Street vendors profit from CNTE protest blockade in Mexico City's Historic Center

Street vendors have seized an opportunity presented by a protest blockade in Mexico City's Historic Center, setting up shop and selling their wares amidst the demonstration. The blockade, organized by the National Union of Education Workers (CNTE), has transformed the area into a labyrinth for pedestrians navigating around tents, banners, and merchandise.

During a tour of the area, it was observed that the CNTE's blockade spans several streets, including Venustiano Carranza and Belisario Domingo, and extends from Eje Central to Simón Bolívar. This area is further restricted by metal barriers limiting access to the Zócalo, the city's main square.

Informal commerce has flourished along the blocked routes, with vendors selling everything from clothing and soccer jerseys to wallets, socks, belts, flavored drinks, and even freshly made tlayudas. The sellers employ various methods, from setting up tables and chairs to displaying goods on plastic sheets on the sidewalks, or hawking their products while walking.

One vendor was heard shouting, "Don't get wet, teacher, here are the raincoats!" while holding up packages. Some vendors have even utilized the metal fences surrounding the Zócalo and the closed storefronts to display their merchandise, taking advantage of the prolonged eleven-day blockade.

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Don't get wet, teacher, here are the raincoats!