Key Takeaways:
– Three people, including a local leader of La Santa Muerte cult, were shot dead in Leon, Guanajuato.
– Eight additional victims were injured in the attack, including two children.
– The shooting occurred amidst an annual Santa Muerte celebration.
– Guanajuato faces increased violence due to a territorial feud between rival drug cartels.
– The US State Department encourages reconsideration of travel to Guanajuato.
Unpacking the Attack on the Folk Saint Cult Event
Guanajuato, a state in Mexico, was shaken by a deadly incident late Friday. Notable amongst the casualties was a local leader of a cult dedicated to “La Santa Muerte” or “The Holy Death”. The notorious figure, revered by convicts, drug addicts, and criminals, is not recognized by the Roman Catholic Church but followed by many for protection from death.
A Scene of Chaos and Confusion
The unfortunate incident unfolded at a street corner altar in the city of Leon. The cult leader, “La Madrina Chayo”, was among those killed during the attack. She was preparing the annual Santa Muerte celebration, which aligns with Mexico’s Day of the Dead holiday observed on November 1st and 2nd. In addition to her, another woman and a young boy lost their lives while eight others sustained injuries.
Guanajuato: A Turbulent State
Understanding the violence unraveling in Guanajuato requires a glimpse into its ongoing drug war. The state, which has the highest number of homicides in Mexico, has been a battleground for rival drug cartels for years. Two of the most prominent cartels, the Santa Rosa de Lima and the Jalisco New Generation, are currently at odds, with the turf battle escalating to disturbing levels.
Escalating Violence and Its Toll on Innocents
The ripple effect of the cartel rivalry has led to increased murder rates with victims often bearing gunshot wounds and signs of torture. Innocent bystanders have also been casualties in this cartel feud. Recent victims include a baby, a toddler, and four individuals at a rehabilitation center. The increased violence has provoked the US State Department to issue a travel advisory, urging Americans to reconsider travel plans to Guanajuato.
Understanding the Cult: More than Meets the Eye
The La Santa Muerte cult, despite its association with drug dealers and criminals, also draws individuals experiencing hardship in life. Described as a female skeleton, arrayed in a black nun’s robe, the figure of Santa Muerte offers a beacon of hope for those seeking protection from misdeeds, yearning for vengeance, or seeking job improvement. Some even ask her protection for their drug shipments and a way to evade law enforcement.
Although the cult may seem menacing, their annual celebrations are typically harmonious, with followers greeting each other warmly and exchanging gifts. Despite the recent violent disruption of this peaceful gathering, the vast majority of followers of La Santa Muerte continue their faith, undeterred by the violence they face.
Condemnation from Catholic Leaders
Despite its popularity among marginalized communities, official Roman Catholic leaders in Mexico disapprove of Santa Muerte’s association with violence and the illegal drug trade. They argue that such associations tarnish religious observance and perpetuate negative stereotypes about faith-based belief systems.
Final Notes
The attack at the altar of La Santa Muerte is but one instance of violence in a state ruled by fear and disrupted by powerful drug cartels. It serves as a harsh reminder of the price ordinary citizens pay when power struggles and illicit activities dominate their neighborhoods. Vigilance and law enforcement will be necessary to restore peace and security in the embattled state of Guanajuato.