Chihuahua City Council Bans Songs Promoting Violence Against Women
Chihuahua, Mexico – In a groundbreaking move, the city council of Chihuahua has unanimously approved a ban on songs that promote violence against women. The measure, aimed at combating the escalating levels of gender-based violence, also prohibits songs that discriminate against, marginalize, or exclude women.
Mayor Marco Bonilla passionately spoke about the urgency of addressing this widespread issue, stating that violence against women has reached pandemic levels. Shockingly, almost 70% of emergency calls in Chihuahua are related to domestic violence, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Under the new law, fines for non-compliance range from 674,000 pesos to 1.244 million pesos. These fines will be used to support organizations working towards gender equality and a local women’s refuge, effectively channeling the funds into initiatives that offer help and support to women in need.
The ban will be enforced at events that require a permit from the council, ensuring that public gatherings do not provide platforms for songs that perpetuate violence or discrimination against women. However, it remains unclear how this law will be enforced, and no specific artists were named as targets, leaving room for speculation in the music industry.
Genres such as reggaeton and narcocorridos, known for explicit and sexist lyrics, as well as their association with violence and drug trade, could potentially be affected by this ban. Narcocorridos, in particular, have faced criticism for glamorizing drug trafficking and cartels, leading to concerns about their impact on society.
The move has garnered attention from Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who has expressed his disapproval of songs promoting violence and drug use. However, he clarified that he does not intend to ban the genre entirely, demonstrating a nuanced approach towards cultural expression while advocating for responsible content.
This is not the first time Chihuahua has taken a stand against controversial songs. In 2012, the popular Mexican group Los Tigres del Norte faced a ban after performing narcocorridos in the city. The recent measure further solidifies Chihuahua’s commitment to creating a safer environment for women and combatting issues such as human trafficking and drug smuggling, which have plagued the city for years.
With 24 femicides reported in Chihuahua state from January to June this year alone, the implementation of this ban sends a strong message that violence against women will not be tolerated. As the law takes effect, the hope is that it will serve as a catalyst for change in the music industry and society at large, fostering a culture of respect and equality for all.
