MEXICO CITY (AP) – On Tuesday, hundreds of women took to the streets of Mexico City to protest the rampant violence against women in Mexico, a country where such gender-based violence remains pervasive. The demonstration coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, highlighting the urgent need for societal change and increased awareness of this critical issue.
The protesters, many dressed in purple or wearing green bandanas, expressed their solidarity through music and placards. One sign succinctly stated, "Today I am the voice of those who are asking for help," emphasizing the collective struggle for justice and support. Alin Rocha, a 41-year-old teacher, articulated her reasons for participating, saying, “I am here for my grandmother, for my mother, for all of the women who aren’t here anymore, for all the women who report (violence) and aren’t supported.” Her words represent the sentiment of many who feel the impact of gender violence deeply within their families and communities.
Since taking office as Mexico's first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum has sought to bring greater attention to gender violence and equality. Her administration has made strides in this area; however, incidents such as Sheinbaum being groped by a drunken man while walking in the historic center of the capital earlier this month underscore the challenges still faced. In response to the ongoing crisis, she convened governors from Mexico’s 32 states on Tuesday to discuss progress on legislation aimed at making sexual harassment a crime in every state. "Changing the laws is not enough, but it is necessary," Sheinbaum said, suggesting a need for real-world changes beyond legal frameworks.
Despite these efforts, many activists continue to express frustration over the lack of tangible changes in the fight against gender violence. Miriam González, a 41-year-old doctor, remarked that even with a woman in the presidency, "nothing has changed.” This skepticism reflects a broader disillusionment among those who have advocated for change for years, as they grapple with the persistent nature of violence against women in their society.
According to Mexico's National Institute of Statistics and Geography, alarming statistics reveal the extent of the issue: in 2021, 70% of Mexican women and girls aged 15 and older reported experiencing some form of violence, with nearly half of those incidents being sexual in nature. These figures contribute to the urgent call for a comprehensive approach to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of gender violence in the country.
The protest in Mexico City on November 25, 2025, serves as a strong reminder of the ongoing battle for women's rights and safety. As marchers continue to raise their voices for justice and demand action, they embody the resilience and determination needed to confront a deeply entrenched culture of violence against women.
