A WORLD CUP
BEYOND SOCCER:
MEXICO’S VISION FOR 2026
In every family and social circle, it is endlessly repeated that you should never talk about soccer, politics, or religion. And yet, just as endlessly, we continue discussing these topics—especially if you’re a woman.
But how can we not, given the intense and frankly tumultuous present? From the back-and-forth over tariffs (which, at the time of writing, had been postponed for the second time), we now shift our focus to Gabriela Cuevas, appointed by Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, as Mexico’s representative for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, set to take place across Mexico, the United States, and Canada—essentially, the NAFTA of soccer.
For Gabriela Cuevas, hosting the World Cup is an opportunity that extends far beyond soccer. Once again, the world will turn its eyes to Mexico. “Today, there is good news in terms of security and the economy, and our President is announcing new projects, for example, in the energy sector and for social welfare programs,” she says. This is a chance to boost investment, leverage existing tourism and cultural infrastructure, and allow visitors to experience Mexico through one of the most important sporting events regarding global audience and economic impact. The goal is clear: improve the quality of life for Mexicans while enjoying a world-class event.
Attracting fans to experience the World Cup in one of Mexico’s three host cities—Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey—among the 16 tournament venues is both a challenge and an opportunity. But for Cuevas, the event will not be confined to stadiums. Instead, it will be a massive, inclusive celebration throughout the country.
“Mexico is already a tourism powerhouse with world-class infrastructure to host visitors. And with everything the Mexican government is organizing, this will be a huge celebration,” she says enthusiastically. She also highlights Mexico’s renowned
Gabriela Cuevas sees the 2026 World Cup as a chance to boost investment, tourism, and inclusion in Mexico beyond soccer.
hospitality: “Yes, we have amazing beaches, colonial cities, and archaeological sites, but the heart of the Mexican people is unique in the world.”
Mexico has a solid infrastructure beyond the country’s existing tourism services, including UNAEFA, Tulum, the Maya Train, AIFA Airport, and soon the Trans-Isthmic Train: ‘We are already a major country—the world’s 12th-largest economy.’
To achieve the World Cup’s full potential, there must be precise coordination between all government departments and across Mexico’s 29 non-host states, which will still benefit from the event’s economic spillover. This includes the development of new tourism routes—encouraging visitors to extend their stay and explore Puebla and Tlaxcala from Mexico City, Nayarit’s beaches from Jalisco, or eco-tourism and vineyard experiences near Monterrey, where a regional tourism passport is in development. The possibilities are endless for those who recognize Mexico’s rich diversity as an asset for locals and international travelers.
A STRATEGIC APPROACH TO INFRASTRUCTURE
Mexico’s two flagship infrastructure projects from the previous administration will play key roles. AIFA (Felipe Ángeles International Airport) will help relieve congestion at Mexico City’s main airport, handling private flights for teams and special guests and charter flights for fans. Meanwhile, the Maya Train and its connections to U.S. hubs like Miami, Houston, and Dallas will provide a strategic base for travelers attending matches in the U.S. while staying in Mexico. “If it’s a North American World Cup, then Cancún’s proximity to major U.S. host cities makes it a natural hub,” Cuevas emphasizes. The scale of planning is, indeed, ambitious.
BEYOND SOCCER: A TRILATERAL POLITICAL DIALOGUE
Organizing the 2026 World Cup is a massive logistical challenge involving multiple sectors and governance
We must bring greater attention to women’s role in sports, particularly soccer. Just as we’ve paved the way for women in politics, we must now do the same in sports.’
levels. But it also raises critical political reflections. Politics will inevitably intersect with sports, just as the World Cup will extend beyond the stadiums. “The World Cup is another avenue for trilateral communication between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada,” says Cuevas. Just as we’ve seen Donald Trump attending the Super Bowl and supporting athletes, political discussions during the tournament are not out of the question.
Of the 13 matches to be played in Mexico, approximately 850,000 fans will attend in person.
Compared to Mexico’s 130 million inhabitants, this number is small. That’s why the government is working on expanding public and community spaces where people can gather and experience the tournament. “The World Cup can strengthen the social fabric and generate significant well-being for local communities—and that’s a major focus for us,” Cuevas states.
WOMEN AND CHILDREN: ENSURING REPRESENTATION AND SAFETY The representation of women and children was also a key topic in this interview. A men’s World Cup coordinated by a woman, Gabriela Cuevas, is working alongside Citlalli Hernández, Mexico’s Minister for Women, to ensure that women are involved in decision-making and have access to safe public spaces. Security in stadiums, Fan Fests, and public viewing areas is a priority. “Every World Cup venue, whether it’s a FIFA stadium, a government-organized event, or a public square, must be safe for women, girls, and boys,” Cuevas asserts.
THE THREE GOALS FOR MEXICO’S WORLD CUP In summary, Cuevas envisions three key goals for Mexico’s role in the 2026 World Cup: On the field: “The first goals have to be scored by our national team—without a doubt.”
