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Male chauvinism in Mexico is so deeply rooted that not even the president is safe,” stated a professor and feminist, voicing a feeling shared by numerous women across the nation. This follows after a viral video showed a drunk man groping the country’s first female president as she strolled from the presidential residence to the education ministry. Sheinbaum, who has filed a complaint against the perpetrator, remarked at a press briefing: “When this happens to the president, what happens to every other women in the nation?”

Historic Situation Sheds Light on Widespread Sexual Harassment

The president’s historic role has made this a teaching moment in a culture where unwanted advances and physical violation on public spaces and public transport are often normalized and dismissed. Meanwhile, political opponents have alleged the assault was orchestrated to shift focus from the recently assassination of a local mayor, a critic of organized crime. However, most women know that sexual violence doesn’t need manufactured—studies indicate that half of Mexican women have faced it at one time or another in their lives.

Navigating Accessibility and Safety

Sheinbaum, similar to her preceding leader, is recognized for mixing with the public, greeting people, and posing for selfies. She was such an interaction that she was groped. “This is a fragile balance between ensuring security and being close to the people,” explained a sociologist specializing in cultural studies. For a woman leader, it’s a sobering realization that you often can’t win.

“For people raised in a very traditional manner where male-dominated systems are accepted, a female leader such as the president, who is a scientist and a progressive, embodies all that macho men in the country despise,” Cardona explained.

Shared Experiences of Assault and Fighting Back

Gender-based violence is not limited to this nation, of course. Talking about the president’s experience unleashed a flood of memories and shared accounts among female individuals. When Cardona spoke about advising her students not to freeze when groped, she heard about firsthand experiences, such as a case where a woman was violated twice during a religious pilgrimage. In a similar vein, stories of resisting—like beating up a assailant in a nightspot—underscore a growing global trend of women rejecting to stay silent.

Breaking Silence and Channeling Outrage

Maybe this incident will represent a critical moment for Mexican women. “We have been breaking the silence, but it’s incredibly difficult,” the sociologist stated. “Many women are ashamed, but today we can discuss it with greater openness.” She often shares with her class the precautions she takes when going out, such as considering attire to prevent unwanted advances. She poses a question to her male students: “Have you ever thought about that?” The answer is invariably no.

Now, with the president’s violation captured on video and seen globally, can men in Mexico start to reconsider? The sociologist urges everyone: “It’s essential to embrace the outrage!”

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