The territory on the border between Mexico and Guatemala has been used for decades by groups that traffic illegal merchandise and smuggle people; but the difference with the current situation, he says, is the acts of violence against the population that does not agree (with these activities); the use of arms, the control of roads and means of communication.
Along with a few outsiders and many indigenous Zapatistas, I had the opportunity and the honor to attend the burial and contemplate the human issues that always arise when one is confronted with the finality and continuality of death. Throughout that sunny morning and brilliant afternoon, a tumult of emotions and thoughts and impressions flashed across my consciousness and are still percolating beneath the surface. Although I am still sorting out my feeling, I need to share some impressions from that profound experience.
Older folks, both men and women, accompany the hundreds of youth throughout the celebration. These Zapatista authorities from local municipalities work day and night throughout the celebration. The men cook wonderful food which fuels the sports and cultural work of the students. The women and men serving as local Zapatista government authorities seek advice and direction from the Good Government Board about issues facing their communities.
Autonomy is a word readers and researchers on the Schools for Chiapas website will come across often. It is a key concept of Zapatismo: One will come across autonomous zones, autonomous municipalities, autonomous communities, autonomous education, autonomous health…even an autonomous ambulance! The Zapatista project is defined by the demand for autonomy and it is important to have a clear understanding of the term.
Check out the first installment of our Teach Chiapas video series! “Women in the Zapatista Movement” is a short video for educators and students that offers a clear introduction to women’s participation in the Zapatista movement in Chiapas, Mexico.