For society: “The World Cup must be a driver of well-being and development, moving away from elitist spectacles accessible only to a privileged few, and becoming a true people’s World Cup, bringing tangible benefits to everyday Mexicans.”
For investment: “Welcoming global investors— including FIFA-invited fund managers—will create business and economic opportunities that align with Mexico’s broader goal of ensuring well-being across all regions.”Before concluding the interview, Gabriela Cuevas shared two key invitations with Heraldo USA readers: Be cautious when purchasing tickets: FIFA is the only official ticket distributor. “Make sure you buy from authorized FIFA sources,” she warns. Stay tuned for the World Cup volunteer program: FIFA and the Mexican government will soon launch its volunteer recruitment drive. “We want this World Cup to be felt across all of Mexico—stay alert for announcements!”
FINAL QUESTION
One last question, Gaby. What team did your birth certificate list you as a fan of?
Mexico, of course! she proudly replies. And so, we talked about soccer and politics—between women.
BY ALEJANDRA ICELA MARTÍNEZ RODRÍGUEZ
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Every day, I have the privilege of working alongside four amazing scientists in my department—all women—and I don’t take that for granted.
CONSERVATION PROJECT
THE WORLD
HOW A WOMEN-LED ONE URBAN CANYON AT A TIME IS CHANGING
BY: MICHELLE THOMPSON
ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
ILUSTRATION:
Women account for only about 30 percent of researchers globally, according to UNESCO. There is a range of gender disparity across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. In recent years, conservation sciences have seen an increase in women’s participation, and when compared to some other STEM disciplines, our numbers are higher. Still, women in conservation science receive less recognition for our contributions when compared to our male counterparts, university programs in conservation biology remain predominantly male, peer-reviewed literature is largely shaped by men from the global north, and challenging or dismantling patriarchal norms and structures in conservation science remains a significant hurdle. In corporations, there is also a shortage of female leadership—women are notably underrepresented in the CEO positions of the world’s top fishing, forestry, agriculture, and energy firms.
The underrepresentation of women in research and leadership positions in STEM fields creates barriers for a significant portion of the population to influence decision-making processes that have lasting global impacts and are vital for our environment and quality of life.
This is why I don’t take our women-composed team for granted. We form the Department of Conservation Biology at the San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) and lead the Healthy Canyons Initiative. The initiative involves a multidisciplinary team of over 30 scientists and educators from The Nat that collaborates with a large network of San Diego landowners, land managers, community and conservation organizations, government agencies, and local
SAN DIEGO IS THE MOST BIODIVERSE COUNTY IN THE CONTIGUOUS UNITED STATES
THERE ARE OVER 250 NAMED CANYONS IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY ACCORDING TO THE GEOGRAPHIC NAMES INFORMATION SYSTEM WE HAVE ENGAGED MORE THAN 200 LOCAL COMMUNITY SCIENTISTS THROUGH THE HEALTHY CANYONS INITIATIVE HAS ENGAGED
residents. The project will help determine the current state of conservation of plants and animals within urban San Diego canyons, while fostering community engagement and connection to these greenspaces.
It’s estimated that 81% of City of San Diego residents live within a 10-minute walk from a greenspace like parks or open spaces, and one of the main reasons they are so accessible is our matrix of canyons. As San Diego continues to be urbanized, flat mesas are increasingly developed leaving a patchwork of greenspaces created by the steeper, more-difficult-to-develop canyons. For most residents in San Diego, these urban canyons are the natural areas that people are most in contact with, the greenspaces they can open their front door and easily walk to, the nature they live next to.
The Healthy Canyons Initiative isn’t just a multidisciplinary research initiative to survey canyon wildlife like plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds. What makes this project particularly inspiring is not just the science behind it, but also its emphasis on community engagement. Our team is collaborating with community organizations to find innovative ways to involve local residents and students. Our project has engaged more than 200 local community scientists—including school groups, canyon-adjacent residents, and community organizations—to join in the development, data collection, and application of this work. This collaborative approach helps empower people regardless of their science background to become stewards of nature, fostering a greater sense of ownership and responsibility over natural spaces. We are also creating educational opportunities for local students, which helps prepare the next generation of conservation leaders. Threats to these canyons have been moun-
ting for decades. There are many organizations that have been working hard for years to conserve canyon greenspaces on a local scale. The Nat’s initiative aims to uplift ongoing work from partner organizations and convene organizations and communities to achieve a larger reach. By combining diverse skills and perspectives, we are creating stronger solutions and amplifying our impact.
