This article is from the source 'guardian' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://www.theguardian.com/cities/live/2015/nov/09/guardian-mexico-city-week-live

The article has changed 29 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 15 Version 16
Guardian Mexico City week – live Guardian Mexico City week – live
(35 minutes later)
10.25pm GMT22:25
A manifesto for the city
Today’s discussion at the Frida Kahlo Museum culminated in our all-female panel (of all ages and backgrounds) drawing up a set of recommendations for the city’s authorities. Here are three key points from their “manifesto for the city”:
(1) Insecurity and violence against women continues to be the number one priority for women living in the city. This panel seeks urgent action to tackle society’s tolerance of the harassment of women – in public and private spaces, including among those working within an official capacity – and to challenge women’s representation as lesser, sexual objects in the mainstream media.
(2) The absence of gender equality within the school curriculum is a huge concern. There is an urgent need for programmes (within both public and private schools) that teach all children about equality, rights, sexual choice, sexual health, diversity and respect. It must be a priority that women defending the rights of other women can carry out their work safely and securely. Any threats or violence against female human rights defenders – for example, the massacre in Navarte – must be a priority for the city’s authorities. It must be dealt with transparently within the criminal justice system and not be played out in the media.
(3) The vast majority of women in the city rely on public transport, where many feel vulnerable and unsafe. Women-only carriages will only be effective if they are properly controlled – and even then, they are only part of a solution. There must be long-term, effective public campaigns to eradicate sexual harassment, which must include messages about equality and respect from school-age onwards.
A more detailed report on the discussion, and a full set of the recommendations arrived at, will be published later this week. MH
9.52pm GMT21:529.52pm GMT21:52
The Unexpected Virtue of Mexico City student filmsThe Unexpected Virtue of Mexico City student films
It’s a heady time for Mexican film-makers abroad. The country has bred the past two Academy Award winners for best director: Alfonso Cuarón for Gravity and Alejandro González Iñárritu for Birdman (Or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance). And Emmanuel “Chivo” Lubezki rode both those films to two consecutive Oscars for best cinematographer.It’s a heady time for Mexican film-makers abroad. The country has bred the past two Academy Award winners for best director: Alfonso Cuarón for Gravity and Alejandro González Iñárritu for Birdman (Or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance). And Emmanuel “Chivo” Lubezki rode both those films to two consecutive Oscars for best cinematographer.
Cuarón and Lubezki have another thing in common: they both went to the prestigious CUEC film school of Mexico City.Cuarón and Lubezki have another thing in common: they both went to the prestigious CUEC film school of Mexico City.
So we knew that challenging CUEC’s first-year class to make a series of three-minute films about Mexico City would generate something interesting.So we knew that challenging CUEC’s first-year class to make a series of three-minute films about Mexico City would generate something interesting.
On Friday, they screened the results for us. Here’s one.On Friday, they screened the results for us. Here’s one.
I say again: first-year students. It’s enough to make you hopeful that the days of judging Mexican directors by their Oscar haul are numbered. Though the students also had an axe to grind about how difficult it is to distribute independent Mexican films, even in Mexico. “So far from God, so close to the United States.”I say again: first-year students. It’s enough to make you hopeful that the days of judging Mexican directors by their Oscar haul are numbered. Though the students also had an axe to grind about how difficult it is to distribute independent Mexican films, even in Mexico. “So far from God, so close to the United States.”
More to come.More to come.
CMCM
Updated at 10.13pm GMTUpdated at 10.13pm GMT
9.22pm GMT21:229.22pm GMT21:22
Martin has spent some time with the migrants at La Merced market.Martin has spent some time with the migrants at La Merced market.
Mexico City’s been a magnet for migrants since the Revolution, and people are still coming from the countryside, to flee violence or find work.Mexico City’s been a magnet for migrants since the Revolution, and people are still coming from the countryside, to flee violence or find work.
For no particular reason, these butchers at La Merced market broke into a chorus of "¡Viva México!" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/fQLy24m7Z3For no particular reason, these butchers at La Merced market broke into a chorus of "¡Viva México!" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/fQLy24m7Z3
...which quickly became a chant of "¡ Que viva Oaxaca!" in honour of their home town #GuardianMexico...which quickly became a chant of "¡ Que viva Oaxaca!" in honour of their home town #GuardianMexico
“In the countryside there are no jobs, so we had to move,” said Ricardo, who was selling calla lillies. “I don’t like Mexico City, but I had no choice.”“In the countryside there are no jobs, so we had to move,” said Ricardo, who was selling calla lillies. “I don’t like Mexico City, but I had no choice.”
Valeria selling jelly in La Merced market: "Mexico City is pretty but I worry about insecurity here" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/Gjc5a04e4JValeria selling jelly in La Merced market: "Mexico City is pretty but I worry about insecurity here" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/Gjc5a04e4J
Another woman, Elena, said she and her family had moved to the DF from Guerrero when their father was killed 40 years ago.Another woman, Elena, said she and her family had moved to the DF from Guerrero when their father was killed 40 years ago.
Luís + tripe: "The best thing about Mexico City? You can find anything. The worst? Too many people" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/YZ6TwjIMcBLuís + tripe: "The best thing about Mexico City? You can find anything. The worst? Too many people" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/YZ6TwjIMcB
But what’s striking is how migrants hold on to their identity: even though Elena has never been back to her home state, she still called herself a Guerrerense.But what’s striking is how migrants hold on to their identity: even though Elena has never been back to her home state, she still called herself a Guerrerense.
Rosa, who was selling potatoes and tomatoes in a corner of the Merced market, is a member of the Mazahua indigenous group. She moved to the city from Michoacán when she was five years old; she’s 55 now, but doesn’t consider herself a chilango and still speaks Mazahua at home. “You don’t give up who you are just because you move.”Rosa, who was selling potatoes and tomatoes in a corner of the Merced market, is a member of the Mazahua indigenous group. She moved to the city from Michoacán when she was five years old; she’s 55 now, but doesn’t consider herself a chilango and still speaks Mazahua at home. “You don’t give up who you are just because you move.”
Gabby and Anna-Maria selling nopal cactus in La Merced market. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/Yi5jCtr1htGabby and Anna-Maria selling nopal cactus in La Merced market. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/Yi5jCtr1ht
Gabby (above) and Alejandro moved from Oaxaca six years ago in search of work, but now that their daughter, Anna Maria (pictured) is starting to grow, they’re thinking of heading back. “When we were younger there was no work in Oaxaca, but things are starting to change now, so we’d like to go back home. The food is much better there...”Gabby (above) and Alejandro moved from Oaxaca six years ago in search of work, but now that their daughter, Anna Maria (pictured) is starting to grow, they’re thinking of heading back. “When we were younger there was no work in Oaxaca, but things are starting to change now, so we’d like to go back home. The food is much better there...”
Updated at 9.23pm GMTUpdated at 9.23pm GMT
9.00pm GMT21:009.00pm GMT21:00
As mentioned, Guardian Cities was in a need of a temporary home to bring you this live week of content, and we are very grateful to Mexico City’s leading free newspaper, máspormás, for welcoming us into their (literally) brand new office building today.As mentioned, Guardian Cities was in a need of a temporary home to bring you this live week of content, and we are very grateful to Mexico City’s leading free newspaper, máspormás, for welcoming us into their (literally) brand new office building today.
While here we’ve come across a really interesting new project of theirs called Pictoline. It’s a constant stream of smart data visualisations tackling a wide range of news and lifestyle stories from around the world. Here’s a recent one we like (also good for practising your Spanish) …While here we’ve come across a really interesting new project of theirs called Pictoline. It’s a constant stream of smart data visualisations tackling a wide range of news and lifestyle stories from around the world. Here’s a recent one we like (also good for practising your Spanish) …
Estas son las palabras (y conceptos) más populares del 2015 pic.twitter.com/iN4zfYugaCEstas son las palabras (y conceptos) más populares del 2015 pic.twitter.com/iN4zfYugaC
… and a brief video explaining more about Pictoline:… and a brief video explaining more about Pictoline:
MHMH
8.53pm GMT20:538.53pm GMT20:53
Meanwhile, back at Rosetta in Colonia, we’ve been tasting some really exquisite, locally sourced examples of Mexican cooking, courtesy of Elena Reygadas and her talented team. Here are some photos to make your collective mouths water ...Meanwhile, back at Rosetta in Colonia, we’ve been tasting some really exquisite, locally sourced examples of Mexican cooking, courtesy of Elena Reygadas and her talented team. Here are some photos to make your collective mouths water ...
