Glamming up ‘dirty war’: Teens in Mexico glorify 1970s secret police on TikTok
In recent months, a concerning trend has emerged on TikTok among Mexican teens who are adopting the persona of agents from the country’s notorious 1970s secret police, known as the Federal Security Directorate (DFS). This trend, which has sparked significant debate and condemnation, glorifies a period marked by severe human rights abuses during Mexico’s “dirty war.”
The DFS and Its Dark Legacy
Founded in 1947 under the authoritarian rule of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), the DFS was Mexico’s equivalent of the FBI. Its primary role was to gather intelligence on subversive groups, spy on political opponents, and suppress any resistance to the regime. The agency became infamous in the late 1960s and early 1970s for its brutal tactics, including kidnapping, torture, and forced disappearances.
During this tumultuous period, the DFS was involved in heinous practices such as “death flights,” where suspected insurgents were taken to military bases, killed, and their bodies disposed of in the Pacific Ocean. Historian Sergio Aguayo notes that the DFS developed a ruthless strategy to eliminate guerrilla organizations that emerged during the 70s and 80s, showcasing the agency’s violent approach to maintaining control.
The TikTok Trend: A Disturbing Glorification
On TikTok, young users are using artificial intelligence to transform themselves into DFS agents, often depicting themselves in gray or brown suits, standing proudly in front of vintage cars like Cadillacs or Rolls-Royces. The videos are typically set to catchy Mexican music and feature captions that romanticize the DFS, such as:
“I would’ve loved to live in the 70s with my DFS badge, total impunity … smelling of whiskey and smoke with a shitload of money.”
This trend has raised alarms among various social media users, who argue that it trivializes the serious human rights violations committed by the DFS. Critics contend that such glorification of a violent past undermines collective memory and the ongoing struggles for justice in Mexico.
Understanding the Cultural Context
Experts suggest that the DFS TikTok trend reflects broader societal issues in Mexico, including the rise of the culture of violence and the normalization of corruption. Aguayo argues that these videos exemplify a shift in cultural values, where the pursuit of quick wealth and power overshadows ethical considerations.
Additionally, Irene Soria, a feminist scholar and digital culture expert, posits that the trend might be linked to the rise of the far-right in Mexico, which often positions itself in opposition to feminist movements. She notes that many young men participating in this trend may see themselves as part of a “macho-sphere” that rejects contemporary feminist ideals.
The Role of Women in the Trend
Interestingly, the trend is not limited to young men. Some women are also participating, either by portraying DFS agents or by adopting the roles of wives of high-ranking officials. This phenomenon can be compared to the “tradwife” movement in the United States, where women embrace traditional gender roles and reject modern feminist ideals. Soria highlights that a segment of young women expresses a desire for financial support from a partner, reflecting a complex interplay between gender roles and cultural identity.
Backlash and Resistance
In response to the glorification of the DFS, a backlash has emerged on TikTok. Some users have taken to the platform to remind others of the brutal history associated with the agency. One young woman poignantly stated:
“It’s incredible to see how a trend can override collective memory. We were NOT better off before; stop romanticizing one of the institutions that has done the most damage to the country.”
This pushback indicates a growing awareness among some segments of the youth about the importance of acknowledging and confronting historical injustices rather than glorifying them.
Conclusion
The trend of glamorizing the DFS on TikTok highlights a troubling intersection of nostalgia, violence, and cultural identity among Mexican youth. While some may view these videos as harmless fun, they serve as a stark reminder of the need for critical engagement with history and a commitment to justice. As the Mexican feminist movement continues to gain momentum, it is essential to foster discussions that honor the past while advocating for a more equitable future.
Note: The glorification of historical figures and institutions associated with violence and oppression can have profound implications for collective memory and societal values. It is crucial to engage with these topics thoughtfully and critically.
