Mexico teachers’ strikes

In Mexico, at press time, demonstrations and marches which began on Aug. 19 by striking teachers reportedly had spread to at least 20 states. The cause is an education-reform package that is being voted on by the Congress of Mexico. Teachers’ unions claim it does not address the primary issue of low wages. Also, it establishes mandatory testing of teachers’ skills, among other unpopular items.

On Aug. 23, thousands of striking teachers in Mexico City surrounded government buildings, staged a huge sit-in in the main downtown plaza and repeatedly blocked major roads. Massive traffic jams shut down the roads to the airport for 11 hours, forcing some passengers to walk to the terminals. The unions have called for further strikes.