As Mexico celebrates hosting the FIFA World Cup, a very different kind of energy is simmering beneath the surface. Social movements across the country are using the global spotlight to disrupt the festivities — and they are unrepentant about it.
In the capital, the massive Zócalo square — home to FIFA’s official Fan Fest — is now partially occupied by a sprawling tent encampment. Thousands of teachers from the CNTE union set up camp days before the opening match, protesting inadequate wages and pension reforms. They have also toppled and burned promotional World Cup player statues along the capital’s Paseo de la Reforma and clashed with riot police.
Commentators have warned that the fan experience could be ruined. But the protesters see it differently.
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