Twelve hours passed (11 a.m.) since the containment carried out by the riot police under Mexico City Head of Government Clara Brugada, who prevented the arrival of the “Internationalist Faena for the End of Criminalization,” convened by the Mazatec Women for Freedom. This day of protest and outreach had been called in front of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN). This is the first Internationalist Faena held in Mexico City to demand justice in response to the 200 fabricated arrest warrants issued earlier this year against more than 56 members of Eloxochitlán de Flores Magón, Oaxaca. It was not until 9 a.m. that Pino Suárez Street was cleared by the riot police, thanks to the pressure exerted by organized communities in Mexico City, activists, and independent media who mobilized in response to the repression.

The riot police units—now called Special Task Groupings—that participated in this repressive operation were: Centauros, Marcopolos, Faunos, and Ateneas. Throughout the containment, they continued issuing threats and harassment against activists and journalists, while also hiding the identifying name tags they are required to wear on their vests to avoid being reported for their repeated violations of operational protocol.

The program of the Internationalist Faena continues in front of the SCJN entrance. The public is invited to attend today’s activities starting at 4:00 p.m., and tomorrow, December 4, starting at 12:00 p.m.; forums, graphic presentations, documentary screenings, musical performances, and more will take place. The full program can be found on the social media pages of Mazatec Women for Freedom and the Eloxochitlán de Flores Magón political prisoners.