President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico faced an unsettling incident on Tuesday while walking near the National Palace in Mexico City. She was approached by a man who was clearly drunk.
During the public interaction, he attempted to kiss her and placed his hands on her body. The president only gently turned his hands away and turned toward him. She kept her poise and could be heard saying “Don’t worry” with a stiff smile.
This incident was captured on video and made rounds through social media, prompting overwhelming public reactions at the same time raising questions about the fate of women in public areas, including high ranking officials.
Publicly Declaring Action and Justice
On Wednesday, President Sheinbaum announced to the media that she would implement charges against the man. She explained that it was more than a personal matter, it was an assault on all women.
“No man has the right to violate that space,” declared Sheinbaum during a press conference. She also revealed that this was not the first time she had experienced harassment.
Prompt Arrest and Government Response
Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada confirmed that the man had been nabbed overnight. The arrest happened shortly after the video went viral on the internet. As soon as the man was recognized, authorities swung into action. The head of the General Directorate of Aides de Camp, Juan José Ramírez Mendoza, intervened in the act.
Sheinbaum’s experience is one of day to day life for many women across the country, and her response has been commended for its courage and clarity. The legal action is precedent setting in approaching harassment issues head on and demanding justice on behalf of all Mexicans.
Conclusion
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s reported decision to take legal action over the case of public harassment has undoubtedly stirred the pot on a perennial problem of gender related violence in today’s Mexico. Renewed calls for security, respect and accountability follow this act of leadership.
