How Ifigenia Martínez Witnessed Her Life's Work Come Full Circle

In the early days of October, the halls of Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies were awash in a somber, reverent silence. The distinguished figure of Ifigenia Martha Martínez y Hernández, a woman who spent her lifetime challenging inequality and fighting for democracy, had passed. Her death, on October 5, marked the end of an era for Mexico’s political left and cast a spotlight on a lifetime of pioneering efforts that helped shape the fabric of Mexico’s political, academic, and civil institutions.

Few in the country have embodied the ideals of justice, equality, and tireless reform as fully as Martínez. Her prolific career bridged the worlds of politics, academia, and diplomacy, leaving behind a powerful legacy of change that many would not have imagined possible decades ago. Her final act—presenting the Presidential Sash to Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, just four days before her death—was a poignant culmination of her life’s work. It was a moment that Martínez, who had long advocated for equality and representation, witnessed with what those closest to her described as a profound sense of accomplishment.

Martínez’s intellectual legacy is as formidable as her political one. Her early academic work in economics brought a rigorous analysis to the issue of income inequality in Mexico, a subject that was often glossed over or viewed as insurmountable. Her studies on the unequal distribution of wealth were some of the first to quantify Mexico’s staggering economic disparities, and her recommendations for reform remain as relevant today as they were decades ago. As both an academic and legislator, she ardently believed that data-driven policy was crucial to achieving a fairer society.

Her analysis on income distribution became foundational, setting the stage for the kind of economic discourse that highlighted the need for robust public policy and intervention. It wasn't merely a theoretical exercise; Martínez's insights laid bare the structural inequities that kept millions of Mexicans in poverty, galvanizing movements for reform. The metrics she developed are still used by economists to assess income inequality, underlining how lasting her impact has been on the discourse surrounding poverty and wealth in Mexico.

In the political arena, Martínez’s commitment to democracy and social justice was unyielding. As one of the most influential members of Mexico’s left, she was celebrated not only for her advocacy but also for her unwavering consistency. Her career spanned more than six decades, during which she navigated a rapidly changing political landscape without ever abandoning her core beliefs. She was a tireless proponent of pluralism and dialogue, consistently seeking common ground with political opponents even while advocating passionately for her ideals.

Her legislative work often centered around the rights of Mexico’s most vulnerable. She sought to build a society where all citizens could live in dignity, something she pursued not only through policy but also through her actions and alliances. For Martínez, politics was a vehicle for elevating those voices that often went unheard. Her steadfast focus on consensus and cooperation earned her admiration across the political spectrum, making her a trusted figure even among her critics.

Martínez's achievements are particularly remarkable given the societal norms she confronted. When she began her political career, Mexico’s political sphere was overwhelmingly male, and the idea of a woman holding significant political influence was seen as exceptional, even revolutionary. Over the years, Martínez not only broke down barriers but also helped build pathways for future generations of women leaders.

Her association with Claudia Sheinbaum, who became Mexico's first female president on October 1, is emblematic of this legacy. Both women hail from Mexico’s political left, and both have been unwavering in their dedication to advancing the causes of equality and justice. Martínez’s decision to step forward and present the Presidential Sash to Sheinbaum—signifying a woman of the people transferring power to a fellow champion of social justice—was steeped in symbolism. It was the fulfillment of her lifelong commitment to equality and a triumph over centuries of male-dominated governance.

Martínez’s passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from across Mexico’s political and intellectual communities. Her fellow legislators paid their respects in a solemn session at the Chamber of Deputies, where they celebrated her as an exemplar of dedication to democracy. Sergio Carlos Gutiérrez Luna, a member of the ruling Morena party, expressed the sentiment shared by many when he called her "the greatest historical leader of the Mexican left."

Her colleagues filed past the platform, each taking a moment to honor the woman whose influence on Mexican politics was matched only by her humility and commitment to consensus. Ricardo Monreal, president of the Political Coordination Board, highlighted her lasting impact on the country, calling her "a woman ahead of her time, a woman who opened doors." He referred to the speech Martínez had written for Sheinbaum's inauguration—a speech she did not live to read. The speech, however, stands as her final testament, reflecting a legacy that transcends generations.

The Economist Who Reshaped Mexican Politics

Ifigenia Martínez was born into an era when few Mexican women pursued advanced studies, much less in a male-dominated field like economics. Despite these obstacles, she emerged as a trailblazer, embarking on a path that would mark her as one of Mexico's most accomplished public intellectuals. Martínez studied Political Economy at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where she developed a deep understanding of Mexico's economic challenges and the Latin American region's complexities.

