Discrimination Persists in Cancun; Authorities Urge Victims to Report Hate Speech and Attacks

Cancun, Quintana Roo — Despite widespread hate speech and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community on social media, formal complaints remain scarce, according to Edgar Mora, director of Human Rights and Priority Groups for the Benito Juárez municipal government.

Speaking during LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Mora acknowledged that digital platforms have become common spaces for offensive comments, threats, and messages that can incite hatred against members of the diverse community.

“Unfortunately, we have seen multiple aggressions — not just comments but even threats. However, much of that reporting stays on social media, and that doesn’t help us generate statistics or apply sanctions,” he said.

Mora urged affected individuals to file formal complaints with the State Prosecutor’s Office, the National Council to Prevent Discrimination (Conapred), or the municipal Human Rights Department to ensure each case is followed up and impunity is avoided.

He noted that the department has received about 10 discrimination-related complaints this year. One notable case involved a person who reported being discriminated against due to obesity, which led to workplace repercussions.

The official emphasized that discrimination should never be normalized, whether based on sexual orientation, gender identity, physical appearance, disability, or any other condition.

He reminded that discrimination is a crime in Quintana Roo, and victims have legal mechanisms to defend their rights. Although most cases begin with conciliation and awareness stages, authorities stressed the need to strengthen a culture of reporting to gauge the problem’s scope and ensure sanctions when necessary.

The Human Rights and Priority Groups Department, located at Plaza Centro on Avenida Nader, provides support to discrimination victims, including cases involving municipal public servants.

“Freedom of expression is one thing; attacking and aggressing is quite another. Let’s not normalize violence or discrimination. If someone feels their rights are violated, it’s important to go to the appropriate authorities and file a complaint,” Mora concluded.