For me, the most significant aspect of being part of a women-led team is the “role model effect,” where others—both professional and community scientists—can look to women in leadership roles as examples. As a biology student, I was surrounded by many female classmates, but the majority of the professors, mentors, and employers I encountered were men. Women now represent an increasing share of science graduates, yet they remain significantly underrepresented in research, leadership positions, and scientific publications. Multiple factors filter out women: we can face social exclusion, salary inequality, bias in hiring, difficulty negotiating, harassment, a motherhood penalty, bias in personal safety and risk, and biases in assumptions of inadequacy and wrongness. I know this well. Over the course of my employment history in biology and non-biology careers, across ten different jobs, I have personally faced at least one of these barriers in almost all my professional experiences. Luckily, I have also had some amazing mentors and colleagues who have supported me throughout my journey and have allowed me to advance my career and offer support to other women in the field. I hope young women can look to our team and see opportunities for their future. We need more women scientists, more women in conservation. Women lead with passion, expertise, resilience, and commitment. They can change the world—one urban canyon at a time.
Rights, equality, and empowerment: The pillars of International Women’s Day 2025 –UN Women
In 2025, the theme for International Women’s Day is “For Women and Girls in All Their Diversity: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment,” a call to action to expand equal rights, power, and opportunities for all.
This year marks a crucial milestone in the global pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment, as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This landmark framework lays the foundation for policies, programs, and investments that influence key areas of our lives, such as education, health, peace, media, political participation, eliminating violence against women and girls, and economic empowerment.
UN Women has launched a global call to share stories and messages surrounding International Women’s Day on digital platforms using the hashtag #ForAndByAll, aiming to inspire action.
Yolanda, María, and Jennifer embody both: action and inspiration.
They are all Mexican migrants living in the United States, and they are all entrepreneurs.
Despite arriving in the U.S. under unfavorable conditions—lacking academic preparation, financial resources, and English proficiency—they have carved out a place for themselves in a “foreign” land. Through entrepreneurship, they have achieved economic self-sufficiency, created jobs, contributed to the economy, and paid taxes, proving they can thrive without relying on others for employment and income.
Each has her own story, her reasons for migrating, and her struggles in the labor market as a migrant, undocumented worker, and woman in a society that still discriminates for all these reasons. Yet, they share a common thread: resilience, determination, and the belief that by working hard, educating themselves, and supporting one another, the American Dream can be for everyone.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A PATH TO STRENGTH AND SOLIDARITY
Seated around a table at Las Marías, Delicias Poblanas restaurant, sharing a plate of authentic rice and mole prepared with the hands, flavors, and culinary heritage that María Nieves brought from Atlixco, Mexico, to New Jersey, these Mexican entrepreneurs clasp hands and send a message of sisterhood to fellow migrant women: “Here, far from home, there’s no
MARÍA:
WHEN OTHER WOMEN COME TO ASK US HOW WE DID IT, HOW WE STARTED, WE SAY, "COME, WE'LL HELP YOU” WE ARE WOMEN WHO DECIDE THAT MIGRATION IS AN OPPORTUNITY INSTEAD OF A STUMBLING BLOCK IN OUR PATH.
Together, we are stronger. Don’t let go’
YOLANDA:
ENTREPRENEURS IN NEW JERSEY
room for competition. We lift each other up instead of pulling each other down,” says María Nieves, a Puebla native and restaurant owner.
“My dream was to move forward, to support my family financially. But within that dream, I realized that the only way to achieve it was through entrepreneurship,” she recalls.
On her journey, she met Yolanda García, a fellow Mexican from Oaxaca and a businesswoman who now owns the jewelry store Minor on French Street in New Brunswick, New Jersey—an area known for its thriving Mexican businesses.
Yolanda and María first met at a business fair where they were “competing.” Since then, they have walked parallel paths, sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and working to create better living conditions for others. Together, they continue to share experiences, knowledge, and opportunities with women like Jennifer Cortés, another Oaxaca native who owns Sabor Exprés, a restaurant where she prioritizes collaboration over competition.
“Rather than seeing ourselves as competitors, we see ourselves as a family, choosing to walk this path hand in hand,” Jennifer explains.
“Creating opportunities and generating jobs for other women—especially those seeking work—means more than just business; it’s gratifying,” she adds.
“We made the decision to walk this journey together, and nothing can stop us,” María concludes as she hosts this meeting of Mexican migrant women in collaboration with Heraldo USA.
THE NUMBERS: MEXICAN WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN THE U.S. According to a Global Business International (GBI) report, as of 2022, there were 1.2 million Mexican entrepreneurs in the United States, 49% of whom were women. This means that around 600,000 Mexican women own and operate successful businesses, a number that continues to grow. In 2021, the Mexican government launched the “Mexicana Emprende” program to support Mexican women living abroad in their entrepreneurial pursuits. By 2024, 1,566 women had participated in the program, which began with just 16 graduates in Phoenix, Arizona—a city where more than 60,000 businesses are owned by Hispanic women, approximately 50,000 of which belong to Mexican entrepreneurs.
BY: ANGÉLICA SIMÓN UGALDE ART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Mexican Women in the U.S.: Challenges and Contributions
ncreasingly, women have joined this phenomenon, which a couple of decades ago was predominantly composed of men. Particularly in the Americas, women represent 49.5% of migration flows. The reasons are diverse and multifactorial: lack of opportunities, marginalization, persecution, and, unfortunately, growing threats to their lives, along with institutional, family, and community violence, are forcing them to migrate.
