Drag performer Steven Polito from New York describes living through cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta after a drug cartel leader's killing sparked unrest across Mexico. The 49-year-old spends five to six months annually in the popular tourist destination, where he witnessed burned-out cars and property damage in his neighborhood.

Polito recounted seeing burned-out vehicles lining streets normally filled with tourists enjoying the LGBTQ+ friendly community's restaurants and cabaret shows. One neighbor, an Uber driver supporting two children, lost his primary income source when his car was destroyed. Despite the violence, Polito chose to stay, emphasizing that residents lack the luxury of leaving during crises.

The community's resilience impressed Polito, who compared the situation to COVID-19 when Puerto Vallarta residents banded together to survive economic hardship. Local businesses like his favorite restaurant continued serving neighbors despite the chaos. Polito's decision to remain reflects his commitment to supporting the community that welcomed him as a drag performer under his stage name Hedda Lettuce.