Background on the Coordinadora Nacional de los Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE)
The Coordinadora Nacional de los Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) is a powerful teachers’ union in Mexico, known for its strong advocacy for educational reform and better working conditions. Comprising thousands of teachers from across the country, CNTE has been a significant force in Mexican education politics for decades.
Protests and Demands
On May 14, CNTE members occupied the Zócalo in Mexico City, demanding the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE reform and a salary increase of 100%. They protested against the government’s announcement of a mere 9% raise by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Throughout their stay in the Zócalo, CNTE members staged various demonstrations and acts of protest. These included roadblocks, disruptions at federal events, and instances of vandalism. One notable incident involved the Coordinadora Estatal de Trabajadores de la Educación de Guerrero (CETEG), who set fire to the headquarters of the Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (SNTE) after breaking in with wooden clubs.
Reactions and Impact
The SNTE, affected by the vandalism, condemned the violent acts and announced that they would file a complaint with authorities to determine responsibility and apply legal sanctions.
This incident caused a rift within the teaching community, as other CNTE groups distanced themselves from the violent actions. The protests and subsequent infighting have strained relationships among educators and impacted the overall educational landscape.
Resumption of Classes
As CNTE members begin to vacate the Zócalo, they have announced that regular classes will resume in Oaxaca starting Monday, June 9. This development signals a potential shift towards normalcy in the region’s educational sector following the prolonged demonstrations.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is the CNTE? The Coordinadora Nacional de los Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) is a prominent teachers’ union in Mexico, advocating for educational reform and improved working conditions.
- What were their demands? CNTE demanded the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE reform and a salary increase of 100%, rejecting the government’s proposed 9% raise.
- What incidents occurred during the protests? There were roadblocks, disruptions at federal events, and acts of vandalism. Notably, the CETEG set fire to the SNTE headquarters after breaking in with wooden clubs.
- How did the SNTE respond to the vandalism? The SNTE condemned the violent acts and announced they would file a complaint with authorities to determine responsibility and apply legal sanctions.
- When will classes resume in Oaxaca? Classes are set to resume in Oaxaca starting Monday, June 9, following the CNTE’s decision to vacate the Zócalo in Mexico City.
