Warning Issued for traveling to Oaxaca

[wstut]

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has now issued a warning to travelers visiting Oaxaca or intending to do so - as a result of the escalating protests/violence. Here's the text:

"August 8, 2006

Warden Notice Regarding Demonstrations in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

The U.S. Embassy advises its citizens in Oaxaca to avoid demonstrations being held by teachers and students. In recent weeks, the Teacher?s Union Groups have held demonstrations throughout the city of Oaxaca. Local media have reported vandalism, arrests, and injuries as a result of the ongoing confrontations. U.S. citizens in the vicinity are encouraged to avoid large crowds in the Oaxaca area. All persons are encouraged to remain in their homes or hotels, and to avoid downtown Oaxaca and surrounding areas during active demonstrations. Because striking teachers reportedly may attempt to close local airport facilities and the main highway linking Mexico City and Oaxaca, U.S. citizens in the area are advised to monitor local news reports and to contact their airline to confirm flight information.

We wish to remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any protests. Since the timing and routes of marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments."

[Eleni]

We are traveling to Oaxaca in Jan. '07; Our plan is to take photographs of the surrounding area and in particular the zocalo. Given the recent unrest and demonstations, I am concerned about safety and the ability to move about in an unrestricted manner.

Any insight from those in the know would be greatly appreciated.

[RVGRINGO]

Local press here in Mexico says it is getting worse and that tourist travel in Oaxaca has collapsed. According to many, the economy is in a shambles and the demonstrators have declared themselves the government of Oaxaca and are trying to oust the elected government. Since the elected government is PRI and the federal government is PAN, they seem to be getting little support from Mexico City. I wouldn't go now. There have been shootings and fatalities, road blockages, plaza occupations, etc., according to the news.