From the moment they begin their journey, migrant women face additional risks due to their gender. In the last decade, female migration flows often include their children or entire families, making the journey even more dangerous and challenging.
In the case of migration between Mexico and the United States, starting in 2020, Mexico once again became the leading country of origin, with violence and the presence of organized crime groups in several states being key drivers. Notably, Mexican female
migration, primarily toward the United States, has increased significantly in recent years, rising from 68,182 in 2021 to 189,805 in 2023. This increase is even more striking among girls, whose numbers grew from 4,040 to 61,284 in the same period, highlighting a humanitarian crisis that requires reflection and gender-sensitive responses.
Currently, women represent 47.4% of the Mexican migrant population in the United States. Over generations, Mexican women have made significant contributions to the economic and social development of the host country. However, they still face major obstacles to full integration. Nevertheless, Mexican women play a key role in various economic sectors in the United States. The first generation is mainly concentrated in services and commerce (47.6%), while the second and third generations show increased participation in more specialized sectors, such as management,
business, and professional services, reaching 32.7% and 39.0%, respectively. This progress reflects greater integration and access to better job opportunities as they establish themselves in the country.
Notably, Mexican female migration, primarily toward the United professional services, reaching 32.7% States, has increased significantly in recent years
Educational attainment also shows positive progress. While only 2.2% of first-generation migrant women hold a master’s or doctoral degree, this percentage increases to 6.3% in the third generation. The proportion of women with a bachelor’s degree doubles between the first and second generations (from 12.9% to 23.2%), demonstrating growing participation in fields that require higher academic training. Despite these advances, wage inequalities and barriers to accessing leadership positions persist. The average annual salary varies significantly depending on generation and sector. For example, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), first-generation women
in services and commerce earn an average of $22,845 per year, while those in the professional sector earn $48,431. However, even within the latter group, their salaries are lower than those of their male counterparts and the general employee average in the United States. This wage gap is not exclusive to Mexican women. At the federal level, African American, Native American, and Latina women also face significant disparities. Hispanic and Latina women, who make up 4.5% of federal employees, earn an average of $67,816 per year—nearly $10,000 less than men of the same ethnicity and $11,462 less than the general female average. Additionally, their representation in leadership positions is limited, reflecting the challenges they face in accessing decision-making roles. In comparison, women in Mexico face similar obstacles, albeit in a different context. Despite their growing presence in higher education, only 45.6% participate in the labor market, compared to 77.5% of men. Additionally, Mexican women earn an average of 13.15% less than their male counterparts. Representation in leadership positions is even more
This March 8, Mexico will witness a historic event: International Women’s Day will be commemorated for the first time under the government of the country’s first female president— with an “A”.
BY: DANIELA ZAMBRANO
ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
The first wave of feminism in Mexico brought the First Feminist Congress, held on January 13, 1916, in Mérida, Yucatán. At this event, 700 women gathered to discuss women’s political citizenship, education, and more.
Just over five decades later, in 1971, Mujeres en Acció n Solidaria (Women in Solidarity Action), the first Mexican feminist movement, was born. Four years later, the United Nations (UN) declared March 8 as International Women’s Day, coinciding with the First World Conference on Women, a key event in the gender agenda held in Mexico.
Over time, women-led marches began to emerge, primarily driven by the fight against gender-based violence. This movement gained momentum following international events such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 1979; the World Conference on Human Rights and the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, both in 1993; the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence Against Women (also known as the Belém do Pará Convention) in 1994; and the Fourth World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995.
March 8 demonstrations gained significant public attention in 2020. That year, 80,000 participants took to the streets, according to official data from the Mexico City government, which was then led by Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.
By 2024, the march broke attendance records, with 180,000 people marching from different points towards Mexico City’s Zócalo, painting significant avenues such as Reforma and Avenida Juárez in shades of purple. That year, in addition to gender violence, other issues, such as the wage gap, were addressed.
This March 8, Mexican women will march under the leadership of a female president, with a Women’s Secretariat as part of the presidential cabinet, nearly two weeks after the First Latin American Summit of Digital Defenders, led by Olimpia Coral Melo, the primary advocate behind the Olimpia Law; and ahead of the 16th Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean, a one-of-a-kind global event, to be held in Mexico from August 12 to 15.
What are the expectations for this 8M?
The record-breaking attendance from last year is expected to be surpassed, with the participation of activists, academics, heads of households, teachers, engineers, scientists, nurses, firefighters, doctors, researchers, architects, lawyers, programmers, educators, psychologists, communication experts, journalists, artists, painters, mothers, friends… yes, all of them with an “A”.
