Iris Marín Ortiz, Ombudsman, addressed a letter to the renowned Colombian reggaeton artists Dilan (DFZM), Maluma, Feid, Blessd, Ryan Castro, J Balvin and Karol G, on the occasion of the recent song they released and its content, which she considers loaded with messages that “they reproduce sexist and violent schemes”.
Marín, who highlights the success and influence of these artists in Colombia and the world, reminds them of their career and the role they have had in the popularization of reggaeton as a flag of Latin culture.. In her message, Marín does not minimize the importance of reggaeton as an artistic and cultural expression, but she does emphasize that some songs present stereotypes that promote the exploitation and objectification of women.
Referring to the released song, Marín specifically criticized how it describes a woman “who has an owner and who escapes”, questioning the idea that a woman can be “property” of someone and that she must “escape” to enjoy your freedom. Furthermore, in his letter he denounces how tourism in cities like Medellín and other areas of the country has been affected by the rise of sexual exploitation, often fueled by foreign tourists who come in search of parties loaded with drugs and alcohol, promoting exploitation of minors and women under the false idea of “sexual freedom.”
“Music reflects what we are, what we have been. But it can also be what we dream of being”said the defender, inviting these artists to rethink the type of messages they transmit in their songs. He highlighted that some of the most prominent global artists have managed to modify lyrics that were previously violent or sexist and that, in this way, they have contributed to changing attitudes and promoting a culture of respect and equality.
Marín also referred to the problem of substance use in his lyrics, noting that “extreme drunkenness is not positive if there is not full freedom and awareness”. And he added that reggaeton, like other cultural expressions, could contribute to the transformation of the “culture of illegality” that persists in Colombia, in which drug trafficking and human trafficking continue to be drivers of violence.
In her message, the defender emphasized the harsh reality that women and girls face in Colombia: figures from the Attorney General’s Office indicate that in 2023, 468 femicides were recorded and, so far in 2024, more than 21,000 cases of alleged sexual violence against women have been reported. girls, boys and adolescents. Most of these victims are girls and adolescents, and the situation is alarming in departments such as Bogotá, Antioquia, Valle and Huila.
As a final reflection, Marín invites reggaeton artists to continue representing the country in their songs, but suggests that they take advantage of their influence to celebrate “positive facets of Colombia.” and promote messages of equality and respect. “How about they sing to us about girls’ dreams? Not those who were frustrated, but those we want to support: those of equality, their aspirations, their happiness,” the defender concluded, calling on artists to contribute to cultural and social change through their lyrics.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Iris Marín Ortiz, Ombudsman
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Iris. We’re glad to have you here to discuss an important and timely issue in the music industry. Recently, you addressed a letter to some of Colombia’s top reggaeton artists regarding their latest song. What prompted you to take this step?
Iris Marín Ortiz: Thank you for having me. My concern stems from the profound impact that these artists have on culture and society. Reggaeton is not just music; it’s a powerful medium that shapes perceptions and behaviors. When I noticed certain lyrics in their recent song promoting harmful stereotypes about women, I felt compelled to speak out. It’s not enough to celebrate the genre without addressing the messages it conveys.
Editor: In your letter, you specifically highlighted how the song describes a woman in a way that suggests she can be owned. Can you explain why this portrayal is problematic?
Iris: Absolutely. When lyrics suggest that a woman is “property” of someone else, it feeds into a narrative of control and submission. Such ideas not only perpetuate sexism but also impact societal attitudes towards women. It’s essential that music reflects equality and respect for all individuals. Encouraging listeners to see women as objects rather than autonomous individuals is not just an artistic choice; it’s a social responsibility.
Editor: You mentioned in your letter that while reggaeton is a valuable expression of Latin culture, some content can lead to negative consequences, including sexual exploitation. Can you elaborate on that?
Iris: Yes. The rise of sexual exploitation in cities like Medellín is alarming, and unfortunately, music can play a role in normalizing such behavior. Some tourists come seeking the kind of parties depicted in certain songs, often overlooking the fact that this can lead to the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including minors. We must challenge the glorification of “sexual freedom” that often masks the reality of coercion and abuse.
Editor: You urged these artists to reconsider the messages they send. In your experience, can music change societal attitudes?
Iris: Definitely. Music reflects our realities and aspirations. There are many examples of artists who have evolved their lyrics to promote positive messages. Changing the narrative in music can inspire listeners to adopt healthier attitudes towards relationships and gender equality. It’s about using the platform they have to uplift rather than diminish.
Editor: What kind of response have you received from the artists or the broader community since your letter?
Iris: While I haven’t yet heard back directly from the artists, I believe the conversation is starting to resonate with the public. Many people understand that this issue is not just about music; it’s about the kind of society we want to create. The discussions that are taking place are encouraging, and I hope the artists will take this opportunity to engage with their audience on these critical topics.
Editor: Your perspective emphasizes the idea that artists can lead the way in cultural change. What do you hope will come from this letter and the public discourse surrounding it?
Iris: My hope is that the artists recognize their influence and see it as an opportunity to promote more empowering messages. I want them to reflect on how their art can serve as a vehicle for positive change. Ultimately, my goal is to instigate a broader conversation about the responsibilities of artists within society and encourage a music culture that respects and uplifts everyone.
Editor: Thank you, Iris, for your insightful thoughts and your commitment to addressing these pressing issues. It’s clear that the relationship between music and society is complex, but with constructive dialogue, change is possible.
Iris: Thank you for having me. I believe that together, we can make a difference.