CNTE Teachers Protest at Chichén Itzá’s Kukulkán Pyramid, Demand Pension Reforms

Chichén Itzá, Yucatán — Approximately 40 members of Mexico’s CNTE teachers union staged a two-hour protest at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site on March 20, 2026, occupying the area in front of the Kukulkán pyramid to demand dignified retirement pensions.

The demonstration coincided with a private event at the same location that displayed the original FIFA World Cup trophy, sponsored by a soft drink company and the international soccer federation. State authorities and business leaders, including Yucatán Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, participated in the World Cup-related activity just before the protest.

During the two-hour action, protesters chanted slogans including “if there’s no solution, your ball won’t roll,” referencing their intention to intensify mobilization efforts during the upcoming World Cup tournament.

Teachers Criticize Government Priorities

Members of the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) denounced the government’s failure to fulfill President Claudia Sheinbaum’s promise to repeal the 2007 ISSSTE law, warning that this jeopardizes their retirement conditions.

Union leaders accused the president of avoiding dialogue with teachers while negotiating exclusively with business sectors. They also criticized the use of Chichén Itzá for elite events while access for local populations, including Maya communities, remains restricted.

Protest organizers announced that the lack of government attention could lead to expanded strikes or intensified mobilizations in coming weeks. They claim thousands of teachers face difficulties accessing healthcare services.

History of Protests at Archaeological Sites

This marks another instance of CNTE teachers disrupting operations at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Last year, about 300 members of the coordinator, dissatisfied with working conditions, allowed free access to Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam, and Uxmal as a form of protest.

As part of recent mobilizations, the CNTE also conducted a 72-hour work stoppage in Mexico City with blockades on major avenues like Reforma. However, the encampment in the Zócalo main square began dismantling today without having met with the president.

The situation in states like Oaxaca and Guerrero remains concerning due to a wave of violence affecting teachers, families, children, and communities. In Juchitán, located in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, armed individuals reportedly entered a preschool during a spring festival, endangering students and their families.

Key Demands

• Repeal the 2007 ISSSTE law
• Eliminate the educational reform
• Salary increases
• Improved working conditions and security