Background on the CNTE and its Relevance
The Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) is a powerful teachers’ union in Mexico, known for its strong advocacy for educational reform and labor rights. Comprised mainly of dissident teachers from the National Educational Workers’ Union (SNTE), the CNTE has been a significant force in Mexican education politics since its formation in 2006. Their recent actions, such as the ongoing 48-hour national strike, highlight their influence and determination to bring attention to their demands.
Details of the 48-Hour Strike
On Friday, November 14th, the CNTE continued its 48-hour national strike, which includes roadblocks at various carreteros access points to Mexico City and other states. The strike aims to pressure the federal government to address their labor and educational demands, including the derogation of reforms and increased educational budget.
Protest Actions and Impact
- Early Morning Mobilization: At around 6:00 AM, buses transported teachers from their protest site at the Congress of the Union to strategic locations along major highways connecting to Mexico City.
- Roadblock Liberation: Teachers liberated traffic by releasing “plumas” (a term for blocking vehicles) and allowing free passage for automobiles for several hours. This tactic serves as a form of protest and political pressure.
- Mexico-Cuernavaca Autopista: Contingents gathered early but had not yet interfered with traffic as of the report.
- Plantón in San Lázaro: While some teachers mobilize to roadblocks, others remain at a protest outside the Chamber of Deputies, causing the complete closure of the Congress of the Union.
Government Response and Alternative Routes
Ricardo Monreal, president of the Junta de Coordinación Política, confirmed that legislative activities are deliberately suspended to avoid confrontations. He stated there is no plan to convene in an alternative location and expressed hope that protests would conclude by Friday.
For automobile drivers in the area, alternative routes recommended are Viaducto and Eduardo Molina.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is the CNTE? The Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) is a teachers’ union in Mexico that advocates for educational reform and labor rights.
- What are their demands? The CNTE is pushing for the derogation of certain reforms and increased educational budget.
- What actions are they taking? They are conducting a 48-hour national strike, including roadblocks at key access points to Mexico City and other states.
- How is the government responding? The federal government is being pressured to address the CNTE’s demands, while legislative activities are suspended to avoid confrontations.
- What alternative routes are recommended? For drivers in the affected area, alternative routes suggested are Viaducto and Eduardo Molina.