This indescribably delicious dish is a persimmon salad, mixed with requesón cheese (a type of ricotta), all manner of herbs (sorrel, shiso, mint, tarragon), plus pistachios for added crunch. Personally, I don’t ever remember trying a persimmon before, and now I have, I don’t think I’m ever going to look at a tomato the same way again.This indescribably delicious dish is a persimmon salad, mixed with requesón cheese (a type of ricotta), all manner of herbs (sorrel, shiso, mint, tarragon), plus pistachios for added crunch. Personally, I don’t ever remember trying a persimmon before, and now I have, I don’t think I’m ever going to look at a tomato the same way again.
And this is an octopus rushed here fresh from Campeche, a state on the Yucatán Peninsula, then accompanied by chickpeas, coriander and purslane.And this is an octopus rushed here fresh from Campeche, a state on the Yucatán Peninsula, then accompanied by chickpeas, coriander and purslane.
There is desert too, but I honestly think it would be cruel to show you a photo of it – so I’ll just tell you the ingredients and let you imagine for yourself:There is desert too, but I honestly think it would be cruel to show you a photo of it – so I’ll just tell you the ingredients and let you imagine for yourself:
Red mole sauce with chocolate in a peanut ice cream, dressed with caramelised peanuts with salt, toasted corn and – who’d have thought it? – lemon thyme. Heaven. MHRed mole sauce with chocolate in a peanut ice cream, dressed with caramelised peanuts with salt, toasted corn and – who’d have thought it? – lemon thyme. Heaven. MH
8.24pm GMT20:248.24pm GMT20:24
It’s not always easy switching between different locations and subjects across Mexico City today. We want to capture all the excitement of being in the city, but we’re also feeling pretty serious about some of the tough conversations that have been had by our guests at the Frida Kahlo Museum today.It’s not always easy switching between different locations and subjects across Mexico City today. We want to capture all the excitement of being in the city, but we’re also feeling pretty serious about some of the tough conversations that have been had by our guests at the Frida Kahlo Museum today.
Some of Mexico City's most influential women @museofridakahlo discussing challenges for women in DF #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/xWZNJXLqMTSome of Mexico City's most influential women @museofridakahlo discussing challenges for women in DF #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/xWZNJXLqMT
We will certainly follow up on some of the important points that have been made – for example, we’ll talk at length to Marcelina Bautista and other (anonymous) domestic workers this week about their often gruelling experiences of life in Mexico City. Marcelina herself moved here aged 14 to work as a live-in housekeeper, and worked as a domestic for 22 years – often in very difficult circumstances.We will certainly follow up on some of the important points that have been made – for example, we’ll talk at length to Marcelina Bautista and other (anonymous) domestic workers this week about their often gruelling experiences of life in Mexico City. Marcelina herself moved here aged 14 to work as a live-in housekeeper, and worked as a domestic for 22 years – often in very difficult circumstances.
Then in 2000, she set up the Centre for Support and Training of Domestic Workers (Caceh) – an employment rights association which recently converted into a fully-fledged union, becoming the first national union in Mexico to be run by domestic workers themselves. It’s been an honour to have her and the rest of this eminent group of Mexico City women sharing their experiences with us today. MHThen in 2000, she set up the Centre for Support and Training of Domestic Workers (Caceh) – an employment rights association which recently converted into a fully-fledged union, becoming the first national union in Mexico to be run by domestic workers themselves. It’s been an honour to have her and the rest of this eminent group of Mexico City women sharing their experiences with us today. MH
7.34pm GMT19:347.34pm GMT19:34
Back at the Casa Azul, the discussion on women and Mexico City is exploring inequality, violence and security …Back at the Casa Azul, the discussion on women and Mexico City is exploring inequality, violence and security …
“The city is a microcosm of the best and the worst of Mexico. Security and inequality are huge challenges for women here” – @DeniseDresserG“The city is a microcosm of the best and the worst of Mexico. Security and inequality are huge challenges for women here” – @DeniseDresserG
"Last year 178 women were assassinated in Mexico City. Just 31 cases were investigated as feminicide": Luz Estrada of @OCNF #GuardianMexico"Last year 178 women were assassinated in Mexico City. Just 31 cases were investigated as feminicide": Luz Estrada of @OCNF #GuardianMexico
Luz Estrada on feminicide in Mexico: "we still don’t have clarity on what’s making women disappear. They are invisible" #GuardianMexicoLuz Estrada on feminicide in Mexico: "we still don’t have clarity on what’s making women disappear. They are invisible" #GuardianMexico
Marcelina Bautista (from Un Trabajo Digno) talked about the situation of domestic workers in the city and the discrimination and violence they suffer from their employers, including the negation of their identity (forcing them to change their names) and physical abuse. The law doesn’t stipulate a minimum salary for domestic workers. 2.3 million people work as domestic workers in Mexico – in Mexico City there are 250,000, the majority of them women.Marcelina Bautista (from Un Trabajo Digno) talked about the situation of domestic workers in the city and the discrimination and violence they suffer from their employers, including the negation of their identity (forcing them to change their names) and physical abuse. The law doesn’t stipulate a minimum salary for domestic workers. 2.3 million people work as domestic workers in Mexico – in Mexico City there are 250,000, the majority of them women.
7.26pm GMT19:267.26pm GMT19:26
Martin’s latest market visit is the freakiest yet.Martin’s latest market visit is the freakiest yet.
Mercado de Sonora, for all your spiritual-magical-syncretic needs #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/LOegWdl0vLMercado de Sonora, for all your spiritual-magical-syncretic needs #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/LOegWdl0vL
The Sonora Market specialises in medicinal plants and herbs ... and the paraphernalia of the paranormal. Stalls here sell everything from statues of Catholic saints to beads for Cuban Santería, from Copal incense to “Break-up-couples shampoo” and “Pants-off lotion”.The Sonora Market specialises in medicinal plants and herbs ... and the paraphernalia of the paranormal. Stalls here sell everything from statues of Catholic saints to beads for Cuban Santería, from Copal incense to “Break-up-couples shampoo” and “Pants-off lotion”.
Javier sells Santería artefacts: "I'm not a Santero, but everyone's got to believe in something" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/yZFZN4chSwJavier sells Santería artefacts: "I'm not a Santero, but everyone's got to believe in something" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/yZFZN4chSw
Doña Aurora: "Mexico City is getting better. When I started here the roof was made of cardboard" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/GDNVE5UR9WDoña Aurora: "Mexico City is getting better. When I started here the roof was made of cardboard" #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/GDNVE5UR9W
There are plenty of folks saints are on display, too – figures of power in popular religion, but not recognised (and sometimes actively repressed) by the Catholic church.There are plenty of folks saints are on display, too – figures of power in popular religion, but not recognised (and sometimes actively repressed) by the Catholic church.
Some are from as far away as Venezula, such as Jose Gregorio and the Three Powers of the María Lionza faith. But several are specifically Mexican: Jesus Malverde, known as the “angel of the poor” or the “narcosaint”, and Santa Muerte, or Holy Death.Some are from as far away as Venezula, such as Jose Gregorio and the Three Powers of the María Lionza faith. But several are specifically Mexican: Jesus Malverde, known as the “angel of the poor” or the “narcosaint”, and Santa Muerte, or Holy Death.
Doña Flor: "all the saints are powerful, but Santa Muerte is the strongest. Don't make her angry." #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/tyzv8rFYoIDoña Flor: "all the saints are powerful, but Santa Muerte is the strongest. Don't make her angry." #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/tyzv8rFYoI
Also known as the Skinny Lady or the Bony Lady, Santa Muerte emerged some time in the 20th century, but in the past 15 years has become enormously popular among Mexico’s poor and downtrodden. She is considered to be particularly powerful, but also vengeful. “Sometimes people promise to make an offering and she helps them,” says Doña Flor. “But if they don’t keep their word, then everything they asked for will turn out wrong.”Also known as the Skinny Lady or the Bony Lady, Santa Muerte emerged some time in the 20th century, but in the past 15 years has become enormously popular among Mexico’s poor and downtrodden. She is considered to be particularly powerful, but also vengeful. “Sometimes people promise to make an offering and she helps them,” says Doña Flor. “But if they don’t keep their word, then everything they asked for will turn out wrong.”
