Zapatismo

Zapatismo is a political ideology and social movement rooted in the Mexican state of Chiapas. It is named after Emiliano Zapata, a leading figure in the Mexican Revolution of 1910, and it seeks to empower indigenous communities and fight against neoliberal policies and global capitalism.

The modern Zapatista movement emerged in 1994 with the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN), a largely indigenous armed group, launching an uprising on January 1, the day the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) went into effect. The EZLN viewed NAFTA as a death sentence for Mexico's indigenous communities, predicting it would further marginalize them and destroy their traditional ways of life.

The core tenets of Zapatismo include:

• Autonomy: The pursuit of self-governance and control over local resources and decision-making within indigenous communities. This includes establishing autonomous schools, healthcare systems, and economic structures.
• Democracy: A commitment to participatory and direct democracy, emphasizing decision-making from the bottom up.
• Justice: The pursuit of social and economic justice for marginalized populations, particularly indigenous peoples.
• Liberty: Freedom from oppression, exploitation, and discrimination.
• Land and Resources: The recognition of indigenous land rights and the importance of controlling natural resources for the benefit of local communities.
• Anti-Neoliberalism: Opposition to neoliberal economic policies that are seen as exacerbating inequality and undermining indigenous communities.

While the EZLN initially employed armed struggle, their focus shifted towards building autonomous communities and engaging in non-violent resistance. They established "caracoles" (snail shells) as centers for autonomous governance and facilitated dialogues with civil society organizations and activists around the world.

Zapatismo has had a significant impact beyond Mexico, inspiring social movements and activists globally. It has become a symbol of resistance against globalization, neoliberalism, and the marginalization of indigenous peoples. The movement continues to advocate for indigenous rights, social justice, and a more equitable world.