A new source of controversy surrounds Mexican singer Christian Nodal, who is scheduled to offer a free concert on September 15 in the Historic Center of Morelia, as part of the Grito de Independencia festivities.
Feminist collectives, grouped under the Red de Colectivas Feministas Michoacán (RedCoFem), launched a petition on Change.org to demand the cancellation of the show, arguing that its hiring entails the use of public resources to celebrate someone linked to alleged behaviors of vicarious and economic violence.
The initiative gathered close to 2,000 signatures in its first days.
In their statement, the activists maintain that it is unacceptable that a person accused of controlling behavior towards his ex-partner, as publicly denounced in March by the singer Cazzu and other media, should be the central figure of a celebration that symbolizes justice, freedom and national unity.
They point out that allowing their participation “sends the wrong and harmful message to our future generations,” especially in a state with high rates of violence against women.
In addition, they question the transparency of the contracting with state resources: “It is outrageous that the Government of Michoacán decides to use public resources in the contracting of Christian Nodal…”, they express in the petition, and demand clarity in the selection process of artists for official events.
Will authorities cancel Aguilar and Christian Nodal’s show?
Despite the campaign and the signatures collected, Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla confirmed that the concert will continue and supported the government’s decision. He recognized the freedom of expression of the citizens, but insisted that the celebration must continue with its programming.
Simultaneously, a similar petition arose in Guadalajara against the concert of Pepe Aguilar and his children, Leonardo and Angela, also as part of the patriotic events.
The initiative points to comments perceived as offensive to migrants and accuses the Aguilar family of promoting exclusive narratives that do not represent the values of inclusion and dignity expected in public events financed by the public treasury.
The controversy surrounding Christian Nodal reveals a clash between cultural tradition and social conscience.
The groups involved demand that the symbols of the national holidays reflect integrity, equity and respect; they consider that allowing the participation of public figures involved in questions about family violence damages the institutional message.
Despite the pressure, the state government keeps the singer on the program, suggesting a latent tension between critical citizenship and political power.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