See more images of Sante Muerte here.See more images of Sante Muerte here.
Related: Inside Santa Muerte, Mexico's cult of death - in picturesRelated: Inside Santa Muerte, Mexico's cult of death - in pictures
7.14pm GMT19:147.14pm GMT19:14
Pigwatch: Hour 4Pigwatch: Hour 4
Reports are surfacing from people who claim they knew the pig before he was cool.Reports are surfacing from people who claim they knew the pig before he was cool.
I once met the pig (before he got famous) at a party in la Roma. He's called Harrison and his best mate's a husky. Nice guy. #GuardianMexicoI once met the pig (before he got famous) at a party in la Roma. He's called Harrison and his best mate's a husky. Nice guy. #GuardianMexico
Thanks Peter ... but can we really trust this information? Given that the crack investigative team at Máspormás – whose headquarters Guardian Cities are working from this week – reports that the pig’s name is, in fact, El Chata?Thanks Peter ... but can we really trust this information? Given that the crack investigative team at Máspormás – whose headquarters Guardian Cities are working from this week – reports that the pig’s name is, in fact, El Chata?
@guardiancities Everything is explained here: https://t.co/VRRosnbejz She's a Vietnamese pig and her name is 'Chata'. #GuardianMexico@guardiancities Everything is explained here: https://t.co/VRRosnbejz She's a Vietnamese pig and her name is 'Chata'. #GuardianMexico
Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with the pig at 5pm CST. All will be revealed.Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with the pig at 5pm CST. All will be revealed.
CMCM
6.37pm GMT18:376.37pm GMT18:37
Here’s an update on our event in the garden of the Casa Azul, the former home of artist Frida Kahlo, discussing how life in Mexico City is changing for women.Here’s an update on our event in the garden of the Casa Azul, the former home of artist Frida Kahlo, discussing how life in Mexico City is changing for women.
We're at @museofridakahlo for our discussion on the changing experience of women in Mexico City #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/sEk3vQ6PQaWe're at @museofridakahlo for our discussion on the changing experience of women in Mexico City #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/sEk3vQ6PQa
Aquí con mujeres maravillosas en el evento #GuardianMexico hablando del gozo y del reto que es vivir en el DF. pic.twitter.com/LpQBbEH0JrAquí con mujeres maravillosas en el evento #GuardianMexico hablando del gozo y del reto que es vivir en el DF. pic.twitter.com/LpQBbEH0Jr
The Casa Azul is now a museum and pilgrimage site for many who consider the artist an early Mexican feminist. Here’s a gallery of her life in the house, featuring this photograph of the artist aged four …The Casa Azul is now a museum and pilgrimage site for many who consider the artist an early Mexican feminist. Here’s a gallery of her life in the house, featuring this photograph of the artist aged four …
6.20pm GMT18:206.20pm GMT18:20
As our live discussion at the Frida Kahlo museum kicks into gear (follow on #guardianmexico), Megan Carpentier reports from a gathering of (mostly female) leaders in the slum of Tlalpizatli:As our live discussion at the Frida Kahlo museum kicks into gear (follow on #guardianmexico), Megan Carpentier reports from a gathering of (mostly female) leaders in the slum of Tlalpizatli:
To get to Tlalpizatli community centre, in the district of Xochimilco (a UN world heritage site), you have to drive up a hillside, pull off the paved road, descend a dirt road through fields of greenhouses, and park in front of a sign warning that you’re now in a protected area. Then you have to tromp down a dirt path through more fields filled with flowers (currently marigolds and poinsettias) and lettuces, until you feel as if you might be lost ... at which point you’ll find three fenced-in buildings, with a yard sheltered by a yellow tarp.To get to Tlalpizatli community centre, in the district of Xochimilco (a UN world heritage site), you have to drive up a hillside, pull off the paved road, descend a dirt road through fields of greenhouses, and park in front of a sign warning that you’re now in a protected area. Then you have to tromp down a dirt path through more fields filled with flowers (currently marigolds and poinsettias) and lettuces, until you feel as if you might be lost ... at which point you’ll find three fenced-in buildings, with a yard sheltered by a yellow tarp.
The community centre is a new innovation for Tlalpizatli, a neighbourhood established 20 years ago by people with nowhere else to live. It is designated as a slum: in Mexico, a group of at least eight people who build on land they don’t own with no assistance – or services – from the government.The community centre is a new innovation for Tlalpizatli, a neighbourhood established 20 years ago by people with nowhere else to live. It is designated as a slum: in Mexico, a group of at least eight people who build on land they don’t own with no assistance – or services – from the government.
We went at the behest of Techo, a non-profit dedicated to eliminating poverty through community development, education and political action in slums. They’d brought together community leaders from around Mexico City to learn about the government-legislated rights of city dwellers.We went at the behest of Techo, a non-profit dedicated to eliminating poverty through community development, education and political action in slums. They’d brought together community leaders from around Mexico City to learn about the government-legislated rights of city dwellers.
Our women hosts toiled in the kitchen over pitchers of horchata and a huge pot of pozole, the tradition Mexican soup of broth, meat (usually pork, but ours was chicken) and hominy. As is traditional, they invited us to garnish the soups with herbs, onion, radishes, cheese, sour cream, fresh limes and lettuce.Our women hosts toiled in the kitchen over pitchers of horchata and a huge pot of pozole, the tradition Mexican soup of broth, meat (usually pork, but ours was chicken) and hominy. As is traditional, they invited us to garnish the soups with herbs, onion, radishes, cheese, sour cream, fresh limes and lettuce.
The soup, they explained, was a special treat in Aztec culture: when served to the emperor, it was prepared with the flesh of sacrificed babies. Chicken was a pretty tasty substitute, though.The soup, they explained, was a special treat in Aztec culture: when served to the emperor, it was prepared with the flesh of sacrificed babies. Chicken was a pretty tasty substitute, though.
5.30pm GMT17:305.30pm GMT17:30
Feeling peckish?Feeling peckish?
Central Mexico City is a veritable culinary hotspot – to the extent that, earlier this year, three restaurants in Polanco alone were named among the world’s top 50. And we’re very kindly being shown some dishes from leading DF chef Elena Reygadas’s stunning restaurant Rosetta in colonia Roma.Central Mexico City is a veritable culinary hotspot – to the extent that, earlier this year, three restaurants in Polanco alone were named among the world’s top 50. And we’re very kindly being shown some dishes from leading DF chef Elena Reygadas’s stunning restaurant Rosetta in colonia Roma.
But before we do, we must tackle the sticky subject of insects as gourmet food. Our colleague Nick Mead wasted no time in trying a snack of guacamole with chopped fried grasshoppers (pictured), and at Rosetta, Elena names three creepy-crawlies in particular as her favourites to cook with:But before we do, we must tackle the sticky subject of insects as gourmet food. Our colleague Nick Mead wasted no time in trying a snack of guacamole with chopped fried grasshoppers (pictured), and at Rosetta, Elena names three creepy-crawlies in particular as her favourites to cook with:
- Cocopaches: a type of cockroach that lives near to mesquite trees. Elena recently served them up inside nasturtium flowers at the Tate Turbine Hall official dinner for Mexico City artist Abraham Cruzvillegas.- Cocopaches: a type of cockroach that lives near to mesquite trees. Elena recently served them up inside nasturtium flowers at the Tate Turbine Hall official dinner for Mexico City artist Abraham Cruzvillegas.
- Chicatanas: flying ants that are collected at night near bright lights, then salted and toasted – they make a great vinigrette, apparently.- Chicatanas: flying ants that are collected at night near bright lights, then salted and toasted – they make a great vinigrette, apparently.
- Escamoles: the larvae and pupae of a particular type of ant, these have been a delicacy in Mexico since Aztec times, with a nutty taste and cottage cheese-like texture.- Escamoles: the larvae and pupae of a particular type of ant, these have been a delicacy in Mexico since Aztec times, with a nutty taste and cottage cheese-like texture.
