Cozumel Marks 175th Anniversary of Andrés Quintana Roo

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Cozumel officials and students gathered for a civic ceremony marking the 175th anniversary of the death of Andrés Quintana Roo, the Mexican independence figure for whom the state is named.

Mayor José Luis Chacón Méndez emphasized that education and youth development remain his administration’s priorities, stating that such civic events honor those who fought for Mexico’s freedom. The ceremony took place at Andrés Quintana Roo General Secondary School No. 8 with participation from the educational community.

First councilman Alejandro Mattar Pérez represented the mayor, accompanying municipal treasurer Javier Ricardo Villanueva Catzim, who delivered the ceremony’s keynote address. Villanueva Catzim noted that commemorating Quintana Roo goes beyond remembrance—it represents an exercise in identity, reflection, and commitment to the values that founded the nation. He recognized Quintana Roo as a prominent lawyer, politician, writer, and defender of Mexican independence.

During the event, students paid honors to the Mexican flag. First-grade student Melany Guadalupe Valdéz Novelo led the Pledge to the Flag, while second-grade student Elizabeth Angulo recited poetry dedicated to Quintana Roo, highlighting his historical legacy and contribution to building a free Mexico.

School principal Anny Beatriz Almeida Cetina thanked attendees and stressed the importance of remembering Quintana Roo’s legacy. She emphasized that being liberal requires commitment, courage, and conviction—values that should remain relevant in educating new generations.

Officials noted that Quintana Roo’s thinking was guided by ideals of justice, freedom, and sovereignty, a legacy that continues to influence Mexican institutions and public life. They urged students to prepare themselves, work hard, and act with integrity to build a more just, equitable, and supportive country, while also acknowledging teachers’ role in forming conscious and committed citizens.

Representatives from local military units, municipal authorities, and teaching staff attended the event, which aimed to strengthen civic values and national identity among students.