The death of non-binary magistrate Jesús Ociel Baena in Mexico has sparked outrage and demands for justice from the LGBTQ+ community. Baena, a prominent figure for queer visibility, was found dead alongside their partner. LGBTQ+ Mexicans reject the government's initial claims that the deaths were a "personal matter" and believe they were fueled by hate, discrimination, and violence. Protests have taken place across the country, with demonstrators demanding justice and an end to the routine mistreatment of the LGBTQ+ community. Baena's visibility on social media made them a target for hate messages and threats, highlighting the need for authorities to consider this context in their investigation.
Thousands gather in Mexico City to demand justice and honor Jesus Ociel Baena, Mexico's first openly nonbinary magistrate and LGBTQ+ rights campaigner, who was found dead alongside their partner. Baena's death has sparked protests and calls for a thorough investigation, as they had received threats and hate messages due to their activism. LGBTQ+ rights advocates fear that this crime could intimidate and incite violence against the community. Mexico has seen high rates of discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, with hundreds of hate crimes reported in recent years.
Ociel Baena, Mexico's first openly non-binary magistrate and LGBTQ+ activist, was found dead at home in Aguascalientes. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, which is currently unknown. Baena's body was found alongside another person, believed to be their partner. Preliminary findings suggest it may have been a "personal matter." LGBTQ+ activists are calling for a full investigation into Baena's death, while human rights organizations are questioning if it was related to their gender identity. The former chief justice of Mexico's Supreme Court expressed deep sorrow over Baena's passing, highlighting their advocacy for equality and LGBTI+ rights.
Jesús Ociel Baena, Mexico's first openly non-binary magistrate and LGBTQ+ activist, has been found dead at their home in Aguascalientes, alongside their partner. The cause of death is currently unknown, and authorities are investigating whether it was a homicide or accident. Baena had received hate messages and threats of violence, but was breaking barriers for the non-binary community. They became a magistrate in October 2022 and were among the first to receive a gender-neutral passport in June. LGBTQ+ rights groups are urging a thorough and unbiased investigation into the deaths.
The South Carolina Supreme Court has suspended Georgetown County Magistrate James McKenzie for repeatedly failing to report for duty at the Georgetown County Magistrate Court. Chief Justice Donald Beatty called this a dereliction of duty and stated that it undermines the fair administration of justice. McKenzie's suspension is effective immediately and without compensation from Georgetown County. The court order will be distributed to all summary court judges, urging them to evaluate their own procedures and be present during working hours.
