Something Unusual Happened in Puebla
by Alejandra Rajal from Puebla, México
Two weeks ago, on November 24, something unusual happened in Puebla, Mexico. A group of feminists entered the State Congress and took everyone by surprise when they took part of the facilities indefinitely and demanded that, among other things, the debate for the decriminalization of abortion was reopened.
For the media in the Northern Globe, this may not seem relevant or newsworthy enough, considering these types of stories are mostly covered in Mexico City where the intensity of the feminist movement has grown. But if I have learned something these months, it is that social fights, no matter how small, have the ability to move tides.
And the one being led by compas of “Coatlicue Siempre Viva” and the feminist collectives in Puebla (the place where I was born), is not the exception.
I have always said that growing up here was like living in a bubble. Here, "nothing happens" and what happens outside “doesn't affect us”. Puebla is one of the most conservative cities in the country in every way. Here, the customs and practices are really important for most, so much, that even when we protest we do it in a fairly orderly way. That is if we do it at all, because the average Poblano doesn't protest in the streets. When the takeover of the State Congress happened, I felt like the bubble burst somehow.
Talking about abortion, and having women demanding those conversations, shook and made several people uncomfortable.
Personally, I have always known what my convictions are on the subject: I support the right of a woman to choose and have access to a legal, safe, and free abortion. However, maybe a few years ago I would have thought twice before saying it so openly in this city. That's why this toma del Congreso has filled me with hope, because it makes me feel like I am not alone in wanting to fight for a better world for women.
I also feel it gave more women here the courage to fight for their freedom. To speak up. To support. To be there. And this, in the end, holds the utmost importance when you grow up in a place where sharing your personal views and experiences outside the status quo could mean becoming an outcast of your society.
Life keeps going but at this very moment, I am grateful for being able to witness a turning point in the history of my city. And I desire with all my heart that in the future, people will remember the story of a small group of brave women who decided to fight the good fight.
