Xóchitl Gálvez and Claudia Sheinbaum Emerge as Leading Candidates in Mexico's 2024 Presidential Race

As Mexico prepares for its 2024 presidential election, two women have surfaced as the primary candidates: Xóchitl Gálvez of the center-right National Action Party (PAN) and Claudia Sheinbaum of the left-wing National Regeneration Movement (Morena). The prominence of these leading candidates has not only garnered the nation's attention but has also brought the creations of Mexico's Indigenous weavers into focus.

Both Gálvez and Sheinbaum have been seen wearing traditional Indigenous clothing on the campaign trail, particularly the huipil, a brightly colored and intricately embroidered blouse. Gálvez has worn Indigenous garments since entering politics more than two decades ago, while Sheinbaum has also incorporated these traditional textiles in her bid for the presidency.

The visibility of these garments in the election has elicited mixed feelings among the artisans who create them. While some value the recognition and potential for increased sales, others are concerned about the clothing being used merely as a costume or for attention-seeking purposes. "We must be very careful that our clothing is not used as a costume," warned Angelina Martínez, a weaver from the state of Oaxaca.

The use of Indigenous designs by politicians is part of the "electoral game," according to Luz Ruiz, a professor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. It reflects a broader shift in Mexican society towards greater appreciation and prestige for these cultural traditions, which were once seen as shameful. However, concerns about cultural appropriation persist, particularly when it comes to major foreign brands reproducing Indigenous textiles.

Why this matters: The 2024 Mexican presidential election not only has the potential to make history by electing the country's first woman president but also highlights the growing recognition and importance of Indigenous cultural heritage in national politics. The prominence of traditional textiles in the campaign reflects a shift in societal attitudes and could have implications for the preservation and promotion of Indigenous art and design.

As the race continues, voters will have the opportunity to compare Gálvez and Sheinbaum in the second presidential debate on April 28, where topics such as the economy, security, and social issues will be discussed. The election will take place against the backdrop of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's legacy, with Sheinbaum proposing to <a href="

Key Takeaways

• Two women, Xóchitl Gálvez and Claudia Sheinbaum, are leading candidates in Mexico's 2024 election.
• Both candidates have worn traditional Indigenous clothing, particularly the huipil blouse, on the campaign trail.
• The visibility of these garments has elicited mixed feelings among the artisans who create them.
• The use of Indigenous designs by politicians reflects a shift in Mexican society towards greater appreciation for cultural traditions.
• The election could make history by electing Mexico's first woman president and highlight the importance of Indigenous cultural heritage in national politics.