We’d love to hear your recommendations, or experiences of eating insects in Mexico City. Tell us in the comments below. MHWe’d love to hear your recommendations, or experiences of eating insects in Mexico City. Tell us in the comments below. MH
5.00pm GMT17:005.00pm GMT17:00
What is it like to cycle in Mexico City?What is it like to cycle in Mexico City?
Mexico City may struggle with the second worst traffic congestion in the world but that doesn’t seem to stop people from wanting to drive – the city is home to 5.5 million cars and rising.Mexico City may struggle with the second worst traffic congestion in the world but that doesn’t seem to stop people from wanting to drive – the city is home to 5.5 million cars and rising.
Stand on the city’s 19th century Paseo de la Reforma during the week and you’ll hear the roar of 10 lanes of traffic. Stop and listen on a Sunday morning though and you’ll hear gears whirring, bells ringing and the chatter of voices as an average 50,000 people take to the streets to cycle, scoot and skate along 35 miles of closed roads in the official Muévete en Bici car-free event.Stand on the city’s 19th century Paseo de la Reforma during the week and you’ll hear the roar of 10 lanes of traffic. Stop and listen on a Sunday morning though and you’ll hear gears whirring, bells ringing and the chatter of voices as an average 50,000 people take to the streets to cycle, scoot and skate along 35 miles of closed roads in the official Muévete en Bici car-free event.
Mexico City dedicates 35 miles of normally car-choked streets to cyclists and pedestrians every Sunday - it's great pic.twitter.com/M7ZNIAmlhzMexico City dedicates 35 miles of normally car-choked streets to cyclists and pedestrians every Sunday - it's great pic.twitter.com/M7ZNIAmlhz
Lots of dogs getting 'walked' at Mexico City's weekly car-free day pic.twitter.com/uxpuQ5bqJjLots of dogs getting 'walked' at Mexico City's weekly car-free day pic.twitter.com/uxpuQ5bqJj
It’s not just about Sunday mornings though. Paseo de la Reforma has segregated bike lanes running along both sides. On a weekday evening, cyclists – many using the Ecobici bike share and wearing ordinary work clothes – seem to get around faster than those who choose to drive.It’s not just about Sunday mornings though. Paseo de la Reforma has segregated bike lanes running along both sides. On a weekday evening, cyclists – many using the Ecobici bike share and wearing ordinary work clothes – seem to get around faster than those who choose to drive.
I’ve been speaking to cycling activists in the city – and riding the streets myself to see what it’s really like. You can read more in the full article on Wednesday. NMI’ve been speaking to cycling activists in the city – and riding the streets myself to see what it’s really like. You can read more in the full article on Wednesday. NM
4.47pm GMT16:474.47pm GMT16:47
Pigwatch: Hour 3Pigwatch: Hour 3
I came across the famous black pig on a night out in la Roma in August #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/fZeLbm8BzpI came across the famous black pig on a night out in la Roma in August #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/fZeLbm8Bzp
The existence of the no-longer-mythical “Roma Pig” has been confirmed. But to root out this truffle of a story, we need more information. What kind of pig is it? What’s its name? What does it eat? Who are its friends? Does it have any political affiliations? And where on earth does it sleep?The existence of the no-longer-mythical “Roma Pig” has been confirmed. But to root out this truffle of a story, we need more information. What kind of pig is it? What’s its name? What does it eat? Who are its friends? Does it have any political affiliations? And where on earth does it sleep?
The hashtag is #GuardianMexicoThe hashtag is #GuardianMexico
CMCM
4.34pm GMT16:344.34pm GMT16:34
As you will see over the course of this week, we are determined to explore the issues facing residents in all parts of the city, not just the wealthier central districts. In particular, our writers and photographers have spent a lot of time in Iztapalapa – a sprawling suburb which the artist Melanie Smith, a DF resident since 1989, made the subject of her haunting video artwork Spiral City.As you will see over the course of this week, we are determined to explore the issues facing residents in all parts of the city, not just the wealthier central districts. In particular, our writers and photographers have spent a lot of time in Iztapalapa – a sprawling suburb which the artist Melanie Smith, a DF resident since 1989, made the subject of her haunting video artwork Spiral City.
In this beautiful interactive gallery, Melanie explains: “I rented a helicopter to fly over the east of the city in 2002, registering the metropolis from above. The helicopter draws a spiral around Iztapalapa, one of the most densely populated and poorest areas of the city. Starting from close to the ground, and slowly gyrating upwards, the image shows the grid of the city and the density of the endless urban spread.In this beautiful interactive gallery, Melanie explains: “I rented a helicopter to fly over the east of the city in 2002, registering the metropolis from above. The helicopter draws a spiral around Iztapalapa, one of the most densely populated and poorest areas of the city. Starting from close to the ground, and slowly gyrating upwards, the image shows the grid of the city and the density of the endless urban spread.
“It was then I started to think about the city in terms of micro and macro: how the city becomes almost like crystalline geological strata forming layers and histories one on top of the other. It’s easy to lose perspective in Mexico City. Everything is constantly moving around you, and the horizon gets lost, both on and above ground.”“It was then I started to think about the city in terms of micro and macro: how the city becomes almost like crystalline geological strata forming layers and histories one on top of the other. It’s easy to lose perspective in Mexico City. Everything is constantly moving around you, and the horizon gets lost, both on and above ground.”
The Guardian Cities team will be in Iztapalapa tomorrow for an event at the Deportivo Chavos Banda, a pioneering community centre that offers a hugely positive vision of this often-troubled Mexico City neighbourhood. Don’t miss our special report. MHThe Guardian Cities team will be in Iztapalapa tomorrow for an event at the Deportivo Chavos Banda, a pioneering community centre that offers a hugely positive vision of this often-troubled Mexico City neighbourhood. Don’t miss our special report. MH
4.04pm GMT16:044.04pm GMT16:04
How is life changing for women in Mexico City?How is life changing for women in Mexico City?
One of the most iconic locations in DF is, of course, la Casa Azul, the cobalt blue-walled former home of artist Frida Kahlo, which was turned into a museum (and veritable pilgrimage site) to document her work and life. Today we have been granted special permission to hold a (non-public) live event in the gardens of the house, and have invited some of the city’s leading women there to discuss life in Mexico City from a female perspective.One of the most iconic locations in DF is, of course, la Casa Azul, the cobalt blue-walled former home of artist Frida Kahlo, which was turned into a museum (and veritable pilgrimage site) to document her work and life. Today we have been granted special permission to hold a (non-public) live event in the gardens of the house, and have invited some of the city’s leading women there to discuss life in Mexico City from a female perspective.
Our guests include the distinguished writer and journalist Elena Poniatowska, leading political analyst Denise Dresser, and the author and former PEN president, Jennifer Clement – not to mention the director of the Frida Kahlo Museum, Hilda Trujillo. The discussion starts at midday local time (6pm in the UK) – follow it on Twitter using #GuardianMexico.Our guests include the distinguished writer and journalist Elena Poniatowska, leading political analyst Denise Dresser, and the author and former PEN president, Jennifer Clement – not to mention the director of the Frida Kahlo Museum, Hilda Trujillo. The discussion starts at midday local time (6pm in the UK) – follow it on Twitter using #GuardianMexico.
In the build-up to this debate, Camilla Brett spent time at the Frida Kahlo Museum talking to visitors about how they think the city is changing for women, and what specific issues they would like the city’s authorities to prioritise. Read her fascinating piece here. MHIn the build-up to this debate, Camilla Brett spent time at the Frida Kahlo Museum talking to visitors about how they think the city is changing for women, and what specific issues they would like the city’s authorities to prioritise. Read her fascinating piece here. MH
Updated at 4.10pm GMTUpdated at 4.10pm GMT
3.50pm GMT15:503.50pm GMT15:50
Pigwatch: Hour 2Pigwatch: Hour 2
We asked you to help us track down the fat black pig that some guy supposedly takes for a walk on a leash in Colonia Roma. You proved right away that citizen journalism is more than just a trendy buzzword.We asked you to help us track down the fat black pig that some guy supposedly takes for a walk on a leash in Colonia Roma. You proved right away that citizen journalism is more than just a trendy buzzword.
