As a first-generation Mexican-American woman in college, I am always proud of where I come from. Having been raised surrounded by Mexican culture, I am proud of my roots. I am proud of being a woman, especially now during Women’s Month. I am also proud of Mexican women, as they are currently protesting against femicide rates in Mexico. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, femicide is defined as “violence against women comprises a wide range of acts — from verbal harassment and other forms of emotional abuse, to daily physical or sexual abuse. At the far end of the spectrum is femicide: the murder of a woman,” according to the World Health Organization.
I am proud that they are standing up against injustices in society which is still taboo in Mexican society.
On International Women’s Day in Mexico City in front of the Nation Place, women and men dressed in the color purple marched and protested the increase in femicide rates. According to The New York Times, “Mexico recorded 969 femicides last year, up slightly from 949 in 2020.” This has led to about ten women dying each day due to femicide. Unfortunately, many remain unsolved and have little to no information.
Over the years, protests against femicide have become a normal occurrence. Women are tired of not being able to speak out and staying quiet. Mexican women have had enough and are tired of being let down by their government and the police.
I’m proud of Mexican women because they are standing up and supporting other women, especially during International Women’s Month.