A Pivotal Moment in Women's Rights and Political Landscape in Mexico
Estela Mujica, now 87, recalls the significant day of October 17, 1953, when she attended the Palace of Fine Arts to witness the constitutional reforms being promulgated in Mexico. These amendments granted women full citizenship and the right to vote in all elections. Mujica, originally from Oaxaca and later a resident of Mexico City, remembers feeling a tremendous sense of excitement and relief to see women finally recognized in such a powerful way.
Despite living in a largely misogynistic and sexist society during the 1950s, Mujica and her family were an exception. Her father was determined that his daughters would receive a good education, breaking away from the notion that basic literacy was enough for women. Mujica’s memories bring to light the societal expectations and limitations placed on women during that era, as well as the steps towards progress that were just beginning to take root.
An important figure in this progress is Claudia Sheinbaum, the favorite in the upcoming presidential election in Mexico. If elected, Sheinbaum would make history as the first female president of Mexico. At her final campaign rally, Sheinbaum championed women's rights and the transformation of Mexican society, advocating for living without fear and free from violence. Her lead in the polls reflects her standing as a strong candidate who has consistently outpaced her center-right rival, Xochitl Galvez.
While Sheinbaum's campaign has highlighted successes like improved security measures in the capital, criticisms have not been scarce. Business leader Xochitl Galvez criticizes the current government's record on security, pointing to the high numbers of murders and missing persons since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office. Instances like the assassination of local candidates have marred the electoral landscape, exacerbating concerns over impunity and crime.
The election isn't just about the presidency; it's also about renewing the Congress, the Senate, and countless other local governmental positions. A successful tenure for Sheinbaum would also hinge on whether she can secure a majority in these legislative bodies. With 20,000 positions up for grabs, the results could significantly impact the governance and stability of her potential administration.
Beyond these electoral concerns, the incoming president will have to navigate a complex relationship with the United States, with substantial implications for trade, migration, and the fight against drug and arms trafficking. Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed confidence in maintaining a positive relationship with the U.S., regardless of whether Joe Biden or Donald Trump is in office.
- According to the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy, 8.9 million people have risen out of poverty during Lopez Obrador's administration, which underscores the significance of social policies aimed at reducing poverty.
- Doña Cholita, aged 95, shares her own voting experiences from 1955, reminiscing about how societal expectations then required her to adhere strictly to her husband's wishes. However, she is proud of having managed family finances and votes regularly to ensure women's increasing involvement in politics.
- The Third Government Report, dating September 1, 1955, highlights the voting statistics from the first federal election in which Mexican women participated. It registered 5 million men and 4 million women, with nearly 70% turnout.
- Specialists have pointed out that in the 1950s, several political parties, such as the National Action Party, opposed women's suffrage, arguing that family heads' votes represented the entire family. This belief reflected the broader societal attitudes of that era.
