Monterrey.- Marisol González, the local deputy of Movimiento Ciudadano, recently unveiled several initiatives aimed at enhancing the rights and protection of older adults across Nuevo León. Aiming to tackle the alarming rates of violence faced by this vulnerable group, Gonzalez proposed the establishment of municipal defenders specialized in responding to cases of abuse. "Con esta reforma, buscamos que también sean sancionadores en casos de abuso hacia los adultos mayores, como el despojo de pensiones o el abuso físico y sexual," she stated, emphasizing the need for clearer regulations and enforcement mechanisms to protect the elderly from psychological and physical harm.
The proposed defenders would be integral for providing comprehensive support to older adults, ensuring their issues are properly addressed. They would include legal, psychological, and social work support, thereby guaranteeing continuous attention to the well-being of the elderly populace, as outlined by Gonzalez. This initiative is not only about harm reduction but also focuses on preventative measures, aiming to decrease the apparent hesitance of older adults to report cases of abuse due to uncertainty about the outcomes.
González also addressed the financial concerns of the elderly and proposed reforms to the municipal tax laws, particularly concerning special property tax rates for older adults and individuals with disabilities. "Los contribuyentes que cumplan con los requisitos establecidos por la ley puedan obtener este beneficio sin obstáculos administrativos," she insisted, urging municipalities to establish clear regulations to facilitate access to these fiscal benefits.
Meanwhile, Marisol Pinzón Sierra, the Secretary of Social Development of Santander, discussed her department's advancements and challenges over the past year. Pinzón shared the significant successes of her management, especially detailing the implementation of programs addressing social inclusion and mental health. With 80% of her departmental objectives met, she noted challenges primarily linked to bureaucratic processes encountered at the start of her term. Nevertheless, the department managed to launch key projects targeting health and the prevention of substance abuse among vulnerable populations.
"El impacto fue positivo, aunque hay aspectos que mejorar. El año entrante lo fortaleceremos con el apoyo de las Secretarías de Salud, Mujer y Educación para llevarlo directamente a más territorios," expressed Pinzón, reflecting on the positive feedback from the community about these initiatives. One highlighted project, ‘Métale Mente’, focused on mental health intervention and successfully assisted 4,900 individuals within two and half months.
Further broadening her portfolio, Pinzón highlighted the importance of preventative measures especially against growing substance abuse among children as young as six or seven. "It's urgent to tackle this issue head-on to prevent these behaviors from taking root," she stated, underscoring her commitment to youth welfare.
Pinzón also celebrated the success of the recent Taxista Day event, which brought together over 800 taxi drivers and their families, fostering dialogue about security and working conditions with local officials. She aims to make this event annual, enhancing community support for the transportation sector.
Beyond these initiatives, Pinzón continues to prioritize older adults by implementing projects such as installing solar panels at elderly care centers, drastically reducing energy costs — as much as 70% — allowing resources to be redirected toward other urgent needs. "Con estos paneles solares podemos reducir hasta un 70% en el costo de la energía,” she added, highlighting how these changes significantly benefit community centers.
Throughout 2024, as the Secretary’s office has worked diligently with marginalized populations, her focus has extended to the LGBTIQ+ community, providing entrepreneurial opportunities through training and resources, helping break societal barriers and promote inclusivity. Pinzón aims to create impactful initiatives, all the more pressing as limitations exist with available public resources.
Despite challenges, both González and Pinzón demonstrate persistence and commitment to their respective causes. Their efforts and initiatives stand as testaments to their dedication to improving the lives of their constituents, particularly among the elderly, economically disadvantaged, and marginalized communities. Their plans for the forthcoming year highlight optimism and resolve to continue their work, making tangible differences within their communities.
These ambitious social projects reflect the growing need for systemic changes to protect and empower vulnerable populations. Through their collective efforts, González and Pinzón embody the proactive approach required to address the challenges faced by their respective communities today.