I can definitely verify the black pig story, we've seem it being taken for a walk on Alvaro Obregon in Roma Norte! I'll try and obtain some photographic evidence.I can definitely verify the black pig story, we've seem it being taken for a walk on Alvaro Obregon in Roma Norte! I'll try and obtain some photographic evidence.
Then, a hot lead …Then, a hot lead …
#GuardianMexico The pig lives on Calle Merida esq Guanajuato: I've known it since a piglet. Ask Paula at Cafe Raíz, she knows the owner.#GuardianMexico The pig lives on Calle Merida esq Guanajuato: I've known it since a piglet. Ask Paula at Cafe Raíz, she knows the owner.
... and the pig is spotted!... and the pig is spotted!
This is what you were asking for, @guardiancities #GuardianMexico https://t.co/RwyOHS5bWgThis is what you were asking for, @guardiancities #GuardianMexico https://t.co/RwyOHS5bWg
.... por las calles de #LaRoma ..... pic.twitter.com/jh6mjlblQ8.... por las calles de #LaRoma ..... pic.twitter.com/jh6mjlblQ8
If anyone knows the owner, tell him to get in touch – we desperately want to meet the pig.If anyone knows the owner, tell him to get in touch – we desperately want to meet the pig.
Speaking of which, Martin has been having breakfast at the Mercado de Jamaica. (No, no. He’s actually a vegetarian.)Speaking of which, Martin has been having breakfast at the Mercado de Jamaica. (No, no. He’s actually a vegetarian.)
Breakfast at la Flor de Guerrero: huaraches y cafe #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/zPFUIFZEmGBreakfast at la Flor de Guerrero: huaraches y cafe #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/zPFUIFZEmG
And he’s been chatting to the flower sellers at this truly splendid market ...And he’s been chatting to the flower sellers at this truly splendid market ...
Mercado de Jamaica - Mexico City's main flower market #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/UhwUzIjIxsMercado de Jamaica - Mexico City's main flower market #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/UhwUzIjIxs
"There's nothing more beautiful than selling flowers" - Doña Luchita, Mercado de Jamaica, #DF #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/gxuQbhGLds"There's nothing more beautiful than selling flowers" - Doña Luchita, Mercado de Jamaica, #DF #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/gxuQbhGLds
Mercado de Jamaica is open 24hrs a day, 7 days a week - most people work 12-hour shifts. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/KoNpIyZ5v3Mercado de Jamaica is open 24hrs a day, 7 days a week - most people work 12-hour shifts. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/KoNpIyZ5v3
"The best of el #DF? There's work. The worse? The pollution - you feel it in your throat" - Carlos. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/0w12GhmHD1"The best of el #DF? There's work. The worse? The pollution - you feel it in your throat" - Carlos. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/0w12GhmHD1
Meanwhile, the great Guardian balloon ride comes crashing back to earth.Meanwhile, the great Guardian balloon ride comes crashing back to earth.
And the inevitable collapse, as our flight with @Flyingpics_mx comes to an end. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/PYvYZFxvGLAnd the inevitable collapse, as our flight with @Flyingpics_mx comes to an end. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/PYvYZFxvGL
Now that Ben and Megan are back on land, and Martin is wrapping up at the flower market, what should they do next? Tweet us at #guardianmexico – extra points for suggestions that will get them wet.Now that Ben and Megan are back on land, and Martin is wrapping up at the flower market, what should they do next? Tweet us at #guardianmexico – extra points for suggestions that will get them wet.
CMCM
Updated at 3.52pm GMTUpdated at 3.52pm GMT
2.59pm GMT14:592.59pm GMT14:59
What’s that you say? You want to know where in Mexico City they filmed the psychedelic freakout featuring a naked woman on a horse in what’s meant to be 19th-century Havana from Original Sin starring Antonio Banderas and Angelina Jolie?What’s that you say? You want to know where in Mexico City they filmed the psychedelic freakout featuring a naked woman on a horse in what’s meant to be 19th-century Havana from Original Sin starring Antonio Banderas and Angelina Jolie?
Look no further. The location manager from the new Bond film, Spectre, has taken us on a personal guided tour inside the most ornate, inaccessible and generally badass filming spots from all the big Mexico City movies.Look no further. The location manager from the new Bond film, Spectre, has taken us on a personal guided tour inside the most ornate, inaccessible and generally badass filming spots from all the big Mexico City movies.
Related: Licence to shoot: the Spectre location manager's guide to Mexico CityRelated: Licence to shoot: the Spectre location manager's guide to Mexico City
We were particularly thrilled to learn that our temporary HQ on Calle Atlixco is literally one block away from the crucial car crash scene in Amores Perros, the film that put Oscar best director Alejandro González Iñárritu (Birdman) and Gael García Bernal, the OG (original Gosling), on the map.We were particularly thrilled to learn that our temporary HQ on Calle Atlixco is literally one block away from the crucial car crash scene in Amores Perros, the film that put Oscar best director Alejandro González Iñárritu (Birdman) and Gael García Bernal, the OG (original Gosling), on the map.
Which great Mexico City movie locations did I miss? Heckle using #guardianmexico, and if you’re able to include a live photo, we’ll feature it in the liveblog.Which great Mexico City movie locations did I miss? Heckle using #guardianmexico, and if you’re able to include a live photo, we’ll feature it in the liveblog.
CMCM
2.42pm GMT14:422.42pm GMT14:42
Here’s more from the live Q&A …Here’s more from the live Q&A …
Q: Carlota asks via Whatsapp: “I think parks and open green spaces have a strong link with people being able to relax and recharge. More and more parks have been replaced with supermarkets and malls. Are there any plans to create more parks in Mexico City?”Q: Carlota asks via Whatsapp: “I think parks and open green spaces have a strong link with people being able to relax and recharge. More and more parks have been replaced with supermarkets and malls. Are there any plans to create more parks in Mexico City?”
One of the major potential projects is related to the destiny of the current airport. That’s a place where we could have a very big park. It’s 740 hectares – even if we have 50-60% as a park, it would do a lot for that eastern part of the city which is really lacking green spaces. There’s an issue as well in terms of the fact that the city is still growing. One critical factor is that if it expands outwards, it grows in the conservation areas, which is affecting the areas of recharge of the aquifer which are key for the city. But there’s a need for more popular housing. So a big challenge is how to respond to these housing demands and provide green spaces. (Arnoldo)One of the major potential projects is related to the destiny of the current airport. That’s a place where we could have a very big park. It’s 740 hectares – even if we have 50-60% as a park, it would do a lot for that eastern part of the city which is really lacking green spaces. There’s an issue as well in terms of the fact that the city is still growing. One critical factor is that if it expands outwards, it grows in the conservation areas, which is affecting the areas of recharge of the aquifer which are key for the city. But there’s a need for more popular housing. So a big challenge is how to respond to these housing demands and provide green spaces. (Arnoldo)
Q: Dulce Colín asks via Whatsapp: “A resilient city is one where the population has access to rights such as housing. How is your resilience plan linked to this particular right? Are there any measures in place towards the improvement of irregular settlements in the city, with the possibility for them to get regulated?”Q: Dulce Colín asks via Whatsapp: “A resilient city is one where the population has access to rights such as housing. How is your resilience plan linked to this particular right? Are there any measures in place towards the improvement of irregular settlements in the city, with the possibility for them to get regulated?”
In terms of illegal settlements, one critical factor is not to allow increasing illegal settlements in risky areas, and a priority for the resilience office will be to start working to address this. There are two type of actions: you can try to mitigate the risk for those communities … [or] if there are very high risks for them, you need to have a programme to relocate those communities.In terms of illegal settlements, one critical factor is not to allow increasing illegal settlements in risky areas, and a priority for the resilience office will be to start working to address this. There are two type of actions: you can try to mitigate the risk for those communities … [or] if there are very high risks for them, you need to have a programme to relocate those communities.
NMNM
Updated at 2.43pm GMTUpdated at 2.43pm GMT
2.20pm GMT14:202.20pm GMT14:20
Here are some highlights from the live Q&A with Mexico City’s chief resilience officer Arnoldo Matus Kramer …Here are some highlights from the live Q&A with Mexico City’s chief resilience officer Arnoldo Matus Kramer …
Q: What are the biggest existing strengths of Mexico City and what do you feel are DF’s greatest resilience challenges at the moment?Q: What are the biggest existing strengths of Mexico City and what do you feel are DF’s greatest resilience challenges at the moment?
