On February 12, 2023, the streets of Mexico City (CDMX) are expected to be busy with demonstrators as at least four large protests will take place throughout the day, impacting various traffic routes across the city.
The first protest is set to kick off at 9:30 AM at the Federal Labor Court located on Carretera Picacho Ajusco No. 200, Tlalpan. Organized by Libres y Combativas, this demonstration is entitled "¡Los Derechos No Se Mendigan, Se Exigen!" (Rights are not begged for, they are demanded). Activists are rallying to denounce workplace harassment, violence, labor discrimination, and unjust firings allegedly perpetrated by the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE). They also plan to address alleged malpractice by judges within the Federal Labor Courts for individual matters.
At 10:00 AM, another protest will occur at the Federal Judiciary Council (CJF) at Av. Insurgentes Sur No. 2417, Álvaro Obregón. Participants are protesting against reductions to the contributions made by the worker's Individualized Separation Insurance Fund, claiming it violates the transitional article of the Judicial Reform and impacts the earnings of hundreds of federal defenders and legal advisors. An expected 300 people from the Federal Public Defender's Institute will join forces to advocate for their rights.
Later, at 10:30 AM, residents from Tláhuac and Venustiano Carranza will gather to protest at the Casa de Cultura “Rosario Castellanos Figueroa” and Pilares “20 de Noviembre,” respectively. The focus here is on demanding the cancellation of concessions granted to private companies, citing concerns over water inequality within the city. This protest is particularly notable as it coincides with the “Foro de Planeación Integral para el Derecho Humano al Agua” organized by the System of Waters of Mexico City (SACMEX). Activists predict around 50 attendees will mobilize for this cause.
Lastly, throughout the day, protests will also occur at the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples (INPI) located at Av. Revolución No. 1279, with individuals demanding compliance with community project initiatives for the Triqui area of San Juan Copala, Oaxaca. The gathering is anticipated to include about 60 participants from various indigenous collectives.
The city authorities, anticipating the impact of these demonstrations, have issued warnings about possible traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours of 7:00 to 9:00 AM and from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. The streets around these events may experience significant delays, urging residents to plan alternative routes and methods of transportation.
According to reports, the most affected regions include Gustavo A. Madero, where the collective "Hasta encontrarles" demands transport as they continue their search for three missing young men. This event is also projected to add to the traffic overload status throughout the morning.
City residents are advised to stay updated through reliable channels for real-time traffic conditions, as the situation can change rapidly with the flow of each protest. Authorities recommend checking the Center for Traffic Guidance (Centro de Orientación Vial) for alternative routes and avoiding main arteries likely to be blocked.
The day’s protests represent more than just traffic frustrations; they signify the rising tensions over labor rights and social justice issues across the capital. Demonstrators are not only seeking practical solutions to immediate challenges but are also pressing for broader systemic changes, highlighting concerns over labor standards, equality, and basic human rights.
With CLI’s weather predictions anticipating warm conditions and strong winds, demonstrators will brave the elements to make their voices heard, reminding all of the importance of active civic engagement.
Residents will be watching closely to see if these public demonstrations lead to substantive dialogue and change from their local institutions.