Text by KARRIE HUANG and ARATI PERIYANNAN
Activism around the world Democracy, feminism, war: five snapshots of social movements MEXICO: Femicide — gender-based killing of women — was the subject of protest of thousands in Mexico City. Protests like this were mirrored throughout Central and South America as women called for the femicides (over 1,000 in Mexico in 2019) to stop. In recent years, feminism has picked up speed in Mexico as protests multiply and support has grown. Mexico’s Supreme Court made a ruling that meant abortion was decriminalized last year. Still, there is much more to change, activists say. NEW ZEALAND: The Black Ferns are the world champions in women’s rugby. But this New Zealand team has few teams to compete against (and fewer opportunities to test their skill) — some of their coaches are even unpaid. In part due to lower investment in women’s games, there is criticism regarding the game quality — where rules might not be followed perfectly or unprofessionalism under pressure. They are fighting for the same recognition as men’s rugby and equal opportunity.
34 April 2022
TUNISIA: Thousands in the capital of Tunisia protested what some have called a coup. After suspending Tunisian parliament and firing the prime minister, president Kais Saied installed members of his own choosing on the nation’s judicial body. Activists say they are fighting autocracy and calling for an independent judiciary. RUSSIA: White-bluewhite flags fly in anti-war protests in Russia. These are Russian flags, but with the red removed to symbolize ending bloodshed and violence. More than 15,000 have been arrested in conjunction with anti-war protests in Russia, amid new censorship laws forbidding referring to the Ukraine invasion as a war. In addition, protests have occurred worldwide, with notable ones occurring in Belarus, Germany, and Estonia. SUDAN: Crowds in Sudan blockaded roads in a protest against a military coup. Issues with exploding inflation and economic hardship propelled many to call for change. Some protesters have been met with tear gas and live rounds — 90 have died — as the military attempts to quell the unrest. Young activists say they are trying to end a circle of authoritarian regimes and coups.
