Governor Castro Reaffirms Commitment to Women's Rights in Baja California Sur

Commitment to Gender Equality

In a recent address during the Conference for the People, Governor Víctor Manuel Castro Cosío reiterated the commitment of the Baja California Sur state government to support women. He emphasized the necessity for women to be aware of their rights, receive adequate support, and live in environments characterized by respect, equality, and freedom from violence. This statement comes at a time when the state is intensifying its efforts to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality.

"For us, it is not just a declaration that women in the state have a space of respect, consideration, and tolerance. There must be proper attention to all groups and they must be respected,"

he stated.

The governor's remarks highlight the ongoing challenges faced by women in the region, where issues of violence and discrimination persist. Castro's administration is working closely with the Instituto Sudcaliforniano de las Mujeres (ISMUJERES) to address these challenges through various initiatives aimed at empowering women and ensuring their rights are upheld.

Initiatives and Programs by ISMUJERES

Berenice Serrato Flores, the head of ISMUJERES, provided insights into the programs being implemented to prevent and eradicate violence against women. The institute is actively engaged in community sensitization, citizen training, and providing specialized services for women experiencing violence. These initiatives are crucial for fostering a culture of respect and equality.

As part of their efforts, ISMUJERES has conducted 122 workshops focused on equal relationships, shared responsibility, and violence prevention, with participation from 1,496 men. Additionally, they have organized 182 talks on digital violence, reaching 3,320 young individuals. These programs aim to educate both men and women about the importance of equality and the need to challenge harmful cultural norms.

"We are promoting programs that not only address violence but also work towards building a society where women can thrive and be free from fear,"

Serrato Flores remarked.

Starting in 2024, ISMUJERES will also offer online courses on gender perspective aimed at government institutions and the general public. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to change cultural patterns that perpetuate inequality and violence, focusing on new masculinities, family democracy, and social participation.

The Path Forward

Governor Castro concluded his address by acknowledging the progress made in these areas and reaffirming the government's commitment to maintaining institutional coordination. He stressed the importance of creating conditions that allow women in Baja California Sur to fully exercise their rights and develop in safe, equal, and violence-free environments.

"We will continue to work together to ensure that women can live without fear and with the rights they deserve,"

he emphasized.

The ongoing efforts by the state government and ISMUJERES reflect a significant step towards addressing the systemic issues of gender inequality and violence in Baja California Sur. As these programs expand and evolve, the hope is that they will foster a more inclusive and equitable society for all women in the region.