ILUSTRATION:
EVERY MARCH 8, THOUSANDS OF WOMEN—FROM MEXICO TO JAPAN, TURKEY TO ARGENTINA—REGARDLESS OF RACE, CREED, ECONOMIC STATUS, POLITICAL BELIEFS,OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION, UNITE TO DEMAND A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE.
BY MARÍA ELENA ORANTES ILUSTRATION: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
The word “protest” comes from the Latin protestari, meaning “to declare a purpose,” but today, we use it to express our discontent against something. Feared by some and idolized by others, protest has been an essential part of the democratic process in every country; no society has ever gained rights without protesting. And although words fade over time, protest transcends. A clear example is that every March 8, thousands of women—from Mexico to Japan, Turkey to Argentina—regardless of race, creed, economic status, political beliefs,
MARCH 8 BECAME A REMINDER THAT WOMEN CONTINUE TO FACE MULTIPLE CHALLENGES, SUCH AS WAGE INEQUALITY AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
or sexual orientation, unite to demand a better quality of life.
Since 1975, the United Nations has commemorated March 8 as International Women’s Day (8M), but it is not a day of celebration. Instead, it calls for reflection on the importance of achieving gender equity and equality for the progress of humanity.
The history of March 8 is deep and painful, but it began long before the day was officially recognized. On March 8, 1857, a large group of female workers marched through the streets of New York, demanding better working conditions, higher wages, and reduced workday to ten hours. The police violently repressed them. Working conditions did not improve, and on March 8, 1908, the women workers
of the Cotton factory went on strike and remained inside the facility. Tragically, a fire broke out, killing 129 women.
In honor of these courageous women, the Second International Socialist Women’s Conference, led by Clara Zetkin, proclaimed March 8 International Women’s Day in 1910. A year later, Russian women marched to demand an end to World War I and protested against food shortages. More than a symbolic act, March 8 became a reminder that women continue to face multiple challenges, such as wage inequality, gender-based violence, and stereotypes—challenges that require a collective commitment and a call to action to keep fighting for a genuinely inclusive and equal society.
A CRY OF STRUGGLE AND HOPE
The History of March 8
…protest has been an essential part of the democratic process in evtery country.’ …regardless of race, creed, economic status, political beliefs, or sexual orientation, we unite to demand a better quality of life.’
…it is a day that calls for reflection on the importance of achieving gender equity and equality for the progress of humanity.’
The mortality of men is directly related to the formation of spaces of normalization of hegemonic and patriarchal violence; non-hegemonic masculinity would imply reducing male mortality to relevant percentages. In short, machismo kills.
For anthropologist Gayle Rubin, who analyzed the social construction of gender and the oppression of women as early as 1986, gender socialization agents in our society transmit the hegemonic model. These include the family, peer groups, the media, and schools.
Hegemonic masculinity is built through relationships of authority. From childhood, men “become men” with other men, among men, in complicity with them and in opposition to anything considered feminine.
MALE VIOLENCE AND DOMINANCE
Male violence linked to dominance manifests in countless ways worldwide. It is not limited to domestic violence against women, children, and adolescents; it also includes homophobia and violence between men.
The rise of violence should make us reflect on the society we want to build for the future. Will we be capable of teaching new models of masculinity that denounce machismo, misogyny, and homophobia? How would such a change impact future societies and their human relationships?
HEGEMONY AND MASCULINITY
According to various studies on the male life cycle and sexuality, hegemonic masculinity is a model based on gender relations in which one group imposes supremacy and domination over others.
This is where hegemony becomes problematic, as its historical agenda relies on the exercise of power through oppression, both over non-hegemonic men and women. Questioning masculinity and challenging hegemonic attitudes does not just mean creating a new world for women—it means reshaping the future for all living beings on Earth.
THE CONSEQUENCES OF HEGEMONIC MASCULINITY
Hegemonic masculinity directly affects social dynamics, normalizing violence-related scenarios such as organized crime, exploitation, forced labor, human trafficking, and drug addiction.
Violence becomes an essential trait within this model of masculinity. According to INEGI, in 2024, the homicide rate was 11.7 per 100,000 inhabitants; of this total, 2.6 were women and 21.2 were men. The primary method of homicide was firearm use, accounting for 73% of cases. It is important to note that statistical frameworks for measuring male deaths differ from those for women and girls due to gender-based distinctions.
MICROMACHISMOS: THE ROAD TO VIOLENCE
The issue goes beyond the ultimate expression of oppression against women—femicide. It is crucial to analyze all internalized behaviors that normalize violence, often unnoticed. Between micromachismo and femicide, the road is the same.
Author Miguel Lorente (Los hombres nue-
vos, 2009) argues that a new phenomenon has emerged: men’s movements advocating for gender equality due to the crisis of masculinity. This crisis could be defined as fracturing patriarchal structures and their increasing unsustainability over time.
However, Lorente is skeptical of this change. He argues that many men have only changed their rhetoric and appearance while their attitudes and beliefs remain unchanged.
