By Delia Ruelas

Rosarito will have the first updated regulations that include the concepts of Indigenous peoples, Indigenous communities, and Afro-Mexicans.

The regulations replace the requirement for a census of Indigenous communities with a registry, aiming to protect the privacy of each person’s identity. It is expected that the next administration will implement this registry.

This modification will create a more structured system for applying the registry, said Councilwoman Sandra Jiménez, president of the Commission on Indigenous Affairs.

Additionally, the update aims to eradicate violence against Indigenous communities by providing access to translators in their native languages, allowing them to handle any legal process or interaction with authorities. The regulation’s name will change from “Regulation for the Attention of Indigenous Peoples” to “Regulation for Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Communities, and Afro-Mexicans.”

Moreover, the regulation seeks to ensure that members of Indigenous communities participate in the Council for Indigenous and Afro-Mexican Peoples.

Previously, more weight was given to the opinions of public officials. Now, it is proposed that Indigenous community members have a voice and vote on issues of significant importance to their people.

The proposal also suggests the participation of eight Indigenous and Afro-Mexican individuals, with an emphasis on gender parity.

“The goal is for it to be a council by the people and for the people,” said the councilwoman, who expressed hope that these regulations will be implemented during the next administration.