Her academic journey didn't stop there. Martínez became the first Mexican woman to earn a master’s degree from Harvard University, a monumental achievement in a time when Latin American representation, particularly among women, was rare in Ivy League institutions. At Harvard, she honed her analytical skills and developed a global perspective on economics, a discipline that would guide her through her career and enable her to help reshape Mexico’s role in the Latin American economy.

In 1950, Martínez co-founded the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL), a pioneering institution dedicated to researching and developing strategies to foster economic growth in Latin America. This was not just an academic endeavor; CEPAL became a critical policy and advisory body that reshaped economic theories and strategies across Latin America. Martínez’s involvement in CEPAL positioned her as an essential contributor to the economic thought in Latin America, and her insights played a foundational role in influencing the region’s economic policies for decades to come.

Her intellectual prowess was further demonstrated as she joined the faculty of the National School of Economics, where she taught Public Finance. This wasn’t simply an academic exercise; Martínez’s lectures laid out the framework for analyzing fiscal policies that would directly impact Mexico’s economic stability. She also taught at the Center for Latin American Monetary Studies (CEMLA), a unique institution focusing on regional monetary cooperation, and contributed her expertise to Mexico’s burgeoning field of economic research.

In addition to her academic achievements, Martínez’s contributions to education were transformative. As the director of the National School of Economics at UNAM, she was instrumental in establishing the Division of Higher Studies, which laid the foundation for what would later become the Faculty of Economics. This move was strategic, creating a more structured and rigorous academic program for future economists and policymakers.

Her commitment to education extended beyond curriculum changes. Martínez became an outspoken advocate for university autonomy during one of Mexico's most tumultuous social movements—the 1968 Student Movement. When the Mexican government deployed the military to Ciudad Universitaria, the heart of the UNAM campus, in response to student protests, Martínez emerged as a leading voice defending the independence of academic institutions. This stance cemented her role as a defender of academic freedom, a position that would later bolster her influence in educational policy.

Martínez’s political career began to take shape as she took on influential advisory roles within the Mexican government. She was appointed as an advisor to the Secretariat of Public Education under Jaime Torres Bodet, where she contributed to the landmark 11-Year Plan for the Extension and Improvement of Primary Education. This program aimed to expand and elevate the quality of primary education in Mexico, underscoring her belief in the transformative power of education for national development.

In the economic sphere, Martínez served as the coordinator of advisors to the Secretary of Finance and Public Credit, Antonio Ortiz Mena. Her counsel during this period was pivotal in formulating fiscal strategies that would impact Mexico’s national budget and financial planning. Later, she assumed the role of Director of Programming and Administrative Decentralization at the Secretariat of Finance, a position that allowed her to spearhead projects aimed at improving administrative efficiency in public finance. Her efforts toward decentralization and her advocacy for economic independence resonated with policymakers and cemented her as a voice of authority in financial strategy.

Martínez’s expertise and reputation eventually led her to the international stage. In 1980, President José López Portillo appointed her as Mexico’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. In this role, Martínez skillfully navigated the complex world of international diplomacy, advocating for Mexico’s interests in global discussions on economic development, social issues, and human rights. Her presence at the UN represented a new chapter for Mexican women in diplomacy, as she became one of the most visible figures advocating for Latin American perspectives in global policymaking.

In the 1980s, Martínez’s political philosophy evolved as she grew increasingly critical of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), the dominant party that she once represented. In 1988, she co-founded the Corriente Democrática (Democratic Current) with notable figures such as Cuauhtémoc Cárdenas and Porfirio Muñoz Ledo, an act that would catalyze significant shifts in Mexican politics. The Corriente Democrática was born from dissatisfaction with the PRI's undemocratic practices, and it called for more transparent elections and accountability in government.

This movement eventually led to the founding of the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) in 1989, establishing a formidable opposition to the PRI. Martínez’s break with the PRI marked her as a reformist, challenging the status quo and setting the stage for a more competitive political environment in Mexico. Her election as the first senator from the Federal District representing an opposition party symbolized a new era in Mexican politics and underscored her role as a trailblazer for democratic reforms.

Dawn of Female Leadership in Mexico

The legacy of Ifigenia Martínez y Hernández spans more than just a storied career in academia, politics, and diplomacy. Until her passing on October 5, 2024, Martínez represented an unyielding pursuit of economic justice, democracy, and equality in Mexico—a journey that culminated in her role as president of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Deputies in the LXVI Legislature. With an influence that permeated the realms of economics, education, politics, and international relations, Martínez’s story is one of relentless dedication to reshaping Mexico into a fairer and more progressive nation.

