Sheinbaum takes part in first Independence Day military parade as Mexican president

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum became the first female leader to preside over Mexico’s independence celebrations in 215 years, with a message that she won’t accept foreign intervention. Sheinbaum led a traditional ceremony from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City known as the “grito,” or “shout” in English, Monday night.

It’s an annual tradition when on September 15, the president rings a bell marking the call to arms during the 1810-1821 fight to win independence from Spain. Independence Day is formally celebrated September 16, but the “grito” ceremony has been performed the night before for over a century.