Section 22 of the CNTE in Oaxaca, led by Yenny Aracely Pérez Martínez, has voted to end its indefinite strike and move toward a “strategic cessation” of mobilizations. Following a state assembly vote of 12,818 in favor and 3,594 against, the union plans to withdraw its contingents from protests while maintaining a presence in Mexico City as part of a national coordination effort.
What led to the decision to end the strike?
The decision to halt state-level mobilizations follows a series of internal consultations with the union’s base. According to the Section 22 leadership, the vote marks a shift from active protest to a period of internal reorganization and assessment.
The strike, which began on May 25, impacted more than 800,000 students across 13,000 schools in Oaxaca. Over the course of the protest, the union deployed 80 percent of its members to the city of Oaxaca, while 20 percent maintained pressure in Mexico City, including disruptions at the Oaxaca International Airport and the Huitzo toll booth.
What is the significance of the CNTE’s mobilization?
Pérez Martínez characterized the movement as a historic effort to challenge the federal government regarding the 2007 ISSSTE Law. The union alleges that the current administration failed to fulfill campaign promises to repeal the law, arguing that the government prioritizes Afores—private retirement fund managers—over the interests of workers.
The union maintains that the visibility gained through these protests serves as a national and international platform to denounce the current state of the country’s retirement system. By taking their grievances to the streets, the CNTE aimed to force a public conversation on pension reform that they claim has been ignored by federal authorities.
What happens next for the teachers’ union?
The final status of the movement depends on the results of the National Representative Assembly (ANR) of the CNTE, expected to take place tonight. While Oaxaca has voted for a recess, the national body must still aggregate the positions of other key contingents, including those from Chiapas and Guerrero.
A formal activity is scheduled for Saturday in Oaxaca to finalize the state-level recess. Despite the local shift, the union confirmed that a representative presence will remain in Mexico City to continue participating in the national strike coordinated by the CNTE.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teachers participated in the strike?
More than 80,000 members of Section 22 were involved in the indefinite work stoppage that began on May 25.
Why did the union decide to halt the protests?
Following a state assembly vote, 12,818 members chose to pursue a “strategic cessation” of mobilizations, favoring a period of reorganization over continued protest.
Is the national movement ending?
Not necessarily. While Section 22 is pulling back its state-level contingents, the union will maintain a presence in Mexico City, and the final national strategy will be determined by the CNTE’s National Representative Assembly.
Do you believe that labor movements like this effectively influence federal retirement policy?
