Representatives of the indigenous peoples of Mexico City protested on the steps of the Congress of CDMX to demand that their right to consultation be respected in light of the reform proposed by the Green Party. This reform seeks to prohibit public spectacles with animals, such as jaripeos and bullfights. Adriana Fabiola Poblano, president of the Autonomous Council of Indigenous Peoples and Neighborhoods of CDMX, emphasized that the Constitution guarantees the participation of indigenous peoples in decisions that affect their customs and environment.
During the press conference, Poblano highlighted: “Consultation is not a dilatory practice; it is the recognition of our ancestral struggles, our traditions, and the pluricultural composition of our nation.” On the other hand, the PAN has not yet made a decision regarding its vote on the initiative that seeks to prohibit bullfights and cockfights in the capital.
Additionally, Andrés Atayde mentioned the importance of consulting the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico City to understand their stance on the prohibition of bullfighting. The representatives present emphasized that they are neither in favor nor against spectacles with animals, but they defend their right to prior, free, and informed consultation.
In response to criticisms from Jesús Sesma regarding the delay in the discussion process of the bullfighting prohibition, the deputy reiterated his position and called on all parties to define their vote. For her part, Poblano stated: “Let it be clear that the indigenous peoples of this pioneering city will not allow a party to delegitimize our historical struggles with the right on this issue.”
Amid this debate, it is noted that the PVEM, promoter of the reform, previously voted in favor of recognizing the right of indigenous peoples to be consulted in the federal Congress. The discussion on the bill seeking to prohibit bullfighting and cockfighting will gain relevance in the ordinary sessions of the Congress of Mexico City starting February 5. The PAN and the indigenous peoples request respect for the citizen consultation processes, while Jesús Sesma urges legislators to take a stance in their vote, emphasizing the importance of not delegitimizing the constitutional rights of indigenous peoples.
