**Rising Violence Against Women in Baja California: Vanessa García Speaks Out**
Vanessa García has been appointed as the new president of the United Women’s Network of Baja California AC for the 2024-2025 term, succeeding Georgina Eréndira Arana Cruz. Taking on this pivotal role, García expressed her commitment at a crucial time for gender equality, emphasizing the collective effort needed to create a world where gender equity is the standard.
García highlighted the growing necessity for women to raise their voices for justice and equity, as Baja California ranks among the highest states in violence against women. From January to October 2024 alone, the region recorded 29 feminicides, according to data from the National Executive Secretariat of Public Security. The numbers could be even higher since not all female homicides are classified as feminicides. With 222 female homicide cases reported so far in 2024, Baja California stands eighth in the national ranking for feminicides, up from thirteenth in 2023.
The cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, unfortunately, rank among the top five municipalities nationwide for crimes associated with femicide violence, such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, injuries, and intentional homicides, with Tijuana occupying the second position.
García pointed out that this situation stems from inadequate protocols, often leading to the re-victimization of victims. The agencies responsible for protection often lack the capacity to safeguard women who report such crimes and are granted protective orders. García reaffirmed her commitment to listen, support, and tirelessly work so that every woman can thrive without being subjected to discrimination and violence.
“I am confident that by working together, we can make significant progress in securing our rights and building a more equitable society for future generations of women. With the strength of our unity, there is no barrier we cannot overcome,” García stated in her speech.
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**Secondary Article: Baja California’s Legal System and the Challenge of Combating Gender Violence**
In recent months, the alarming rise in gender violence cases in Baja California has prompted legal experts and human rights advocates to call for reform within the state’s justice system. Despite efforts to enhance protective measures for women, systemic issues remain, largely due to insufficient training and resources available to law enforcement and legal personnel.
There’s growing advocacy for establishing specialized gender violence units with adequately trained officers who can handle threats effectively and empathetically. Community workshops and awareness campaigns aim to shift societal attitudes, highlighting the role each individual plays in creating a safer environment for women.
Furthermore, collaboration between government bodies and non-governmental organizations has become crucial in bridging gaps within the system. By strengthening the alliances among stakeholders, Baja California endeavors to offer comprehensive support to survivors while working to eradicate the root causes of gender violence.
This collaborative effort represents a significant step towards a more equitable society, reinforcing the hope that targeted actions and awareness will lead to a notable decline in gender-based violence in the future.