
MEXICO CITY (AP) — A few thousand people took to the streets of Mexico City on Saturday to protest growing crime, corruption and impunity in a protest organized by members of Generation Z, but which ended with strong backing from older supporters of opposition parties.
In several countries this year, members of the demographic group born between the late 90s and early 2010s have organized protests against inequality, democratic backsliding and corruption.
The largest "Gen Z” protests took place in Nepal in September, following a ban on social media, and led to the resignation of that nation’s prime minister. In Mexico, many young people say they are frustrated with systemic problems like corruption and impunity for violent crimes.
“We need more security” said Andres Massa, a 29-year-old business consultant who carried the pirate skull flag that has become a global symbol of Gen Z protests.
Arizbeth Garcia, a 43-year-old physician who joined the protests said she was marching for more funding for the public health system, and for better security because doctors “are also exposed to the insecurity gripping the country, where you can be murdered and nothing happens.”
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum still has high approval ratings despite a recent spate of high profile murders that includes the assassination of a popular mayor in the western state of Michoacan.
In the days leading up to Saturday’s protest, Sheinbaum accused right-wing parties of trying to infiltrate the Gen Z movement, and of using bots on social media to try to increase attendance.
This week some “Gen Z” social media influencers said they no longer backed Saturday’s protests. While elderly figures like former President Vicente Fox, and Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego published messages in support of the protests.
Saturday’s march was attended by people from several age groups, with supporters of the recently killed Michoacan Mayor Carlos Manzo, attending the protest wearing the straw hats that symbolize his political movement.
“The state is dying,” said Rosa Maria Avila, a 65-year-old real estate agent who traveled from the town of Patzcuaro in Michoacan state.
“He was killed because he was a man who was sending officers into the mountains to fight delinquents. He had the guts to confront them,” she said of Manzo.
LATEST POSTS
- 1
More parents refusing this shot that prevents serious bleeding at birth - 2
'Heated Rivalry' is just the tip of the iceberg. How hockey became the sexiest sport - 3
6 Financial plan 3D Printers with the Best Worth - 4
He made a name for himself posting thirst traps on TikTok. Now he's the star of a wildly popular rom-com. - 5
Vote in favor of your Number one Kind of Gems
Strength training is crucial after menopause. How to make the most of your workouts
NASA's moon mission has begun — here's what's ahead for the Artemis II astronauts
Vote In favor of Your #1 Method for diminishing Pressure
Who is Adm. Frank 'Mitch' Bradley and what does he have to do with the Venezuela boat strikes?
Shipping: The Corridors of Trade and the Coming of Another Period
Improving as a Cook: Culinary Experiences in the Kitchen
How to watch 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' for less with this Apple TV Black Friday deal
James Webb Space Telescope watches 'Jekyll and Hyde' galaxy shapeshift into a cosmic monster
4 buzzy new TV shows to watch — plus the return of 'The Comeback,' 'Jury Duty' and more












