by El Reportero’s staff, with reports
In response to the growing wave of series, songs and social media content that glorify drug cartels, a group of citizens has launched the movement “Turn Off Narcoculture.” The initiative seeks to curb the normalization of violence and the public praise of criminal groups in everyday life. Organizers warn that constant exposure to narratives portraying cartel leaders as admirable figures is shaping how young people perceive them, often without understanding the real harm drug trafficking inflicts on communities.
The movement emerged from conversations among concerned families, educators and cultural activists who have observed how criminal aesthetics have spread across entertainment platforms. According to its founders, this narrative not only glorifies cartel activity but also trivializes the tragedies experienced by people living under the threat of extortion, armed violence and displacement.
A central focus of “Turn Off Narcoculture” is promoting open dialogue at home so that parents can discuss with their children the content they consume. The goal is not to ban music or TV shows, but to provide context about the real consequences of the drug trade: broken families, weakened local economies and entire generations affected by insecurity. By understanding these realities, youth can develop a more critical view and be less vulnerable to the appeal of figures associated with power and violence.
The movement also leads educational workshops in schools and community centers, where students examine how narratives that idealize criminals are constructed. These activities aim to strengthen critical thinking and to help young people recognize the manipulation present in some entertainment formats.
At the same time, “Turn Off Narcoculture” collaborates with local artists, independent musicians and youth groups to promote alternative cultural content. The initiative highlights stories of resilience, creativity and community leadership that offer positive role models. Organizers emphasize that providing constructive cultural options is essential to steering young audiences away from narratives rooted in criminality.
The movement is also active on digital platforms, sharing messages and testimonies that explain how the glorification of organized crime influences society’s perception of power and success. These efforts seek to counteract the saturation of images that romanticize the lives of drug traffickers while ignoring the human and economic consequences of their actions.
Founders say the initiative will continue to grow with the support of educators and community leaders, with the goal of promoting a long-lasting cultural shift that reduces the social appeal of violence.
