Mexico Elects First Female President: Is Every Election Really a Win?

Unless you have been living under a rock, you most likely know that Mexico elected their first female president early this year. There is no denying that this historic moment represents more of a gigantic leap than a step in the right direction. In a country where 90% of Mexicans harbour negative biases against women, and 58% hold such biases specifically against female politicians, the election of Claudia Sheinbaum is groundbreaking.

We love a good news story, and we especially love seeing women breaking glass ceilings. But after a quick look into the politics of Mexico, we were left with a question: are we being pinkwashed?

Beneath the happy headlines of this week's media splash, many upset Mexicans have taken to social media to share their experiences, revealing a more complex picture. A quick peek into any comment section or forum will show you what many of the Mexican people have experienced—stories that don't always make catchy headlines.

Climate Activist?

Although President Sheinbaum may be hailed as a climate scientist, she has been heavily criticized for supporting one of the country’s most controversial infrastructure projects, the 1,500-kilometer Maya Train corridor. This project cuts across forests and archaeological sites to connect tourist areas like Cancún to rural parts of the Yucatán Peninsula, drawing criticism from environmentalists.

Women protesting on International Womans Day, Mexico 2022

A Win for Feminism?

Sheinbaum's history with feminist movements is contentious. As the Head of Government of Mexico City, her administration initially showed promise in addressing social protests differently than past regimes. However, she has faced criticism for stigmatizing and criminalizing feminist activists and protests, particularly during the mobilizations for the decriminalization of abortion on September 29, 2020.

Her public denunciation of activists and the harsh police tactics against demonstrators, including arbitrary detentions, use of tear gas, and harassment, have drawn condemnation from organizations like FLEPS, CIMAC, and RRM. These groups argue that her actions reflect a broader failure to address systemic violence against women in Mexico, where approximately 11 women are murdered daily, and protest remains a vital means for women to demand justice. Abortion is still not legal across all of Mexico, an issue Sheinbaum chose to remain silent on, unlike some of her opponents who actively campaigned for it .

However, It Is Not All Doom. Let's Turn to the Positives.

MARC BUSHELLE

Representation Matters

The election of Claudia Sheinbaum as Mexico's first female president is a groundbreaking moment that lights the way for a generation of girls to dream bigger and aim higher. When young girls see women in the highest positions of power, it shatters the glass ceiling and sends a powerful message: there are no limits to what they can achieve. Representation isn't just about filling a role; it's about igniting aspirations, challenging outdated stereotypes, and creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to lead and excel. This historic achievement inspires future leaders and paves the way for a more inclusive and vibrant world where every girl's potential can shine.

Changing Perspectives and Fostering Inclusivity

In a country where 58% hold biases specifically against female politicians, tens of millions have voted for women. This promotes gender equality and challenges patriarchal norms, showcasing that leadership qualities transcend gender. On the world stage, it can help elevate the country's global standing and inspire other nations to follow suit.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Headlines

Women in leadership positions don't automatically translate to improved quality of life for women. Despite Mexico having one of the highest proportions of female legislators globally, with women occupying 48% of the seats in Congress, significant gender disparities remain. Women still earn 16% less than men, and eleven women die violently each day according to the New York Times. This underscores the need for policies and practical actions that foster real change.

HALLDOR KOLBEINS / AFP

Additionally, Iceland provides an inspiring example where female leadership has led to systemic changes. Businesswoman Halla Tomasdottir won Iceland's election after beating fellow female leader Katrín Jakobsdóttir. Iceland consistently tops the charts on gender equality, boasts the best parental leave policy in the world, and mandates that company boards must include at least 40% women. Iceland shows that with the right policies, female leadership can indeed drive systemic change.

Will Claudia Sheinbaum's election create true change for the people of Mexico? Only time will tell. While having women in leadership roles is a significant step, real inclusion and equality depend on the policies enacted and the actions taken to create systemic change. This historic moment for Mexico is filled with potential, but the true measure of success will be in the tangible improvements in the lives of its citizens.

Sources:

1. The Meaning of Mexico's First Female President | TIME
2. Claudia Sheinbaum's Statements and Police Actions During Feminist Protests #28S Violate Rights - Article 19
3. Mexico's first female president offers little on women's rights | Context
4. The New York Times
5. Male Chauvinist Legislators | Opinion | EL PAÍS Mexico
6. 40 people injured during feminist demonstration in Mexico (vanguardngr.com)
7. Businesswoman Tomasdottir elected Iceland's next president (lemonde.fr)
8. Mexico elects Claudia Sheinbaum as first woman president in landslide – POLITICO