Sheinbaum Addresses Arriaga’s Departure, Textbook Controversy
President Claudia Sheinbaum has addressed the recent departure of Marx Arriaga from his position as Director General of Educational Materials at the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP). The move followed disagreements over the content of the recent free textbooks, specifically regarding the inclusion of women in historical narratives.
Disagreement Over Textbook Content
According to Sheinbaum, Arriaga expressed disagreement with the proposed modifications to incorporate more women into the textbooks. She emphasized that the textbooks are not the property of any single individual, asserting the importance of reflecting a more inclusive history.
Offers of Alternative Roles
Sheinbaum stated that Arriaga was offered alternative positions within the government, including a potential consulship, as a means of continuing his service without impacting the textbook revisions. She acknowledged Arriaga’s contributions, describing him as a “very good public servant.”
New Director Appointed: Nadia López García
Nadia López García, a poet, teacher, and activist for educational rights, has been appointed as the new Director General of Educational Materials. She is described as coming from an indigenous family in Oaxaca and is fluent in both Mixtec and Spanish.
Commitment to the New Mexican School Model
Sheinbaum reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the New Mexican School model and the free textbooks, stating that they will not be changed. This model, initiated in 2018, represents a key component of the current administration’s transformation efforts.
Arriaga’s Response and Concerns
Marx Arriaga has alleged that his removal was not legal and has accused Noemí Juárez Pérez, Undersecretary of Basic Education, of seeking to alter all the textbooks. He reportedly refused to leave his office and criticized an offer of an ambassadorship as an attempt to undermine the Fourth Transformation.
FAQ
- What caused Marx Arriaga’s departure? Disagreements over the inclusion of women in the new free textbooks.
- Who is the new Director General of Educational Materials? Nadia López García, a poet and educator.
- Will the new textbooks be changed? No, the government has affirmed its commitment to the current textbooks and the New Mexican School model.
- Were alternative positions offered to Arriaga? Yes, including a potential consulship.
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