Similarly, Luis Bonino Méndez, who coined the term “micromachismo,” states in his 2004 essay that these behaviors are comparable to tiny but highly damaging microbes.
According to Bonino, there are four types of micromachismos:
Utilitarian micromachismos: Strategies where men avoid responsibilities by delegating them to women under the guise of “helping” with stereotypical gender roles.
Covert micromachismos: Manipulative tactics where men subtly exert control over women through excuses, false negotiations, or victimization, coercing them to yield. Example: “If you loved me, you wouldn’t ask me to change.” Crisis micromachismos: Strategies aimed at maintaining the status quo, resisting change, or regaining dominance during times of imbalance, such as when women gain more autonomy.
Coercive micromachismos: Acts in which men impose their will through moral, psychological, or economic force, such as restricting communication, monopolizing time and space, or exerting financial control.
MASCULINITY IN CRISIS AND THE FUTURE
The process of deconstructing, unlearning, and redefining masculinity is endless, ongoing, and, above all, permanent. Patriarchy has existed for centuries, so dismantling it will not be an immediate achievement but a long-term endeavor.
Humanity is currently 89 seconds away from “the end of the world,” according to the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, which recently advanced the hands of the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic clock created in 1947 to warn of nuclear conflicts and global crises. This calculation considers wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, the return of Trump 2.0, extreme heat waves, and the climate crisis.
There is no escape: building an alternative form of masculinity could save our lives. It would increase life expectancy, foster equality, create positive male role models, and build equitable spaces.
Anti-patriarchal men’s collectives and new fathers challenging hegemonic masculinity are not just cracks in a damaging history—they are seeds of future change.
By questioning privilege, renouncing dominance, and embracing caregiving, men would reveal that true strength does not lie in control but in transformation.
Researcher Coral Herrera refers to these men as “dissidents.” But perhaps they should understand that their struggle is not an individual one—it is a political act that dismantles the rule of the old patriarchy.Building free masculinities is not an option—it is the only way to face the world ahead.
BY ALAN VARGAS
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
The Virtuoso Luxe Report 2025 emphasizes the growing popularity of wine, gastronomy, and wellness tourism, positioning Mexico—particularly Valle de Guadalupe—as an essential destination for discerning travelers.
Valle de Guadalupe:
A DESTINATION THAT WINS
OVER PALATES AND HEARTS
BY OSO OSEGUERA
Valle de Guadalupe is a paradise for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and travelers seeking unique experiences. With world-class wineries, toptier gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes, this Baja California gem is a must-visit destination in 2025.
amily travel, celebration trips, and food and wine experiences are expected to be among the most popular trends in 2025. At the same time, the demand for wellness experiences will also influence travel decisions, according to the Virtuoso Luxe Report 2025. Additionally, Mexico is well-positioned to meet all these interests.
One destination that embodies these trends is Valle de Guadalupe. This fertile valley is a paradise for food and wine enthusiasts, featuring over 150 wineries and award-winning restaurants. Its culinary scene is marked by innovative dishes created by chefs who are redefining Mexican cuisine.
THE IDEAL ITINERARY
Begin your journey in Tijuana, a vibrant city filled with history and energy. Located just steps from the U.S. border, Tijuana greets visitors with its eclectic assortment of food trucks and gastro parks. Its closeness to the Tijuana International Airport makes it an ideal starting point for a Baja California adventure.
Heading south, just 30 km from Tijuana, you’ll discover Rosarito, a coastal paradise for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, the ocean is yours to explore.
However, Rosarito offers more than just waves—it features a vibrant art scene that adds a cultural twist to your beach getaway. And while you’re
make Valle de Guadalupe a top wine destination in Mexico.
there, don’t miss the renowned lobster tacos with beans—a regional delicacy.
Further down the coast is Ensenada, a destination that effortlessly combines stunning natural beauty with culinary excellence. Featuring two national parks and a UNESCO-recognized gastronomy scene, Ensenada is a must-visit for wine lovers and food enthusiasts. This city produces 70% of Mexico’s wine, making it a paradise for oenophiles.
Traveling inland, you will arrive in Mexicali, the state capital. This city surprises visitors with a unique blend of Chinese culture, underground
THE WINE & GASTRONOMY SCENE
For those in search of outstanding wine, exquisite cuisine, and genuine indulgence, there are several must-visit wineries. These include a variety of classic establishments, innovative projects, and skilled winemakers crafting remarkable blends. These places do not offer just exceptional wines but also luxurious accommodations, lush gardens, and unforgettable sunsets.
LA BUFADORA
Located south of Ensenada, La Bufadora is among the region’s most significant natural tourist attractions, being the second largest marine geyser in the world.
Thousands of tourists come here every year to witness this spectacle, where, every minute, water and air are propelled upward, creating a tremendous surge that can reach heights of up to 30 meters.
When the swell is strong, the waves converge directly into a cave at the base of the reef through a submarine canyon that acts as a funnel, enhancing their strength.
