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“Machismo in Mexico is so pervasive that not one the head of state is protected,” declared a professor and feminist, voicing a feeling shared by numerous women throughout the nation. This comes after a viral video showed a intoxicated man groping Claudia Sheinbaum as she strolled from the National Palace to the education ministry. The president, who has filed a complaint against the perpetrator, remarked at a press briefing: “If they do this to the president, what happens to all the other women in the nation?”

Historic Position Sheds Light on Pervasive Sexual Harassment

Sheinbaum’s unprecedented position has turned this into a learning opportunity in a culture where sexual harassment and physical violation on streets and buses and trains are frequently accepted and dismissed. At the same time, political opponents have alleged the incident was staged to divert attention from the recently assassination of a local mayor, Carlos Manzo. Yet, most women know that sexual violence need not be staged—studies indicate that half of Mexican women have experienced it at some point in their lifetimes.

Balancing Public Engagement and Security

Sheinbaum, similar to her preceding leader, is recognized for mixing with the public, shaking hands, and taking photos. She was such an encounter that she was assaulted. “It’s a delicate balance between ensuring security and maintaining proximity to the people,” explained Ishtar Cardona. For a woman leader, it’s a sobering realization that you often face no-win situations.

“For people raised in a very traditional manner where patriarchal structure are accepted, a female leader such as the president, who is a scientist and a progressive, embodies all that traditional males in the country despise,” Cardona elaborated.

Common Experiences of Violation and Resistance

Sexual assault is not unique to Mexico, of course. Talking about the leader’s ordeal opened a flood of memories and shared accounts among female individuals. When the expert mentioned urging her pupils to react when groped, she learned about personal experiences, such as a case where a woman was violated twice during a religious pilgrimage. In a similar vein, stories of fighting back—like physically confronting a assailant in a nightspot—underscore a increasing worldwide trend of women refusing to remain passive.

Shattering Taboos and Embracing Anger

Perhaps this incident will mark a turning point for women across Mexico. “For about a decade, we’ve been breaking the taboo, but it’s very tough,” Cardona remarked. “Many women feel embarrassed, but today we are able to talk about it with more freedom.” The expert routinely shares with her students the precautions she takes when going out, such as thinking about clothing to avoid unwanted advances. And she asks a query to her male students: “Have you ever thought about that?” The answer is always no.

Now, after the president’s violation recorded on video and seen worldwide, can men in Mexico begin to think differently? The sociologist encourages everyone: “It’s essential to embrace the anger!”

A key point is evident: Those who fight back leave a lasting impression.