Sheinbaum Condemns Xenophobia, Discusses Gentrification Actions at Press Conference

• Claudia Sheinbaum condemns xenophobia during press conference.
• Protests against gentrification in Mexico City highlight local frustrations.
• Government plans to regulate rents in neighborhoods like Condesa.
• Delays announced for the new train line to Felipe Ángeles International Airport.

Sheinbaum Responds to Gentrification Concerns

President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed concerns regarding a recent protest in Mexico City during her mañanera on Monday, calling out the xenophobia expressed during the anti-gentrification event that occurred last Friday. Protesters rallied under the banner “Gentrification is not progress, it’s dispossession,” voicing their frustrations directed at American expats moving into neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma. The influx of these newcomers has, according to locals, led to skyrocketing rents, creating unrest amongst long-standing residents who feel priced out of their own communities.

A Call for Inclusion Amid Protests

Sheinbaum’s remarks condemned the xenophobic actions seen at the protest and emphasized Mexico’s historical openness to people of all nationalities. “All human beings are equal, and we cannot treat anyone as less than ourselves,” she stated, urging citizens to reject any forms of discrimination—highlighting that the nation has a proud legacy of welcoming diverse groups in times of need. The president acknowledged that while the fight against gentrification is valid, hostility towards any nationality should never be acceptable, reinforcing the need for inclusivity in Mexico City amidst ongoing gentrification pressures.

Government Actions Against Real Estate Speculation

In addition to discussing the protest, Sheinbaum issued a statement on the effects of gentrification, attributing it largely to the rise of real estate speculation influenced by the demand for rental accommodations in the wake of the pandemic. She described it as a challenge precipitated by digital nomads seeking temporary residence in Mexico City, especially from the United States. The president confirmed plans to launch regulatory measures aimed at stabilizing rising living costs in popular areas, reaffirming that gentrification must not displace long-term residents.

President Claudia Sheinbaum’s comments during her Monday mañanera brought to light the growing tension around gentrification in Mexico City, along with a stern condemnation of xenophobia. She outlined her commitment to address both issues, advocating for greater inclusion and regulatory frameworks to prevent long-term residents from being priced out. Additionally, plans for the delayed train line to Felipe Ángeles International Airport illustrate the challenges and complexities the administration continues to navigate in urban development.