Its greatest strength is that we have faced multiple risks and we learned from them. For example, in 1985 a very large earthquake put the city to a limit, and the authorities were overcome by the size of the disaster – and the response of civil society was very active, and that created a moment of change in terms of creating resilience at a societal level. This started a transition to more democracy and a more active civil society in Mexico. Since 1985, the government has built a national civil protection system so people know what they have to do in case there’s a disaster. You can see the difference with last hurricane in Mexico – Patricia – there were no fatalities even if it was the strongest one in the Pacific.Its greatest strength is that we have faced multiple risks and we learned from them. For example, in 1985 a very large earthquake put the city to a limit, and the authorities were overcome by the size of the disaster – and the response of civil society was very active, and that created a moment of change in terms of creating resilience at a societal level. This started a transition to more democracy and a more active civil society in Mexico. Since 1985, the government has built a national civil protection system so people know what they have to do in case there’s a disaster. You can see the difference with last hurricane in Mexico – Patricia – there were no fatalities even if it was the strongest one in the Pacific.
In terms of challenges, there are many long-term planning issues that are strong risks for the city and metropolitan area, for example water-related risks. We are facing a time in which there’s a constant degradation of local and regional aquifers, which in 20 to 30 years could affect the supply of water to the city. The other challenge is mobility – the average commuting rate for any citizen is 3 hours per day, and speed is decreasing because we have a higher population of cars. Last but not least, social inequalities also impact how we cope with disasters. (Arnoldo)In terms of challenges, there are many long-term planning issues that are strong risks for the city and metropolitan area, for example water-related risks. We are facing a time in which there’s a constant degradation of local and regional aquifers, which in 20 to 30 years could affect the supply of water to the city. The other challenge is mobility – the average commuting rate for any citizen is 3 hours per day, and speed is decreasing because we have a higher population of cars. Last but not least, social inequalities also impact how we cope with disasters. (Arnoldo)
Q: Why is Mexico City is investing so much money in road infrastructure when that does not benefit the majority of the population or solve capacity issues, and are there any plans to expand the inadequate public transport – especially the metro?Q: Why is Mexico City is investing so much money in road infrastructure when that does not benefit the majority of the population or solve capacity issues, and are there any plans to expand the inadequate public transport – especially the metro?
In 2014, the law on mobility changed – now the priority in terms of mobility puts pedestrians at the top of the pyramid, then cyclists, public transport and then cars. This is a change of paradigm that just passed last year. From regulation to investment, we’re now in a transition. You can’t, for sure, say that investing in car infrastructure in Mexico City is resilient. But it’s a transition because we have an embedded systm for investment from decades ago and now we need to act on the change. We started Vision Zero to reduce fatalities – so that will create a change in the urban environment – identifying conflictive roads, for instance.In 2014, the law on mobility changed – now the priority in terms of mobility puts pedestrians at the top of the pyramid, then cyclists, public transport and then cars. This is a change of paradigm that just passed last year. From regulation to investment, we’re now in a transition. You can’t, for sure, say that investing in car infrastructure in Mexico City is resilient. But it’s a transition because we have an embedded systm for investment from decades ago and now we need to act on the change. We started Vision Zero to reduce fatalities – so that will create a change in the urban environment – identifying conflictive roads, for instance.
It’s a big challenge, a big financial one. The city is investing in the metrobus system (our BRT network has gone from 0 lines to 6 lines in 12 years) – and Mexico City will soon become the city with the largest BRT system in the world. And the metro is expanding as well. (Arnoldo)It’s a big challenge, a big financial one. The city is investing in the metrobus system (our BRT network has gone from 0 lines to 6 lines in 12 years) – and Mexico City will soon become the city with the largest BRT system in the world. And the metro is expanding as well. (Arnoldo)
NMNM
Updated at 2.23pm GMTUpdated at 2.23pm GMT
2.20pm GMT14:202.20pm GMT14:20
Now to quickly check in with Megan and Ben’s balloon trip over the city, about which I am not even remotely jealous.Now to quickly check in with Megan and Ben’s balloon trip over the city, about which I am not even remotely jealous.
The Calzada de los Muertos leading to the Teotihuacán pyramids. pic.twitter.com/1m9e34iD8LThe Calzada de los Muertos leading to the Teotihuacán pyramids. pic.twitter.com/1m9e34iD8L
At all.At all.
A more recent cemetery near the Teotihuacán pyramids. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/t75n3WL1CbA more recent cemetery near the Teotihuacán pyramids. #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/t75n3WL1Cb
The local church, bells ringing, and a competitor's balloon. pic.twitter.com/dY9BK28U5TThe local church, bells ringing, and a competitor's balloon. pic.twitter.com/dY9BK28U5T
Martin, meanwhile, has been moved to lyricism by the Mercado de Jamaica ...Martin, meanwhile, has been moved to lyricism by the Mercado de Jamaica ...
"I travelled for years from market to market, because Mexico is in its markets." Pablo Neruda #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/xQBbqrmoHA"I travelled for years from market to market, because Mexico is in its markets." Pablo Neruda #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/xQBbqrmoHA
CMCM
Updated at 2.21pm GMTUpdated at 2.21pm GMT
1.59pm GMT13:591.59pm GMT13:59
Live Q&A starting now …Live Q&A starting now …
Now it’s time to check in at the aforementioned Chief Resilience Officer summit for our live Q&A with Mexico City’s chief resilience officer, Arnoldo Matus Kramer. You can read the discussion live and add your own questions here. Whether you’re concerned about the city’s water issues or have a brilliant new idea for keeping DF’s older residents connected, Arnoldo’s the man to talk to ...Now it’s time to check in at the aforementioned Chief Resilience Officer summit for our live Q&A with Mexico City’s chief resilience officer, Arnoldo Matus Kramer. You can read the discussion live and add your own questions here. Whether you’re concerned about the city’s water issues or have a brilliant new idea for keeping DF’s older residents connected, Arnoldo’s the man to talk to ...
If you want to read more about the resilience summit, check out this article by 100 Resilient Cities president Michael Berkowitz. MHIf you want to read more about the resilience summit, check out this article by 100 Resilient Cities president Michael Berkowitz. MH
1.47pm GMT13:471.47pm GMT13:47
How is Mexico City changing?How is Mexico City changing?
This week we want to hear from you about how this fascinating city is changing. What things have got better – or worse? What would you like to see change? If you live in DF, check out our GuardianWitness callout and share your photographs, videos, thoughts and stories – we’ll feature a selection in a roundup on Friday. In the meantime, here’s a couple we’ve received so far …This week we want to hear from you about how this fascinating city is changing. What things have got better – or worse? What would you like to see change? If you live in DF, check out our GuardianWitness callout and share your photographs, videos, thoughts and stories – we’ll feature a selection in a roundup on Friday. In the meantime, here’s a couple we’ve received so far …
Our three tallest buildings. The last two built simultaneously and really fast.Our three tallest buildings. The last two built simultaneously and really fast.
The area on which these buildings stand, is changing not only the landscape, but all the surroundings, by making out of it something fancier. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing, since there aren't many ways to make a city grow without side effects like raising prices, however, other people oppose: those buildings are just the most visible evidence of a city that instead of eradicating it's poverty, covers it with fancy covers.The area on which these buildings stand, is changing not only the landscape, but all the surroundings, by making out of it something fancier. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing, since there aren't many ways to make a city grow without side effects like raising prices, however, other people oppose: those buildings are just the most visible evidence of a city that instead of eradicating it's poverty, covers it with fancy covers.
Sent via Guardian WitnessSent via Guardian Witness
By Kraven GarcíaBy Kraven García
3 November 2015, 20:363 November 2015, 20:36
MUSEO DE LA MEMORIA Y LA TOLERANCIAMUSEO DE LA MEMORIA Y LA TOLERANCIA
Aunque gran parte del Museo está dedicado al Holocausto -que muchos mexicanos desconocemos en su verdadera proporción y algunos lo desconocen completamente - y a la promoción de los Derechos Humanos y la cultura de paz. México se vuelve cada vez más incluyente, las visitas diarias de estudiantes es asombrosa y conmovedora. Confio en que más espacios de este tipo proliferen en todo el país.Aunque gran parte del Museo está dedicado al Holocausto -que muchos mexicanos desconocemos en su verdadera proporción y algunos lo desconocen completamente - y a la promoción de los Derechos Humanos y la cultura de paz. México se vuelve cada vez más incluyente, las visitas diarias de estudiantes es asombrosa y conmovedora. Confio en que más espacios de este tipo proliferen en todo el país.
