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Male chauvinism in Mexico is so pervasive that not even the head of state is safe,” declared a professor and feminist, expressing a feeling shared by numerous women throughout the nation. This comes after a viral video showed a drunk man molesting the country’s first female president as she strolled from the National Palace to the education ministry. The president, who has filed a complaint against the perpetrator, commented at a press briefing: “When this happens to the leader, what happens to all the other women in the nation?”

Unprecedented Position Highlights on Pervasive Gender-Based Violence

Sheinbaum’s unprecedented role has made this a learning opportunity in a society where sexual harassment and assault on streets and public transport are often normalized and dismissed. Meanwhile, rival factions have alleged the assault was orchestrated to shift focus from the recently murder of a city leader, a critic of organized crime. Yet, most women understand that sexual violence doesn’t need manufactured—studies indicate that 50% of Mexican women have experienced it at some point in their lifetimes.

Navigating Accessibility and Security

Sheinbaum, similar to her predecessor, is known for wading into crowds, greeting people, and posing for selfies. It was during one such encounter that she was groped. “It’s a delicate balance between ensuring security and being close to the public,” noted Ishtar Cardona. As a female president, it’s a stark reminder that frequently can’t win.

Those raised in a deeply conservative way where male-dominated systems are normalized, a female leader like Sheinbaum, who is a scientist and a progressive, embodies everything traditional males in the country hate,” the sociologist elaborated.

Shared Experiences of Violation and Resistance

Sexual assault is not unique to Mexico, naturally. Talking about the president’s experience unleashed a wave of memories and shared accounts among women. When the expert mentioned advising her students to react when assaulted, she learned about personal incidents, such as one where a woman was violated twice during a holy journey. Similarly, stories of fighting back—like beating up a assailant in a nightspot—underscore a increasing global trend of females refusing to stay silent.

Shattering Silence and Embracing Anger

Perhaps this event will represent a turning point for women across Mexico. “For about a decade, we’ve been breaking the silence, but it’s very tough,” Cardona stated. “A lot of women feel ashamed, but now we are able to talk about it with greater openness.” She routinely discusses with her class the precautions she employs when leaving home, such as considering clothing to avoid unwanted advances. She asks a question to her male pupils: “Have you ever thought about that?” Their response is always no.

Now, after the leader’s assault recorded on film and viewed globally, will men in Mexico begin to reconsider? Cardona encourages all: “You have to embrace the outrage!”

A key point is clear: The individuals who resist leave a lasting impression.