Oaxaca is quite well known for its vibrant political scene, or as some would describe it, its vibrant protest scene. While protests continue daily in Oaxaca, primarily the one led by the teachers' union that has not always been the case. In 2006, violent protests or protests that turned violent went on for more than six months.
The protestors in the zocalo are as ubiquitos in Oaxaca as the balloon vendors and campesinos who wander through the square selling handicrafts and baubles. In June, prior to Mexico's mid-term elections the protests heated up and at the time, the U.S. embassy in Mexico City issued a warning for foreigners to precautions and avoid the many large protests, again led by the teachers' unions. Things seemed to have calmed down but you do hear daily of streets being blocked by one protest or another. However, it does all feel quite safe and I have been told to simply be aware of what's going on. So as part of my lengthy walk and explorations after comida, I went to check it all out and get a feeling for what was going on.
Oh and here's a pic of the school. It's a tiny three-room operation with one of the rooms actually being the porch. Much like most things in Oaxaca and many European cities, you go in through a door in a wall with no idea what will be on the other side. The school is on the second floor and you ascend up a winding metal staircase, which is somewhat treacherous given all the rain we've been having. But you do get a good view of town from up there.
No comments:
Post a Comment