IP condemns violence at Mexico City anti-gentrification march: "It creates uncertainty for investments."

Various business organizations in Mexico City condemned the acts of violence against businesses, consumers, and pedestrians in the Condesa, Roma, and Doctores neighborhoods, which occurred on July 4th during a demonstration against gentrification, as it damages the image of Mexico City and violates the rule of law.

Merchants, industrialists, and service sector entrepreneurs from Canacintra, Canirac, Coparmex, Canaco, Canadevi, the Real Estate Association, ANTAD, and CMIC expressed concern and strongly condemned the vandalism perpetrated by residents in the Cuauhtémoc municipality.

During the march held by residents and some radical groups against gentrification, an action they argue is dispossessing their residential areas, with preference for foreigners, passersby were attacked and commercial establishments were damaged, affecting workers, entrepreneurs, tourists, and the operation of businesses.

Business organizations argued that putting the physical integrity of citizens and tourists at risk "violates the rule of law and seriously damages Mexico City's image worldwide, generating uncertainty for national and international investment at a strategic time leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when the country must project itself as an open, safe, and prosperous destination for all."

The capital's business community strongly rejects any form of violence; however, these types of concerns must be addressed seriously by the relevant authorities to ensure inclusive, sustainable, and fair urban development that benefits both those who visit the capital and those who live, work, and sustain Mexico City on a daily basis.

The capital's business sector stated that the right to free expression is unrestricted, but "no cause justifies violence, intimidation, or the destruction of the assets of those who generate employment, development, and opportunities for thousands of Mexican families."

They considered that the authorities must ensure compliance with the current legal framework to protect those who choose to live in this city.

They urged action and construction based on dialogue, inclusion, and mutual respect. "Mexico City deserves to continue being a beacon of democratic, plural, and constructive coexistence, where differences are resolved without violence and with a vision for the future, and where dialogue is always stronger than confrontation."

We are convinced that together we can create solutions and promote programs that offer affordable housing for all family configurations, both young and old. The diversity of our communities deserves to be reflected in our housing solutions, stated the Mexico City IP.