Legend has it that during the migration of the gray whale from the cold seas of Alaska to the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, a baby whale is believed to have separated from the group to explore the coasts. Due to its inexperience, the little whale became stuck between the rocks. Despite screaming for hours for help from her group, she could not be heard, so she decided to gather all her strength and release one stream of water, then another, and another to attract attention.
However, the cliff where she was stuck was quite hidden, so the whales in the group couldn’t see the calf, and they stopped looking, continuing their way. As time passed, the small whale began to blend with the rocks that had trapped her until she turned to stone. This is why the intermittent stream of water flowing from the cliff in Ensenada is the lost little whale still calling for help.
MUSEUM OF THE VINE AND WINE
Finally, there’s a building in Valle de Guadalupe that isn’t a winery or restaurant… yet you can still enjoy good food and drinks here!
Established in 2012, this museum celebrates Baja California’s viticultural heritage and serves as an excellent addition to the region’s wine tours.
Designed by Eduardo Arjona, an architect based in Ensenada, the museum is located on land donated by L.A. Cetto Winery, which previously used the area for a vineyard.
WITH FOUR EXHIBITION HALLS, THE MUSEUM EXPLORES:
The origins of winemaking in the Caucasus and its early centuries.
The arrival of wine in Baja California, brought by missionaries.
The expansion of viticulture in the region.
The rise of Mexico’s modern wine industry.
Another section emphasizes the connection between wine and art.
tunnels, and a distinctive culinary scene. Be sure to explore La Chinesca, a district established by Chinese immigrants that has become a captivating tourist attraction.
Next on our journey is Tecate, a charming town designated as a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town).
Located on the U.S. border, Tecate is famous for its namesake beer and serves as the gateway to the legendary Ruta del Vino (Wine Route) in Valle de Guadalupe.
And then there’s Valle de Guadalupe—a treasure trove of culinary delights and exceptional wines where fine dining takes center stage.
In addition to exhibitions, the museum includes gardens, an open-air theater, a gift shop, and a café. Its enoteca (wine bar) boasts an excellent selection of regional wines, making it a perfect one-stop shop for stocking up on bottles from various wineries.
The museum is open Thursday through Sunday. For 100 pesos, you can enjoy wine tastings that showcase two different local wines.
The Valle de Guadalupe is more than just a wine region—it’s a destination that melds history, culture, and flavors in a way that enchants every traveler. Whether you’re a wine lover, a food enthusiast, or someone searching for unforgettable experiences, this hidden gem of Baja California guarantees to delight both the palate and the soul.
PHOTO: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
BY NAYELY RAMÍREZ MAYA ILUSTRATION: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
Colombian singer-songwriter Andrea Echeverri has been in the music scene for over three decades, both as part of Aterciopelados and as a solo artist. She was one of the first women to break into the Spanish-language rock scene and says she still maintains her rebellious spirit through her lyrics.
“Women are caught in a supposed liberation that is becoming more and more sexualized, while at the same time, more young people are struggling with anorexia and other serious issues. My rebellion is about defending my body from 59-yearold men who don’t diet or go to the gym,” Echeverri explained.
The Colombian vocalist aims to challenge stereotypes and the idea that feminism means women making money, but only by following the rules set by men. “I think it’s terrible and impoverishing for women in general, and it also contributes to increasing gender violence,” she said.
Andrea and Héctor Buitrago, her Aterciopelados bandmate, recently released their new album “Genes Rebeldes.” As part of the International Women’s Day context, they will be releasing three new songs: “Amor, no te vistas así” (Love, Don’t Dress Like That), “Ruana vs. Bikini,” and “Hembras mamíferas” (Mammal Females), all infused with humor. The last one, in particular, speaks about how women naturally gain weight and features a rap listing all her favorite foods. “I like to reaffirm my stance on these issues but also laugh at myself,” she shared.
For Andrea, “aging is an act of rebellion,” especially in the entertainment industry, where everyone wants to stay eternally young. “I see women my age who look like they’re 20. That’s why we also write songs about growing old—I think it’s about embracing life honestly,” she said. She expresses this fight through her music, recalling her feminist adaptation of “La Ingrata,” a classic Café Tacvba song.
The singer knows her role is to write critical yet fun songs that make people think and enjoy themselves. “We’re not in this industry to look pretty—we’re here to sing cool and say things that matter,” she stated.
For Héctor, addressing these issues in their music is a way of remaining alternative, staying independent, and questioning everything they see.
Regarding artificial intelligence, the musician acknowledges that, like any technology, it has advantages. That’s why they’re open to using it. For this new project, AI was utilized to creat the video for “Apocalipsis,” directed by Nicolás Caballero. The footage explores its arrival in a world of war and political corruption.
THROWING A PARTY
Aterciopelados are thrilled to reunite with their Mexican audience on March 16 at Estadio GNP, marking ten years since their last performance at Vive Latino. They are preparing a setlist filled with tracks they have created over the years.
