Cancún Youth Band Allegedly Discriminated During Performance

Cancún, Mexico — A TikTok user identified as Miranda Plantea has publicly denounced an alleged act of discrimination against the local youth band Lili during a performance last Sunday at Puerto Cancún. The group, composed of young musicians from Cancún, was abruptly removed from the event despite having been formally invited by the plaza’s management.

Incident Details

According to Plantea’s video testimony, Lili—a band recognized nationally and internationally for its clean lyrics and positive messages—was performing for an audience of families, including parents, grandparents, and children, when private security personnel pressured them to end the concert prematurely.

"The concert was going incredibly well. Everyone was enjoying themselves—three generations gathered, all dancing together. Then, suddenly, some diners at a restaurant decided they didn’t like it," Plantea stated in her video.

The complaint alleges that staff from the restaurant Chenacolo requested security intervention, leading to hostile treatment of the musicians. Despite parents of the band members presenting evidence of the official invitation, security personnel began dismantling chairs and surrounding the performance area. "They treated them like vandals," Plantea accused.

Contrasting Reactions

While the restaurant’s staff reportedly opposed the performance, managers of nearby businesses applauded the show. "Other restaurant managers were filming and celebrating the performance," Plantea noted.

She also highlighted the lack of cultural and recreational spaces for young people in Cancún, stating, "It’s easy to complain about teenagers, but when they find spaces to express themselves, we take them away." Plantea emphasized that Lili represents the kind of positive, talented youth that should be encouraged.

Regional Disparity

The band has faced contrasting receptions in different parts of Quintana Roo. While they have been repeatedly invited to official events in Playa del Carmen—where local authorities recognize them as role models for youth—their experience in Puerto Cancún has been markedly different.

"The Playa del Carmen municipal government sees them as a group that projects a positive image for young people. Why can’t we do the same here?" Plantea questioned.

No Official Response

As of now, neither Puerto Cancún’s administration nor Chenacolo has issued an official statement regarding the incident.