Afro-Mexican communities and political participation in elections: affirmative action and collective subjects

Abstract

This article examines the implementation of the affirmative action measure introduced by the National Electoral Institute (INE) in 2021 to guarantee the electoral participation of Afromexican people. Based on ethnographic observation, interviews, and fieldwork carried
out during the 2021 and 2024 electoral processes, it
evaluates the challenges of achieving substantive representation beyond symbolic inclusion. The main findings reveal a gap between self-identification and community belonging, as well as tensions with political parties, which often co-opt or disregard the agendas of the Afromexican movement. The limitations identified include
the lack of prior consultation, the absence of mechanisms for community verification, and weak territorial linkages. This study is valuable for documenting an emerging field in Mexico and for highlighting the need to redesign such measures. The conclusion is that affirmative action, as currently designed, is insufficient; it is necessary to strengthen the participation of the Afromexican collective subject in order to advance toward full political citizenship.