Julio César Zúñiga Palacios, a prominent Mexican gay activist and sports representative, was murdered in Tlalnepantla, Estado de México. Known as Julia among friends, he was shot eight times at his workplace. Julia was involved in various LGBT sports organizations and was a member of the PRI. The authorities are investigating the homicide, with speculation about it being a hate crime. The international LGBT community has expressed solidarity, and a fundraising page has been set up to support Julia's mother. A public statement from the Gay Football League is expected on December 3.

Jorge Luis González Hernández was found guilty of the aggravated femicide of Lesvy Berlín Rivera Osorio, who was murdered in Ciudad Universitaria on May 3, 2017. The judges cited the relationship between Jorge Luis and Lesvy, gender-based violence, and his direct involvement in the murder as reasons for the verdict. The victim's family received the decision emotionally, and the next steps will involve determining the sentence and moral damage reparations. The case has sparked protests against gender violence, with calls for the maximum penalty for femicide.

A young woman recounts her harrowing experience of being raped at the University of Chapingo, highlighting systemic issues of gender violence and institutional failures. Despite the university's promises of reforms, many cases of sexual assault and gender-based violence remain unaddressed, leading to widespread criticism. The article underscores the need for comprehensive legal and psychological support for survivors and calls for significant changes in university policies to ensure safety and justice for female students.

Mexican nurses migrating to Germany under a program supervised by the Servicio Nacional de Empleo face exploitation and harsh working conditions. Despite promises of better opportunities, many nurses experience long hours, inadequate pay, and lack of support. The situation is exacerbated by unregulated recruitment agencies, leading to comparisons with human trafficking. Efforts are underway to reform the program to ensure fair treatment and proper recognition of qualifications.

A German writer living in Mexico reported harassment in the Metro but was later accused of extorting men through a viral Facebook post. The incident highlights the broader issue of digital violence against women in Mexico, where unauthorized image sharing and false accusations are prevalent. Organizations like Luchadoras and R3D advocate for women's digital rights and recommend reporting such incidents to digital platforms and authorities. The article criticizes the lack of gender perspective and training among Mexican authorities in handling these cases and calls for greater transparency between digital platforms and law enforcement.

Pedro César Carrizales Becerra, known as El Mijis, transformed from a gang leader in San Luis Potosí to an elected deputy focused on youth rehabilitation. Winning the local deputy seat for District VIII with the coalition Juntos Haremos Historia, he has been recognized for his efforts to reintegrate gang members into society through his organization, Un Grito de Existencia. Despite facing accusations and challenges, El Mijis remains committed to creating social change, advocating for better police salaries, and establishing a community police force to mediate gang conflicts. His political alignment with the left stems from their support for his autonomous initiatives.

Authorities in Mexico City took nearly a month to search for Mariela Vanessa Díaz Valverde, a 21-year-old UNAM student who disappeared on April 27. Her sister, Gaby, criticized the authorities for indirectly suggesting they were searching for a body rather than a living person. The authorities returned Mariela's computer, unable to access it, and claimed that surveillance footage no longer exists. UNAM students protested, demanding her safe return.

Marion Reimers, a pioneering Mexican sports journalist, faces severe digital violence and misogyny, particularly from coordinated bot attacks on Twitter. Despite her significant contributions to sports journalism and advocacy for women's inclusion in sports, Reimers endures relentless online harassment. The article highlights the broader issue of misogyny in sports and digital spaces, questioning the complicity of media and social platforms in perpetuating such violence. It also underscores the financial and operational scale of these attacks, calling for greater accountability and safer online environments for women.

A network of feminist women in Sinaloa, Mexico, is guiding home abortions using misoprostol, a medication originally created for treating gastric ulcers. Despite the legal restrictions and potential penalties, these women, including members of Interrupción Legal del Embarazo Sinaloa, are committed to helping others terminate pregnancies safely. They have learned the procedure from the World Health Organization's guidelines and have been inspired by the pioneering work of Las Libres de Guanajuato. The article highlights the emotional and logistical challenges faced by these women, as well as their dedication to supporting others in a state where abortion is heavily restricted.

