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Male chauvinism in Mexico is so pervasive that not even the president is safe,” stated Caterina Camastra, voicing a sentiment shared by numerous women across the nation. This comes after a viral video showed a drunk man molesting the country’s first female president as she strolled from the presidential residence to the education ministry. The president, who has pressed charges against the assailant, remarked at a press briefing: “If they do this to the president, what happens to every other women in the nation?”

Historic Position Sheds Light on Widespread Sexual Harassment

Sheinbaum’s historic position has turned this into a learning opportunity in a culture where sexual harassment and assault on public spaces and public transport are frequently accepted and dismissed. At the same time, rival factions have claimed the assault was staged to shift focus from the recent assassination of a local mayor, Carlos Manzo. Yet, most women know that sexual violence doesn’t need staged—research indicate that half of Mexican women have faced it at some point in their lifetimes.

Navigating Accessibility and Safety

Sheinbaum, similar to her preceding leader, is recognized for wading into crowds, shaking hands, and taking photos. It was during one such interaction that she was assaulted. “This is a fragile balance between being safe and being close to the people,” noted Ishtar Cardona. As a woman leader, it’s a stark realization that frequently face no-win situations.

“For people brought up in a deeply conservative manner where male-dominated systems are normalized, a female leader like Sheinbaum, who is a scientist and a leftist, represents everything traditional males in the country despise,” Cardona elaborated.

Shared Stories of Violation and Fighting Back

Sexual assault is not unique to this nation, naturally. Discussing the president’s ordeal unleashed a flood of memories and exchanged stories among female individuals. As Cardona spoke about urging her students not to freeze when groped, she learned about firsthand experiences, such as a case where a individual was violated on two occasions during a holy journey. Similarly, accounts of resisting—like physically confronting a groper in a nightspot—highlight a growing worldwide movement of females refusing to remain passive.

Shattering Taboos and Embracing Anger

Maybe this event will mark a turning point for women across Mexico. “We have been challenging the taboo, but it’s very tough,” the sociologist stated. “Many women feel ashamed, but today we can discuss it with more freedom.” She routinely shares with her class the precautions she takes when going out, such as considering attire to avoid unwanted advances. And she asks a question to her male students: “Did you ever thought about that?” The answer is always no.

Now, after the leader’s assault captured on video and viewed worldwide, will Mexican men start to think differently? Cardona encourages all: “It’s essential to embrace the anger!”

One thing is clear: The individuals who resist make their assailants remember.