Sent via Guardian WitnessSent via Guardian Witness
By ID5223993By ID5223993
5 November 2015, 16:005 November 2015, 16:00
Translation: the Museum of Memory and Tolerance – even though a big part of the museum is dedicated to the Holocaust (the true scale of which many Mexicans don’t know, and some don’t know it at all), it also promotes human rights and a peaceful culture. Mexico is becoming more inclusive, and seeing students visit this museum daily is amazing and moving. I hope spaces like this will proliferate in the whole country.Translation: the Museum of Memory and Tolerance – even though a big part of the museum is dedicated to the Holocaust (the true scale of which many Mexicans don’t know, and some don’t know it at all), it also promotes human rights and a peaceful culture. Mexico is becoming more inclusive, and seeing students visit this museum daily is amazing and moving. I hope spaces like this will proliferate in the whole country.
1.39pm GMT13:391.39pm GMT13:39
It’s just after 7.30am here in Mexico City, and we’re thinking about breakfast. Specifically, the amazing one we had at Restaurante Lardo in Condesa, one of chef Elena Reygadas’ two eateries in Mexico City (the other is Rosetta in colonia Roma). Elena describes her culinary style as “Mexican food with a different point of view”. We describe it as “utterly delicious”. Here is what we were treated to:It’s just after 7.30am here in Mexico City, and we’re thinking about breakfast. Specifically, the amazing one we had at Restaurante Lardo in Condesa, one of chef Elena Reygadas’ two eateries in Mexico City (the other is Rosetta in colonia Roma). Elena describes her culinary style as “Mexican food with a different point of view”. We describe it as “utterly delicious”. Here is what we were treated to:
• Uchepos – fresh corn tamales steamed with lard, salt and sugar:• Uchepos – fresh corn tamales steamed with lard, salt and sugar:
To make this very traditional dish from the state of Michoacan, the corn kernels are first separated from the corn, then processed with soft lard with a touch of salt and sugar. The mix is spooned into the corn husk, then folded, and finally placed in a steamer for an hour.To make this very traditional dish from the state of Michoacan, the corn kernels are first separated from the corn, then processed with soft lard with a touch of salt and sugar. The mix is spooned into the corn husk, then folded, and finally placed in a steamer for an hour.
• Eggs with hoja santa, chile morita sauce and fresh cheese – eggs are made a la plancha, or griddled.• Eggs with hoja santa, chile morita sauce and fresh cheese – eggs are made a la plancha, or griddled.
• Poached eggs with epazote, verdolagas (purslane), and a tomato-and-cumin sauce. Elena highlights the epazote and verdolagas herbs as two of the most distinct flavours in Mexican cooking.• Poached eggs with epazote, verdolagas (purslane), and a tomato-and-cumin sauce. Elena highlights the epazote and verdolagas herbs as two of the most distinct flavours in Mexican cooking.
• Pulque bread (pulque is another alcoholic beverage fermented from the sap of the maguey plant, and used in place of yeast).• Pulque bread (pulque is another alcoholic beverage fermented from the sap of the maguey plant, and used in place of yeast).
• Black beans with fresh cheese• Black beans with fresh cheese
• Plus assorted fruit juices: if you’re ever in Mexico City, do try the celery, parsley and pineapple one ... MH• Plus assorted fruit juices: if you’re ever in Mexico City, do try the celery, parsley and pineapple one ... MH
Updated at 1.41pm GMTUpdated at 1.41pm GMT
1.15pm GMT13:151.15pm GMT13:15
Throughout the day, our intrepid reporters at large – Martin Hodgson, Megan Carpentier and Ben Hicks – are escapading in various capacities throughout Mexico City. Ten points if you spot them, 20 for a selfie, 30 for a lock of Ben’s hair. That hashtag again is #guardianmexicoThroughout the day, our intrepid reporters at large – Martin Hodgson, Megan Carpentier and Ben Hicks – are escapading in various capacities throughout Mexico City. Ten points if you spot them, 20 for a selfie, 30 for a lock of Ben’s hair. That hashtag again is #guardianmexico
Megan and Ben are getting things started with a balloon ride to see the sun rise over the pyramids, obviously.Megan and Ben are getting things started with a balloon ride to see the sun rise over the pyramids, obviously.
Sun rising over the pyramid at Teotihuacán #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/3an69ClK82Sun rising over the pyramid at Teotihuacán #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/3an69ClK82
Martin, meanwhile, is visiting as many markets as he can in a day, starting with the Mercado de Jamaica and with any luck ending up in the Central de Abastos, the largest market in the city (indeed, with 30,000 tonnes of food daily, perhaps the largest in all of Latin America). As Melanie Smith writes: “It’s a heady, chaotic place where it is difficult to comprehend the scale of consumption within the city. It feels like a 24-hour engine that never switches off, where large and small scale meet; a place of overflow in all senses.”Martin, meanwhile, is visiting as many markets as he can in a day, starting with the Mercado de Jamaica and with any luck ending up in the Central de Abastos, the largest market in the city (indeed, with 30,000 tonnes of food daily, perhaps the largest in all of Latin America). As Melanie Smith writes: “It’s a heady, chaotic place where it is difficult to comprehend the scale of consumption within the city. It feels like a 24-hour engine that never switches off, where large and small scale meet; a place of overflow in all senses.”
If you have any suggestions for where Martin should visit next, tweet us at #guardianmexicoIf you have any suggestions for where Martin should visit next, tweet us at #guardianmexico
CMCM
Updated at 1.40pm GMTUpdated at 1.40pm GMT
12.59pm GMT12:5912.59pm GMT12:59
Running and cycling around busy streets in Mexico City, I’ve often felt the pollution bite at back of my throat - but air quality has improved markedly since the 1980s when it was named the most polluted city in the world. Much of this was down to moving oil refineries outside the Federal District boundaries and introducing cleaner buses.Running and cycling around busy streets in Mexico City, I’ve often felt the pollution bite at back of my throat - but air quality has improved markedly since the 1980s when it was named the most polluted city in the world. Much of this was down to moving oil refineries outside the Federal District boundaries and introducing cleaner buses.
Between 1990 and 2012, ozone levels have fallen from 43 to 27 parts per billion; sulphur dioxide from 55 to five parts per billion, and carbon monoxide from 84 to 10 parts per billion – and Mexico City’s Air Quality Index is now often in same range as some US cities.Between 1990 and 2012, ozone levels have fallen from 43 to 27 parts per billion; sulphur dioxide from 55 to five parts per billion, and carbon monoxide from 84 to 10 parts per billion – and Mexico City’s Air Quality Index is now often in same range as some US cities.
Air quality has improved despite the growth of the city and an increase in the number of cars (to 5.5 million according to the latest estimates). City environment minister Tanya Müller has expanded the Hoy No Circula (Day without a car) initiative - where older cars are banned from being driven on certain days - much to the annoyance of some.Air quality has improved despite the growth of the city and an increase in the number of cars (to 5.5 million according to the latest estimates). City environment minister Tanya Müller has expanded the Hoy No Circula (Day without a car) initiative - where older cars are banned from being driven on certain days - much to the annoyance of some.
There are 42 air quality monitoring stations around city, with the data shown live on screens in Müller’s office overlooking the Zócalo main square. They are also publicly available via a website and an app.There are 42 air quality monitoring stations around city, with the data shown live on screens in Müller’s office overlooking the Zócalo main square. They are also publicly available via a website and an app.
