🔗 Share this article

“Machismo in Mexico is so deeply rooted that not even the president is safe,” declared a professor and feminist, expressing a feeling shared by many women across the nation. This comes after a viral video showed a intoxicated man groping Claudia Sheinbaum as she walked from the presidential residence to the education ministry. Sheinbaum, who has filed a complaint against the assailant, remarked at a press briefing: “If they do this to the leader, what occurs to every other women in the nation?”

Historic Situation Sheds Light on Pervasive Gender-Based Violence

Sheinbaum’s historic role has made this a learning opportunity in a society where unwanted advances and assault on streets and public transport are often accepted and not taken seriously. Meanwhile, political opponents have alleged the incident was orchestrated to shift focus from the recent murder of a city leader, a critic of organized crime. Yet, most women understand that sexual violence need not be staged—research indicate that 50% of Mexican women have experienced it at one time or another in their lifetimes.

Navigating Accessibility and Safety

Sheinbaum, similar to her preceding leader, is known for wading into crowds, shaking hands, and taking photos. It was during such an encounter that she was groped. “It’s a delicate balance between ensuring security and being close to the public,” explained a sociologist specializing in cultural studies. As a female president, it’s a sobering realization that you often can’t win.

Those raised in a deeply conservative manner where patriarchal structure are accepted, a female leader such as the president, who is a scientist and a leftist, represents everything macho men in the country hate,” Cardona explained.

Common Stories of Violation and Resistance

Sexual assault is not unique to Mexico, naturally. Talking about the leader’s ordeal opened a wave of recollections and shared stories among female individuals. As Cardona spoke about urging her students to react when groped, she heard about firsthand incidents, such as a case where a woman was assaulted twice during a religious pilgrimage. Similarly, stories of fighting back—like physically confronting a assailant in a nightspot—highlight a increasing worldwide trend of females refusing to stay silent.

Shattering Silence and Channeling Outrage

Maybe this event will mark a turning point for Mexican women. “For about a decade, we’ve been breaking the silence, but it’s incredibly difficult,” the sociologist stated. “Many women are ashamed, but today we are able to talk about it with greater openness.” She routinely shares with her class the measures she takes when leaving home, such as thinking about attire to avoid unwanted advances. She asks a query to her male pupils: “Have you ever considered about that?” The answer is always no.

Now, with the leader’s violation captured on film and seen worldwide, can Mexican men begin to think differently? The sociologist encourages all: “It’s essential to embrace the outrage!”

A key point is clear: Those who resist make their assailants remember.