seeks to promote patriotism, respect for constitutional principles and citizen participation in Mexico’s civic life.
And what plan do you have for Constitution Day? Come celebrate this and other special days with us!
Remember! At Taqueria de Birra we are experts in tacos and Mexican food since 1989, so if you want to try some tacos and experience the authentic Mexican atmosphere, we invite you to come to our premises in C/ Don Pedro, 11 and Plaza de las Comendadoras, 2.