“We’re excited! We were part of the first edition of Vive Latino, and the last time we played there was ten years ago. We’re releasing a new album, so it’s a vibrant and creative moment to return,” Andrea said.
Echeverri is also a ceramic artist and incorporates ceramic art into the album’s concept.
ROCKINGWITH FREEDOM
ANDREA ECHEVERRI, LEAD SINGER OF ATERCIOPELADOS, EXPRESSES HER REBELLION THROUGH HER LYRICS.
The year the band was formed.
1992 10
The number of studio albums they have released.
They consider Artificial Intelligence to be just another tool to use.
Their album “Genes Rebeldes” will be released on digital platforms in April.
At Vive Latino, they look forward to seeing Los Planetas and El Haragán y Cía perform.
With her example, Christy Martin-Salters has shown that resilience is something you build—whether inside or outside the ring.
BY ERIKA MONTOYA
U.S. world boxing champion Christy Martin-Salters made a promise to God in the very same hospital room where, just days earlier, a team of doctors had saved her life.
Her husband, Jim Martin, a man 25 years older than her, had tried to kill her—stabbing and shooting her—after she told him she was leaving him.
That she survived was a miracle. The bullet had passed just four inches from her heart, and though it collapsed one of her lungs, she lived to tell the story.
Christy fought 59 battles in the ring, but none like the one she faced outside of it in 2010. Yet, from that dark moment came a mission she has carried on ever since: to raise her voice against domestic violence.
“I asked God to let me help just one person before I died, to help them escape that situation. But then thought: no, I need to help someone every day of my life,” she told Heraldo USA in an interview.
Since then, Christy has combined her two great passions—boxing and activism—to spread awareness.
“Domestic violence isn’t always about bruises,” she warns.Her mission is to deliver a message of strength and prevention using the platform boxing gave her.
“Now, my most important title is that of a survivor,” she says. Martin seeks to inspire those facing similar situa-
THE DEFINITION OF A
tions through talks, books, and documentaries.
“I hope that by reading my story, someone finds the strength to say: ‘I deserve better than this,’” she says.
STILL FIGHTING—JUST WITHOUT GLOVES
Christy Martin-Salters is still fighting, not with punches, but with the unshakable determination of a champion.
Wherever she goes, she leaves an impact. Even 13 years after her retirement, her legacy continues to influence fighters like Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor, who have looked up to her as an inspiration for their careers.
Looking back, she describes her time in the ring as a “perfect storm”—being in the right place at the right time. Boxing wasn’t originally on her radar, but one day, she entered a college boxing competition meant only for men. A few years later, she shared fight cards with Mike Tyson, promoted by Don King, and fought in legendary venues like the MGM Grand and Madison Square Garden. It doesn’t get more significant than that.
“I didn’t realize what I was achieving because I was so caught up in the moment. But now, the more time passes, the more I understand how important my fight was,” she reflects.
She learned everything from Don King, including how to handle haters and turn criticism into fuel.
“There was a lot of backlash, but Don showed me it didn’t matter—as long as people said my name. And he was right. So many people come up to me now, after all these years, and recognize me as the one who opened the door for today’s female boxers. That’s something feel truly blessed about,” she says.
A LEGACY OF ELECTRIFYING FIGHTS
More than her championships, her most considerable pride is the fights she gave the world over her 23-year career. She had a clear mission in the ring: go bell to bell, land the big punch, and be more exciting than the men. That mindset secured her place in boxing history.
FROM FIGHTER TO PROMOTER
She’s never been one to turn her back on a challen-
ge. So, when the opportunity arose to jump into the boxing promotion business, the decision was more straightforward than it seemed.
Her status as a pioneer fighter helps her navigate this new, uncharted territory—once again, breaking barriers.Women’s presence in boxing promotion is still limited. Figures like Katy Duva and transgender promoter Kellie Maloney have made their mark, but major fight cards remain controlled by men.
But Martin has always thrived against the odds. She knows the road won’t be easy, but she’s determined to carve out space—just like she did as a fighter in the ‘90s.
“2025 will be my breakout year,” she declares, already preparing for events in California, Tennessee, and Florida.
CHANGING THE RULES OF THE GAME With the futures of eight fighters in her hands, Christy is ready to reshape the industry. She knows the dark sides of the business, and that’s why her goal goes beyond making money. She wants to support fighters as athletes and as human beings.
“Being a promoter is so much harder than being a fighter. As a boxer, you get in the ring and do your thing. But now, I’m responsible for ensuring all these young guys get to the ring. I care about them. want them to be better fathers, better husbands, better people. Boxing teaches them discipline and dedication,” she explains.
Christy Martin-Salters has never known how to live without a fight. Not because she loves combat but because she understands that some battles are necessary.They were necessary when she first stepped into the ring and challenged a male-dominated sport with every punch. When she survived violence—both physical and sexual—and turned her story into a beacon for other women.
And they’re necessary now as she faces a new
llenge: changing
She no longer wears
from
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