From her early days in academia to her leadership in political reform, Martínez carved a path that set her apart as one of Mexico’s most formidable public figures. A pivotal moment in her political trajectory came in 1997 when she was elected as a federal deputy in the LVI Legislature. Later, her political acumen and vision caught the attention of Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who appointed her as the Economic Coordinator for his presidential campaign in 2000. Her expertise in economic policy and fiscal planning added gravitas to López Obrador’s platform, and her participation brought a nuanced understanding of economic justice to the fore of the leftist agenda.

Her return to Congress as a deputy in the LXI Legislature further solidified her standing within the leftist movement. In an unprecedented step, she became the first woman from the left to take the constitutional oath in Congress as President of the Board of Deans, symbolizing a significant breakthrough for female representation within a traditionally male-dominated sphere.

In 2016, Martínez played a critical role in one of Mexico’s most transformative political shifts: the reform of the Federal District and the establishment of Mexico City’s first constitution. As a deputy in the Constituent Assembly, Martínez was instrumental in drafting a constitution that enshrined the rights of Mexico City’s citizens and sought to address pressing social issues such as labor rights, gender equality, and environmental protection. Her work on the constitution marked her as a visionary advocate for local governance and a fierce defender of civil rights, underscoring her dedication to the democratic process and her insistence on the need for a more inclusive political framework.

Parallel to her political life, Martínez remained deeply committed to academic and intellectual pursuits. Her seminal work, The Distribution of Income and the Economic Development of Mexico (1960), remains a cornerstone of Mexican economic literature. The study addressed the inequalities in wealth distribution and highlighted the profound challenges facing Mexico’s economic development—issues that remain relevant today.

Her expertise as an economist was widely acknowledged; she was a prolific columnist for El Universal and maintained a presence in the public discourse on economic and social policies. She also served as a member of the General Advisory Council of UNICEF, demonstrating her commitment to global standards in education, health, and welfare for children, and underscoring her belief in the universal right to equitable economic opportunities.

Martínez’s contributions earned her numerous accolades, underscoring her influence and impact across sectors. She received the “National Economics Award” from the National Bank of Mexico, the “Doctorate Honoris Causa” from the University of Guadalajara and the University of Guerrero, and the prestigious Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz Medal from the Chamber of Deputies. The Mexican Senate even named the Protocol Room of the Board of Directors after her, a testament to her lasting impact on the nation’s governance. In 2021, Martínez received the “Belisario Domínguez Medal,” one of Mexico’s highest honors, awarded by the Senate for exceptional contributions to the nation.

Her legacy as a trailblazer for women extended into her tenure as a senator for Morena in the LXIV and LXV Legislatures, where she chaired the Board of Deans. She advocated tirelessly for gender equality, and her influence on policies addressing women’s rights helped pave the way for the progressive laws and reforms that have since been adopted. Her commitment to advancing the role of women in politics was deeply personal, stemming from her own battles as one of the first women in Mexican political leadership.

Perhaps the crowning moment of Martínez’s career came in her final public act: overseeing the transfer of presidential power to Claudia Sheinbaum, the first woman elected as President of Mexico. Martínez’s words during the ceremonial passing of the presidential sash captured the poignancy of this historic moment. “I, who have fought so many battles for democracy and justice, feel deeply honored to witness this triumph,” she remarked. “Not only do we have a female president, but we also see a present where women participate on equal terms in the construction of possible and desirable futures for our country. It is time for high-mindedness. It is time to build new horizons and realities. It is time for women.”

These words not only symbolized her pride in the progress made for gender equality but also highlighted her lifetime dedication to advocating for democracy, justice, and equity. It was a fitting end to a career defined by courage and a constant push against the boundaries of what was deemed possible for women in Mexican politics.

Mexico Inaugurates First Female President

In a historic ceremony held at the Legislative Palace of San Lázaro, Deputy Ifigenia Martínez Hernández, President of the Chamber of Deputies, delivered a stirring statement that marked an epochal moment in Mexican politics—the inauguration of Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo as Mexico’s first female President. Addressing the assembled legislators and citizens, Martínez spoke with the authority of a leader who has witnessed, and contributed to, Mexico’s decades-long struggle for democratic reform and gender equality. Her words reverberated as a testament to the generations of women who have tirelessly pursued justice, equality, and a voice in Mexico’s political arena.

“This is a moment that marks a before and after in our history,” Martínez began, speaking in the solemn hall where key decisions affecting the lives of millions of Mexicans have been deliberated for decades. The installation of Sheinbaum as president, Martínez noted, is more than just a political milestone—it is the culmination of a movement that has defined her own life and career, as well as those of countless women whose collective perseverance has pushed Mexican society toward broader inclusivity and equality.

