INE calls for political rights of indigenous and Afro-Mexican women

Rita Bell López Vences, a counselor for Mexico’s National Electoral Institute (INE), has called for strengthened institutional actions to guarantee the political and electoral rights of indigenous and Afro-Mexican women.

Speaking at an intercultural dialogue in Guadalajara, Jalisco, López Vences emphasized that while constitutional recognition of these rights is a fundamental step, effective implementation requires dedicated resources, widespread dissemination, and permanent institutional commitment. She noted that electoral authorities must ensure affirmative actions for indigenous and Afro-Mexican populations are genuine and not subject to simulation or usurpation.

López Vences also highlighted the need to address inequalities stemming from traditional roles and caregiving responsibilities that disproportionately affect women in community leadership. She stressed the importance of listening to communities to ensure measures respect their specific contexts and organizational structures without interfering in communal life.