On August 19, 2025, Norma Lucía Piña Hernández delivered her final speech as President of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), marking the end of a pivotal era in Mexico’s judicial history. Her address closed the last session of the Court’s current composition, which had operated under the 1994 judicial reform for over three decades.
In a reflective and solemn tone, Piña declared, “La sociedad y la historia juzgarán a quienes hemos juzgado”—“Society and history will judge those of us who have judged”. This powerful statement underscored her belief that the legitimacy of the Court is not defined by internal accolades, but by the enduring impact of its rulings on Mexican society.
She acknowledged the contributions of her fellow justices, including those who will remain in the newly restructured Court, such as Lenia Batres, Loretta Ortiz, and Yasmín Esquivel. Piña emphasized that the Court’s journey had been shaped by “intense debates, fruitful disagreements, and consensus,” which she said had strengthened Mexico’s democracy.
Her speech also paid tribute to the often-unseen labor of judicial staff, praising their dedication to upholding justice behind the scenes. As the country prepares for a new phase—where nine justices will be elected by popular vote under the 2024 reform—Piña’s farewell served as both a closing chapter and a call to preserve the integrity of constitutional justice.
Norma Piña, the first woman to lead the SCJN, leaves behind a legacy of resilience, transparency, and institutional strength. Her final words remind the nation that justice is not a finished product, but a living construct shaped by collective memory and future aspirations.
Source: Animal Politico
