(LifeSiteNews) — A state-sponsored light show projected onto the façade of Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral sparked criticism this week for including references to legalized abortion as part of the city’s historical “milestones.”
The nightly audiovisual presentation, titled Memoria Luminosa: México Tenochtitlan 700 años, covers major cultural and political events in Mexico’s history – from its Aztec past to the Spanish conquest to modern political developments. It commemorated the arrival of Hernán Cortés in 1519 and the election of Mexico City’s female mayors.
One portion, however, celebrated the legalization of abortion in the capital – a decision that quickly drew a formal rebuke from Church officials.
In a statement, the Archdiocese of Mexico City called the images “deeply wounding,” noting that the projection of pro-abortion content directly onto the cathedral itself contradicted the sacred character of the cathedral and the faith it embodies.
Initially, Mexico City’s Culture Secretariat defended the presentation, stating it was meant to reflect key historical and social turning points. “We do not aim to offend any form of devotion or religious principle,” its statement said.
However, officials confirmed that after July 15, all references to abortion were quietly removed from the show. The Secretariat acknowledged the Archdiocese’s objections and agreed to “act accordingly.” It remains unclear whether the deleted segment will be displayed in other venues or has been shelved entirely.
The controversy illustrates an ongoing struggle over the symbolic use of public spaces in Mexico. Less than a month ago, 11 people were murdered and 20 wounded when gunmen opened fire during a Catholic religious festival in Guanajuato, on the feast of St. John the Baptist.
Meanwhile, the country’s cultural elites increasingly embrace narratives that conflict with Catholic teaching. While abortion remains a divisive issue, the clash over its public celebration on the country’s most prominent cathedral suggests limits to how far the government can push without sparking resistance.
The show continues nightly as of July 18, minus the abortion segment.
