**No Welcome for Narco Idolizers**
In a coordinated effort, authorities in both the United States and Mexico have made a stand against glorifying criminal figures, targeting the Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco. The band has found themselves with revoked U.S. work and tourist visas after they praised Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” during concerts in Jalisco and Michoacán. El Mencho is a notorious leader of the CJNG cartel, one of the most violent criminal organizations in Mexico.
Christopher Landau, a former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, announced the visa cancellations, asserting, “Freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom from consequences. We’re not rolling out the welcome mat for anyone glorifying criminals and terrorists.” His remarks highlight a zero-tolerance policy on both sides of the border against expressions that venerate organized crime figures.
In Mexico, the reaction was swift. President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for a thorough investigation, underscoring that such events “shouldn’t happen.” In Zapopan, local authorities filed a formal complaint with the Jalisco State Attorney’s Office against both the venue, the University of Guadalajara Auditorium, and the band. Additionally, Zapopan officials imposed a fine totaling 33,942 pesos, reinforcing that such tributes come at a cost.
This incident serves as a strong message that any form of adulation for cartel bosses is unwelcome and carries hefty consequences. Both countries are aligning in their stance against narco glorification, ensuring that accolades for criminals do not find a stage either in cowboy hats or business suits.
**Related Developments:**
**Narco Corrido Crackdown Extended in Tamaulipas**
In the wake of Los Alegres del Barranco’s visa revocation, another Mexican state, Tamaulipas, has announced measures to crack down on music that glorifies drug cartels. State authorities are working with concert organizers to double-check setlists and performing artists’ reputations. This move follows community outcry over the impact such music can have on young audiences, often glamorizing violence and criminal lifestyles.
Local officials stated, “It’s about safeguarding our communities and ensuring we do not celebrate the individuals who bring harm to them.” The state’s move has been backed by numerous civic organizations, urging other states to adopt similar policies.
Concert promoters in the region are now subject to a new protocol requiring formal approval of shows featuring potentially controversial content. The change aims to promote culture over crime and ensure that the stage uplifts positive social messages.
More Mexican states are expected to evaluate their policies as the debate over narco culture in music continues. The shift signifies a broader cultural battle, aiming to shift public admiration away from criminals and towards constructive role models.