Machismo & Marianismo

Machismo — the claim of male superiority — is still deeply rooted in Mexico, even as society is rapidly changing. Traditionally, men are expected to be strong, dominant, and the family provider. The counterpart is Marianismo: the idealization of women as self-sacrificing, patient mothers (modeled after the Virgin Mary).

Reality Today

Mexico has a growing feminist movement. The femicide rates (murders of women due to their gender) are alarmingly high — on average, 10 women are murdered per day in Mexico. The green scarves (pañuelos verdes) and purple protest marches on March 8th are signs of societal upheaval.

At the same time: Claudia Sheinbaum became the first president in 2024. Women make up the majority in Congress. In cities (especially CDMX), women are increasingly living independently. In rural areas, traditional gender roles remain strong.

For travelers, this means: Mexico is a safe travel destination for women, as long as usual precautions are taken (not walking alone at night, using Uber instead of street taxis). Catcalling (Piropos) occurs but is becoming less frequent. In indigenous communities, wear more conservative clothing.