Mexico City residents protest against gentrification
Hundreds of people in Mexico City have marched against gentrification in the capital. Since the pandemic, the city has been “flooded” by foreigners, especially those from America and Europe, lured by its low cost of living and the possibility of remote work.
Since then, neighbourhoods in the city centre have changed, with many local businesses being replaced with wine bars, cafes, and Pilates studios. Rent prices have skyrocketed, pricing many locals out of the areas. Many blame the housing crisis in Mexico City on the new arrivals, and not just expats; there are more than 35,000 Airbnbs operating there.
A march against gentrification has seen hundreds coming out into the streets. Protesters are demanding that leaders do something about short-term rentals and are calling for a tax on foreigners. The march, which included signs saying “gringos go home,” was on 4th July, American Independence Day, being promoted as being against “American imperialism,” and passed by the US Embassy. It was mostly peaceful, but later, some turned to vandalising storefronts, including a taco chain and a Starbucks.
Video footage showed protesters harassing tourists at an upscale venue until they left. Some targeted by the protesters however said that they were Mexican and not foreign, even showing identification cards.
These have been similar to other protests against mass tourism and its impact on housing elsewhere. Barcelona and Berlin have both seen similar marches.
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