Reflecting on her own experiences, Martínez recalled her involvement in the left-wing Corriente Democrática (Democratic Current) in 1988, a movement that sought democratic reform within the long-standing Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). It was a time when challenging the political establishment carried significant personal and professional risks. The Democratic Current ultimately gave rise to the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), which advocated for transparency, accountability, and equality in government. “I myself, who have fought so many battles for democracy and justice, feel deeply honored to witness this historic triumph,” she said, her voice resonating with the weight of decades of activism.

Martínez’s remarks underscored how Sheinbaum’s presidency represents a triumph not just for her party, but for all Mexican women. Sheinbaum’s election embodies a hard-won victory achieved through the collective efforts of generations who have dismantled barriers, challenged societal expectations, and pushed for women’s full inclusion in the political realm. The symbolism of this moment was not lost on Martínez. “Not only do we have a female President,” she emphasized, “but we also see a present where women participate on equal terms in building possible and desirable futures for our country.”

By standing beside Sheinbaum as she donned the Presidential Sash, Martínez fulfilled a symbolic and deeply meaningful role in the transfer of executive power, asserting that women’s leadership is not merely a historical footnote but a new and transformative norm. Martínez’s presence affirmed that Mexico has arrived at a juncture where women’s contributions are not the exception, but rather an integral part of the country’s forward movement.

Martínez extended heartfelt gratitude to her colleagues in Congress, expressing how profoundly honored she was to carry out the symbolic act of transferring power. “This represents not only a turning point in history but also the triumph of our values: equality, justice, and democracy.” These words underscored Martínez’s lifelong commitment to principles that have driven her career as an academic, economist, and lawmaker. Her advocacy has spanned decades, but the challenges she has helped to address—inequality, lack of representation, and economic disparity—continue to shape Mexico’s evolving identity.

Through her remarks, Martínez reinforced a powerful message: that the fight for a “free and egalitarian Mexico” is for everyone. With her trademark humility and clarity, she declared that the pursuit of justice and equality transcends all distinctions of gender, class, and condition. In doing so, she invited all Mexicans, regardless of political affiliation, to unite in support of a new vision for the country.

Recognizing the divisive nature of contemporary politics, Martínez made a poignant call for unity. She urged Mexico’s political leaders and citizens alike to “build bridges between all political forces, discuss our differences, and build, together, a more just and supportive country.” Her words were a reminder that Mexico’s diversity of opinion and experience, rather than a source of division, should serve as a foundation for constructive dialogue. With these sentiments, Martínez set the tone for Sheinbaum’s presidency, framing it as an era that calls for compromise and collaboration to achieve shared goals.

Her call for unity reflects Martínez’s own legacy of working across ideological lines to achieve substantive change. It is a legacy rooted in a recognition that progress comes not through division but through collective purpose—a message that could resonate powerfully as Sheinbaum steps into her role as President.

As she concluded her address, Martínez left no doubt about the transformative nature of this historic moment. “It is time for high-mindedness,” she declared. “It is time to build new horizons and realities. It is time for women.” In these words, she captured the spirit of a movement that has gathered momentum across decades, one defined by resilience, resolve, and a determination to break down barriers. Her call to action was directed not only to women but to all Mexicans—to continue the work of crafting a nation that reflects its people’s shared dreams for justice and equality.

Martínez’s words emphasized that Sheinbaum’s ascent is not the final destination but a new beginning. It is an opportunity to set higher standards for Mexican leadership, one where the values of inclusivity, empathy, and vision guide decision-making and foster a future in which all voices are heard and respected.

It Is Time for Women

Deputy Ifigenia Martínez’s involvement in the inauguration of Mexico’s first female President is a testament to her enduring impact on the nation. Her career has been defined by her ability to balance academic rigor, economic insight, and political activism—a rare combination that has allowed her to contribute meaningfully to Mexico’s evolution over decades. As a leader, Martínez has left an indelible mark, having paved the way for women’s inclusion in politics, championed economic justice, and upheld democratic values at every stage of her career.

Her role in this historic transition of power is a fitting tribute to her lifetime of service. Through her words and actions, Martínez’s legacy will endure as a beacon of hope and possibility, inspiring future generations to continue the work she began so many years ago. As Mexico enters a new era with Sheinbaum at the helm, Martínez’s vision of a fair and egalitarian society remains a guiding force, a reminder of what is possible when courage, conviction, and compassion lead the way.

With this landmark inauguration, Mexico signals to the world that it is ready for a new kind of leadership—one in which the values of equality, justice, and unity stand as pillars of a brighter, more inclusive future. As Martínez concluded, “Let us continue leaving our mark.” In her final words, she issued a challenge and an invitation to all Mexicans, urging them to take up the mantle of progress and to help write the next chapter of Mexico’s storied journey toward democracy and equality.

In-text Citation: (Bahena, 2024, pp. 7-11)