Protest Erupts in Mexico City Over Gentrification and Rising Living Costs

The peaceful protest against the effects of tourism and gentrification in Mexico City turned violent, leading to significant damage to businesses. Officials condemned the violence while acknowledging the challenges that gentrification brings to local communities.

Protests erupted in Mexico City on Friday as residents voiced their frustrations over gentrification and escalating living costs, particularly linked to a surge in tourism. What began as a peaceful demonstration soon spiraled into chaos, resulting in property damage to numerous businesses in the city's upscale neighborhoods.

Hundreds took to the streets, brandishing placards with slogans denouncing the influx of foreign residents and the impact on local renters and businesses. Signs read phrases like “Your new home is an invasion” and “Expat = gentrifier,” reflecting deep-seated anger among locals who feel increasingly alienated in their own city.

As the protest neared the Condesa and Roma neighborhoods, a minority of the demonstrators began to vandalize storefronts, smashing windows and scrawling graffiti on walls. This sudden shift to violence led to the vandalization of at least fifteen businesses, including well-known chains like Starbucks, causing panic among shop owners.

City officials responded swiftly to the unrest, denouncing the violence while acknowledging the underlying issue of gentrification that has escalated in recent years. César Cravioto, the government's secretary, called for an end to violent protests that express xenophobic sentiments, affirming that Mexico City is a place of diversity and migration.

Governor Carla Brugada also expressed concern over the effects of gentrification, stating her administration was aware of the challenges it poses to long-time residents. She emphasized that the fight against gentrification should not veer into discrimination against newcomers, insisting on a more constructive approach to the city's housing crisis.

As areas like Roma and Condesa have become trendy among remote workers and tourists, rents have risen sharply, exacerbating socioeconomic disparities. The average monthly salary in Mexico City is around $370, making it increasingly difficult for many locals to afford basic living expenses amid the changing landscape.

Grassroots organizations, such as Frente Anti Gentrificación Mx, have framed the situation as a modern form of colonialism, urging residents to protest against what they view as “American imperialism.” Their statements reflect a broader global sentiment against unchecked tourism in cities experiencing similar affordability crises, with recent protests surfacing in Europe, suggesting a mounting pushback against the negative impacts of mass tourism.