On Saturday, a large crowd gathered in Mexico City to voice their concerns over the escalating crime rates, pervasive corruption, and a sense of impunity. This protest, organized mainly by members of Generation Z, saw significant participation from older individuals, many of whom are also aligned with the opposition.
In recent months, young people in various countries have been raising their voices against issues like inequality and democratic decline. It’s a trend that seems to resonate globally. For instance, in Nepal, social media restrictions triggered its largest Gen Z protests in September, leading to the resignation of the prime minister. In Mexico, young protesters express frustration over systemic corruption and the pervasive nature of violent crime.
“We need more security,” stated Andres Massa, 29, who carried a pirate skull flag—a symbol widely recognized in Gen Z protests.
Arizbeth Garcia, a 43-year-old doctor, also participated, advocating for increased funding for the public health system and safer conditions. She emphasized that healthcare professionals face the same threats in their daily lives, where violence can erupt without consequences.
Despite a troubling rise in high-profile crime, including the recent assassination of a mayor in Michoacán, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum enjoys strong approval ratings. In the lead-up to the protests, she accused right-wing factions of attempting to hijack the Gen Z movement and of using social media bots to amplify their reach.
Recently, some social media influencers who identify with Gen Z expressed their withdrawal of support for these protests. Yet, notable figures like former President Vicente Fox and billionaire businessman Ricardo Salinas Priego have publicly endorsed the movement.
The Saturday protest featured a diverse crowd, with supporters of the recently slain Michoacán mayor Carlos Manzo donning straw hats representative of his political ideals.
“The state is dying,” remarked Rosa María Avila, 65, a real estate agent from Patzcuaro. She reflected on Manzo’s courage in confronting local violence, noting, “He was killed because he was the man who sent police into the mountains to fight the thugs.”