Mexico City environment minister Tanya Muller explains the live pollution monitoring screens in @SEDEMA_CDMX office pic.twitter.com/sV9yMl2Ju5Mexico City environment minister Tanya Muller explains the live pollution monitoring screens in @SEDEMA_CDMX office pic.twitter.com/sV9yMl2Ju5
But even though Mexico City has cleaned up its act, it still faces the problem of pollution washing into the Federal District from the State of Mexico to the north, which is then trapped in the city by a range of mountains. “Most days air currents move north to south, bringing pollutants from the State of Mexico into Mexico City itself,” says Müller. “Our main challenge now is that pollution travels.”But even though Mexico City has cleaned up its act, it still faces the problem of pollution washing into the Federal District from the State of Mexico to the north, which is then trapped in the city by a range of mountains. “Most days air currents move north to south, bringing pollutants from the State of Mexico into Mexico City itself,” says Müller. “Our main challenge now is that pollution travels.”
NMNM
Updated at 1.10pm GMTUpdated at 1.10pm GMT
12.50pm GMT12:5012.50pm GMT12:50
We can’t come to Mexico City without a mention of Lucha Libre – but the subject of one of our stories has used Mexico’s wrestling heritage as the inspiration for a very different line of work. Meet Peatónito, the pedestrian superhero fighting a one-man campaign to make his city more pedestrian friendly:We can’t come to Mexico City without a mention of Lucha Libre – but the subject of one of our stories has used Mexico’s wrestling heritage as the inspiration for a very different line of work. Meet Peatónito, the pedestrian superhero fighting a one-man campaign to make his city more pedestrian friendly:
“Lucha Libre is deep-rooted in Mexican life, but the idea [for Peatónito] came to me the day I took a few foreign friends along to see a fight. If we’ve had Superbarrio, why can’t we imagine the street as a wrestling ring?”“Lucha Libre is deep-rooted in Mexican life, but the idea [for Peatónito] came to me the day I took a few foreign friends along to see a fight. If we’ve had Superbarrio, why can’t we imagine the street as a wrestling ring?”
Meanwhile our Guardian colleagues Ben Hicks and Martin Hodgson went to a Lucha Libra bout yesterday – here’s Ben’s breathless report:Meanwhile our Guardian colleagues Ben Hicks and Martin Hodgson went to a Lucha Libra bout yesterday – here’s Ben’s breathless report:
Lucha Libre at the Arena Mexico #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/PADhEx5okYLucha Libre at the Arena Mexico #GuardianMexico pic.twitter.com/PADhEx5okY
“Sunday is family day at Lucha Libra. Six-year-old girls with their 80-year-old grandmothers roaring on their favourite wrestlers. Mexican wrestling has a reputation as the most entertaining in the world and it doesn’t disappoint. The wrestlers themselves represent extreme versions of every modern archetype: the classic masked man who body slams his opponents; the shadow, in black, growling and gurning at the baying crowd; the gay stereotype who kisses his opponents mid brawl. Tag teams and anarchy, titillation and tantrums. All the performers are highly skilled gymnasts and actors; this is Mexican culture at its most grotesque, yet strangely beautiful and life affirming.”“Sunday is family day at Lucha Libra. Six-year-old girls with their 80-year-old grandmothers roaring on their favourite wrestlers. Mexican wrestling has a reputation as the most entertaining in the world and it doesn’t disappoint. The wrestlers themselves represent extreme versions of every modern archetype: the classic masked man who body slams his opponents; the shadow, in black, growling and gurning at the baying crowd; the gay stereotype who kisses his opponents mid brawl. Tag teams and anarchy, titillation and tantrums. All the performers are highly skilled gymnasts and actors; this is Mexican culture at its most grotesque, yet strangely beautiful and life affirming.”
MHMH
Updated at 1.22pm GMTUpdated at 1.22pm GMT
12.24pm GMT12:2412.24pm GMT12:24
The Guardian Cities team is staying in Condesa this week, in a street that featured in the canine classic Amores Perros (more of that later), and has recently been gripped by a worrying spate of dog-related crimes. We’ll be watching that story closely this week.The Guardian Cities team is staying in Condesa this week, in a street that featured in the canine classic Amores Perros (more of that later), and has recently been gripped by a worrying spate of dog-related crimes. We’ll be watching that story closely this week.
Another four-legged mystery we’re keen to investigate is the large black pig that supposedly gets taken for a walk on a lead every day in nearby Roma. Please tell us this is more than just a shaggy pig story – if anyone can provide us with visual evidence, email us at mexicocity.week@theguardian.com or tweet us using the hashtag #GuardianMexico.Another four-legged mystery we’re keen to investigate is the large black pig that supposedly gets taken for a walk on a lead every day in nearby Roma. Please tell us this is more than just a shaggy pig story – if anyone can provide us with visual evidence, email us at mexicocity.week@theguardian.com or tweet us using the hashtag #GuardianMexico.
Meanwhile, across mighty Chapultepec Park in Polanco, today marks the start of the Rockefeller Foundation’s second annual Chief Resilience Officer Summit, at which urban experts from across the world meet to share ideas and experiences that could make all their cities stronger.Meanwhile, across mighty Chapultepec Park in Polanco, today marks the start of the Rockefeller Foundation’s second annual Chief Resilience Officer Summit, at which urban experts from across the world meet to share ideas and experiences that could make all their cities stronger.
The man charged with making Mexico City more resilient is Arnoldo Matus Kramer, and we’ll be putting questions about the city to him in just over an hour’s time, live on the Guardian Cities site. There’s still time to send us your question. MHThe man charged with making Mexico City more resilient is Arnoldo Matus Kramer, and we’ll be putting questions about the city to him in just over an hour’s time, live on the Guardian Cities site. There’s still time to send us your question. MH
12.00pm GMT12:0012.00pm GMT12:00
Buenos días, Ciudad de México!Buenos días, Ciudad de México!
Welcome to the third of Guardian Cities’ special live weeks – after Mumbai and Moscow, this time we’ve relocated to the beautiful, much misunderstood capital of Mexico.Welcome to the third of Guardian Cities’ special live weeks – after Mumbai and Moscow, this time we’ve relocated to the beautiful, much misunderstood capital of Mexico.
What are we doing here? Simply, we want to get beyond the cliches and the stereotypes, and learn the realities of life in DF from the people who know best – its residents, wherever they live in this sprawling metropolis.What are we doing here? Simply, we want to get beyond the cliches and the stereotypes, and learn the realities of life in DF from the people who know best – its residents, wherever they live in this sprawling metropolis.
There will, along the way, be some difficult truths, but there will also be uplifting stories that reveal surprising new sides to the city – even, we hope, for those who have spent their lives here.There will, along the way, be some difficult truths, but there will also be uplifting stories that reveal surprising new sides to the city – even, we hope, for those who have spent their lives here.
Chilangos everywhere, we’d love to hear from you – here’s how to get involved, and even come along to two special live events (here and here) later in the week.Chilangos everywhere, we’d love to hear from you – here’s how to get involved, and even come along to two special live events (here and here) later in the week.
And if you haven’t already, what better way to kick off the week than by watching the rather brilliant video above, made by our new friend Santiago Arau – a photographer and film-maker who will stop at nothing to get the perfect picture. For another example, check out his photographs for Valeria Luiselli’s gorgeous piece about Mexico City’s rooftops.And if you haven’t already, what better way to kick off the week than by watching the rather brilliant video above, made by our new friend Santiago Arau – a photographer and film-maker who will stop at nothing to get the perfect picture. For another example, check out his photographs for Valeria Luiselli’s gorgeous piece about Mexico City’s rooftops.
Nuestra semana en vivo en la Ciudad de México es bilingüe, y muchos de nuestros artículos serán también publicados en español. Sin embargo, este blog en vivo será sólo en inglés – así que, si te gustaría comentar nuestra semana en español, por favor envíanos un email a mexicocity.week@theguardian.com, tuitea usando el hashtag #GuardianMexico o contáctanos por WhatsApp añadiendo el número +447881337758 como contacto y mandándoleel mensaje “subscribe” por WhatsApp.Nuestra semana en vivo en la Ciudad de México es bilingüe, y muchos de nuestros artículos serán también publicados en español. Sin embargo, este blog en vivo será sólo en inglés – así que, si te gustaría comentar nuestra semana en español, por favor envíanos un email a mexicocity.week@theguardian.com, tuitea usando el hashtag #GuardianMexico o contáctanos por WhatsApp añadiendo el número +447881337758 como contacto y mandándoleel mensaje “subscribe” por WhatsApp.
MHMH
Updated at 6.16pm GMTUpdated at 6.16pm GMT