Workers at a government institution in Mexico City have revolted by tearing down a large pride flag installed inside a building.
Video footage showed employees at the National Housing Fund for Workers (Infonavit) ripping down the rainbow flag in an apparent protest.
Union leader Rafael Riva Palacio reportedly ordered the flag’s removal, calling it “unworthy” to be hung in the building’s façade which he claimed had been used for advertising purposes. Presumably to hedge against allegations of homophobia, Palacio acknowledged his support for the LGBTQ+ community and emphasized his devotion to the safety and human rights of his union’s workers.
The development comes amid an existential crisis among the most vocal members of the LGBTQ+ community. Despite widespread support for gay rights in Mexico, many feel uncomfortable with what they see as a woke agenda pushed upon them.
Workers could be heard shouting “La única bandera que permitimos es la nacional [The only flag we allow is the national one],” as they took down the rainbow flag on June 5, 2024.
Social media users pointed to the fact that Mexico is a deeply Catholic country, where social views on homosexuality are more conservative than in the United States.
Others praised the sense of national pride exhibited by the Mexican workers.
Mexico has recently elected its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, who is renowned for her views which some rightly consider to be woke. While leader of Mexico City, she implemented gender-neutral school uniforms while also becoming the first Head of Government of Mexico City to attend the local pride march.
