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Male chauvinism in Mexico is so deeply rooted that not one the head of state is safe,” stated a professor and feminist, voicing a sentiment echoed by many women throughout the country. This follows after a viral video showed a drunk man groping Claudia Sheinbaum as she strolled from the National Palace to the department of education. The president, who has pressed charges against the perpetrator, remarked at a press briefing: “When this happens to the leader, what happens to every other women in the country?”

Unprecedented Position Highlights on Widespread Sexual Harassment

The president’s unprecedented role has turned this into a learning opportunity in a culture where unwanted advances and physical violation on public spaces and buses and trains are frequently accepted and not taken seriously. Meanwhile, rival factions have alleged the assault was staged to shift focus from the recently assassination of a city leader, Carlos Manzo. However, most women know that gender-based aggression need not be manufactured—research indicate that 50% of Mexican women have experienced it at some point in their lives.

Navigating Accessibility and Security

Sheinbaum, like her predecessor, is recognized for mixing with the public, shaking hands, and posing for selfies. It was during such an interaction that she was groped. “It’s a fragile balance between being safe and being close to the public,” explained a sociologist specializing in cultural studies. For a female president, it’s a sobering realization that frequently can’t win.

Those raised in a deeply conservative manner where patriarchal structure are normalized, a woman like Sheinbaum, who is a academic and a progressive, represents all that macho men in the country hate,” the sociologist elaborated.

Shared Experiences of Assault and Resistance

Gender-based violence is not unique to this nation, naturally. Talking about the leader’s experience opened a wave of recollections and exchanged stories among female individuals. As Cardona mentioned urging her pupils to react when assaulted, she heard about personal incidents, such as one where a woman was assaulted twice during a holy journey. Similarly, accounts of resisting—like beating up a groper in a club—highlight a increasing worldwide trend of females rejecting to remain passive.

Shattering Taboos and Channeling Outrage

Perhaps this incident will mark a critical moment for Mexican women. “We have been breaking the taboo, but it’s incredibly difficult,” Cardona remarked. “Many women are ashamed, but now we can discuss it with more freedom.” She often discusses with her class the measures she takes when going out, such as considering attire to prevent harassment. And she poses a question to her male pupils: “Have you ever thought about that?” The answer is always no.

Today, with the president’s violation captured on video and viewed worldwide, can Mexican men begin to reconsider? Cardona urges everyone: “It’s essential to harness the outrage!”

One thing is clear: Those who resist leave a lasting impression.