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Generation Z Leads Nationwide Protests in Mexico After Mayor’s Killing Sparks Public Outrage
Thousands across Mexico joined Generation Z–led protests condemning rising violence after the public assassination of an anti-crime mayor. Demonstrations turned tense in Mexico City, with clashes, injuries and arrests, as young Mexicans demand stronger action against corruption and insecurity.
Generation Z–style protests erupt across Mexico following mayor’s assassination
Thousands of people across Mexico rallied under the banner of “Generation Z” on Saturday to denounce escalating violence after the public killing of an anti-crime mayor earlier this month.
In Mexico City, a small group of masked demonstrators tore down metal barricades surrounding the National Palace, the residence of President Claudia Sheinbaum. According to Reuters eyewitnesses, the incident triggered clashes with riot police, who responded with tear gas.
Pablo Vázquez, Mexico City’s Secretary of Public Security, said during a press conference that 100 police officers were injured, 40 of whom required hospital treatment. He told the local outlet Milenio that 20 civilians were also injured.
Authorities confirmed that 20 people were arrested, while another 20 were detained for “administrative offenses.”
Protests also swept through several other cities, including in the western state of Michoacán, where anger has surged over the November 1 assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo. Manzo was fatally shot during a public Day of the Dead event, fueling widespread outrage.
In Mexico City, some demonstrators directed their frustration at Sheinbaum’s ruling party, chanting, “Morena, get out!” Others demanded stronger action from the government to curb crime and violence, shouting, “Carlos didn’t die — the government killed him!”
A group calling itself “Generation Z Mexico,” which helped organize the demonstrations, released a “manifesto” on social media declaring that it is nonpartisan and represents young Mexicans fed up with violence, corruption and abuses of power.
Generation Z refers to people born between 1997 and 2012, following the millennial generation. Across the world, several youth-led protest movements have adopted this label as they push for social and political change.
The Sheinbaum administration has questioned the motives behind Saturday’s marches, alleging that many were orchestrated by right-wing political opponents and amplified by bots on social media.
