Learn about intriguing political and

social issues

• The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is under new scrutiny as the final tariffs were lifted from agricultural trade in January 2008.

• 2010 will be the centennial of the Mexican Revolution of 1910 and the Bicentennial of the war for independence from Spain in 1810.

• The feminist movement in Mexico is on the rise.  Women are seeking greater power in their communities and lives, whether by fighting domestic violence in indigenous communities or becoming involved in the politics of their city.  A controversial new law legalizing abortion during the first trimester was recently passed in Mexico City, leading to intense debates about the Mexican Constitution and laws in other states. See more information about our gender studies programs.

• The Zapatistas (EZLN) and other indigenous organizations continue to fight for the cultural and human rights of indigenous people in the state of Chiapas and throughout Mexico. 

• Social struggles involving teachers unions and other human rights issues are taking place in Oaxaca and affecting the political climate in all of Mexico.

• The movement for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer rights is also on the rise in Mexico. Controversial new laws that enable same-sex civil unions and give LGBT couples, as well as unmarried heterosexual couples, the right to make medical decisions for their partners, and list them as beneficiaries of pensions and inheritances were recently passed in Mexico City. More information on LGBT issues.

• Important environmental movements are taking place in communities throughout Morelos and nation-wide.  These struggles are related to issues such as water, health, GMOs, alternative technology, slow food, land tenancy, and the conservation of natural resources.