Racism in Mexico

Racism in Mexico (Spanish: Racismo en México) refers to the social phenomenon in which behaviors of discrimination, prejudice, and any form of antagonism are directed against people in that country due to their race, ethnicity, skin color, language, or physical complexion. It may also refer to the treatment and sense of superiority of one race over another.

Racism in Mexico has a long history.^[1][2] It is understood to be inherited from the caste system of the colonial period.^[2] However, this was not a rigid system, nor explicitly about race.^[3] In general today, people who are black and indigenous make up nearly all of the peasantry and working classes, while lighter-skinned Mexicans – many being criollo, directly of Spanish descent – are in the ruling elite.^[4] "According to INEGI, skin color continues to be a factor in social stratification... with lighter skin color, [there are] more opportunities to have better paid jobs and better managerial positions."^[5]

Additionally, racism and xenophobia are closely linked in Mexico. There are a number of historic and recent examples that include legally barring certain nationalities and ethnicities entry into the country, insensitive treatment and stereotyping of other races, and the notorious 1903 Torreón massacre of a Chinese community.