Compañeros de las CASAs:
This month’s newsletter focuses on the increasing repression of social movements all over the world. Repression seems to be on the rise not only in Mexico, but in many countries. Given that, the CASA Collectives see it as part of our role to denounce these abuses, distribute corresponding information, and provide analysis about the deteriorating human rights situation.
In Chiapas, the EZLN recently sent a communiqué that called for a break in the Other Campaign. In this communiqué, the Zapatistas explain that, “Just like in the worst times of the PRI, the PRD government in Chiapas is attacking the poor and marginalized.” Because of that, and also in solidarity with the Popular Revolutionary Army who demand that their kidnapped members be presented, the Zapatistas decided to suspend the Other Campaign-- their biggest ever effort to construct a grassroots national movement.
Despite difficult times, the Zapatistas decided to participate in the Gathering of the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas, which took place in Sonora on October 10th-14th. The gathering included the participation of 570 delegates who represented 67 ethnic groups and nations and 12 countries across the Americas.
In order to provide readers with a detailed understanding of the nature of the repression in Chiapas, we have organized a compilation of all human rights denouncements between January and October, most of which were written by Zapatista authorities. Some of the abuses are not military actions, but rather, attempts to deny Zapatistas access to basic services such as healthcare and potable water. It’s clear that the government strategy to dismantle social movements goes far beyond the use of physical violence.
Complementing and personalizing this compilation, Monica, current volunteer in Chiapas, reflects on her recent experience with Human Rights Brigades in the community of Nueva Rosario in Autonomous Zapatista Territory.
In Oaxaca, statewide elections for mayor were held in early October, which brought the usual accusations of vote-buying and coercion characteristic in the state. CASA volunteers observed elections in Jalapa de Marquez, where the election was divided over the construction of a hydroelectric dam, and violence prior to the election had been reported, including a drive-by shooting at one candidate’s home. The election observation committee produced a short ¡report¡ describing the electoral climate.
Selective repression continues in Oaxaca. Secret state police observe protests and marches, then arrest and beat participants afterwards. Despite all this, impressive events—marches, vigils, barricades, theatre, music, and elaborate altars-- were organized for the anniversary of the murders of Emilio Alonso Fabian, Brad Will, José Alberto Lopez Bernal, Fidel Sanchez Garcia, Esteban Zurita Lopez and other activists assassinated in October of last year.
Chiapas coordinator Leila was also deeply affected when friends and fellow activists were arrested in an attempt to criminalize grassroots social movements in Brasilia. In "3 cases of social movements represion" she connects this repression to other cases around the world, including Myanmar and New Zealand, and hopes not only to disseminate information, but also to extend a call for solidarity.
Saludos solidarios,
Colectivos de Apoyo, Solidaridad y Acción
Chiapas and Oaxaca, México
