Oaxaca.- In light of the visit of the President of Mexico, Felipe Calderon, on the 15th of February to the State of Oaxaca, a large demonstration organized by Section 22 of the Education Workers National Union (SNTE) in the main square of the capital erupted in clashes between protesters and security forces leaving teachers, social activists, journalists and various policemen injured. Marcelino Coache, union leader and former spokesman for the Popular Assembly of the People of Oaxaca (APPO), was also seriously wounded.

<media 7195>Entrevista 23</media>

On January 11 Alba Cruz, the human rights lawyer accompanied by PBI in Oaxaca, received an intimidatory text message to her mobile telephone. The message fits a pattern of threats and intimidation against Alba, who is well-respected for her work in seeking justice for high profile human rights abuses, particularly those which occurred during the social conflict of 2006.

PBI Mexico would like to express its concern for the security of Father Alejandro Solalinde Guerra and members of the Hermanos en el Camino migrant shelter which he coordinates. PBI accompanies Father Solalinde.

Bearing Witness from PBI UK on Vimeo.

Bearing Witness is a short film - produced by Alan Ereira for Peace Brigades International (PBI) UK - about the work of PBI protecting people in different countries around the world who are threatened because of their work speaking out for human rights.