Graphic by Brenna Connell/OutWrite
Content warning: hate crimes, discussion of death, suspected murder
On Monday, Nov. 13, reports of the death of nonbinary Mexican Magistrate Jesús Ociel Baena sent shock waves through the LGBTQ+ community.
Baena was found dead inside their home in Aguascalientes beside their partner Dorrian Herrera. Preliminary investigation of the scene revealed that the pair were found with injuries from a sharp object and no indication of a third person present, leading authorities to initially rule the deaths a murder-suicide committed by Herrera. However, the case is now being investigated further according to the New York Times, after demonstrations and vigils were held to call for justice in remembrance of the magistrate.
According to the New York Times, Mexico is ranked second in Latin America for the most hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community. For this reason, many believe Baena’s and Harrera’s deaths could have been a homicide and are demanding a thorough investigation into the matter.
Baena’s death was a great loss to the community given the milestones they reached for the LGBTQ+ community. Baena became the first nonbinary Mexican magistrate when they were appointed Oct. 2022. They were also the first in their state to have their gender labeled as nonbinary on their birth certificate and were among one of the first Mexican citizens to have their gender labeled as nonbinary on their passport.
Baena was known as a radiant source of inspiration for many. They were often pictured wearing their signature red lipstick and carrying a rainbow folding fan. They were very open and proud of their identity and often posted on social media.
Their death marks a loss in representation of LGBTQ+ people in government, and it is clear the magistrate will be missed in Aguascalientes politics and beyond. Baena’s death also has deeply worrying implications about hate crimes towards the queer community; it’s concerning to consider what it means for the regular citizen’s safety if not even a government official is safe from hate crimes.
In Mexico, the battle to legalize gay marriage in all states lasted for seven years, only ending in October of 2022. The news of the possible murder of Baena is a devastating step backward.
Credits:
Author: Maya Parra (She/Her)
Artist: Brenna Connell (She/They)
Copy Editors: Ariana Castro (She/Her), Emma Blakely (They/She/He)