In Mazatlán, the new school year for preschoolers at Jardín de Niños Gandhi began with virtual classes conducted via a WhatsApp group chat. Parents and teachers faced challenges in adapting to this new format, including issues with digital introductions and lack of contact information. The community played a crucial role in bridging these gaps, with local residents helping to share necessary information. Despite the difficulties, including lack of resources and the need for parents to take on teaching roles, the school decided to forgo national televised classes in favor of their own planned activities.

The article discusses the ineffectiveness of the Ley Olimpia in Mexico, which aims to combat non-consensual distribution of intimate images. Despite numerous complaints, no prosecutions have been made, leaving victims like Janeth Rosas without justice. The article highlights the challenges faced by victims in getting their cases taken seriously by authorities and the need for better implementation and enforcement of the law. It also mentions the efforts of organizations like Frente Nacional para la Sororidad in advocating for women's rights and legal reforms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted access to legal abortion services in Mexico, with a reported decrease of up to 40% in some clinics. Travel restrictions, fear of infection, and limited transportation options have contributed to this decline. Clinics like Fundación Naiset and Marie Stopes have faced operational challenges, including reduced patient visits and supply chain disruptions for essential medications. The UNFPA highlights a broader regional impact, estimating a regression in reproductive rights by 40 years in Latin America, with millions of women facing difficulties in accessing contraceptives, leading to unintended pregnancies and associated health risks.

The article reflects on the author's annual ritual of abstaining from alcohol in January, dubbed 'Drynuary,' and the accompanying tradition of drinking tea. It delves into the cultural and philosophical significance of tea, particularly through the lens of Okakura Kakuzo's 'The Book of Tea.' The narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with reflections on self-care, literature, and the contrasting approaches of science and humanities in seeking meaning. The author praises Okakura's insights and literary style, highlighting the enduring relevance of his work in bridging Eastern and Western philosophies.

The article recounts the author's personal experiences leading up to the Taiwanese elections, marked by a series of unsettling events. It discusses the potential return to power of the Kuomintang, a party advocating for unification with China, and the dread of 'national doom' associated with it. The author, a journalist and activist, describes the chaotic election campaign, the incompetence of parachute journalists, and the eventual victory of Tsai Ing-wen and the Democratic Progressive Party, which signals a continuation of liberal reforms and the defeat of right-wing populism. The article also highlights the success of progressive youth candidates and reflects on the broader implications of the election results for future generations.

Jack Pendarvis offers a unique and personal interpretation of the classic American novel 'Moby-Dick' through a series of weekly transcriptions. The text captures his reflections, humorous asides, and detailed observations about the characters and themes of the book. Pendarvis discusses various elements of the novel, including the character dynamics and the symbolic significance of the whale, while also sharing his own experiences and thoughts related to the reading process.

A community in Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico, experiences a series of thefts, leading to a dramatic neighborhood response. The narrative follows the author's observations and interactions with neighbors, including a vocal woman named Maricela and an influential figure known as The Brother. Despite calling the police, the community takes matters into their own hands, attempting to catch the thief who repeatedly targets a house owned by a teachers' union. The police are criticized for their slow response and ineffectiveness, while the community's efforts highlight their determination to protect their neighborhood.

The absence of Teresa Incháustegui, former director of the Instituto de las Mujeres, led to the postponement of the verdict in the Lesvy Berlín Rivera Osorio trial until October 4. The judge, José Juan Pérez, has requested that Incháustegui be notified of her obligation to testify due to her previous position. During the hearing, the parents of the accused, Jorge Luis González Hernández, testified, stating they were unaware of their son's health habits. The next hearing is scheduled for October 4 at 9:00 AM at the same tribunal.

Alejandra López, once a model and beauty queen, struggles with social stigma and discrimination after serving a prison sentence in Argentina for ephedrine trafficking. Despite denying any connection to El Chapo Guzmán, her past associations and the label 'Queen of Ephedrine' have hindered her ability to find stable employment. Her story highlights the challenges faced by individuals trying to rebuild their lives after incarceration, amidst societal prejudices and legal battles.

On May 9, 2017, 17-year-old Alexis García was killed by a stray bullet while selling flowers for Mother's Day in a market in Colima. Known as 'El Pelón' and aspiring to be a professional football player, he was caught in crossfire between two criminal gangs. His grandmother, María de los Ángeles Pérez García, refutes claims by authorities that Alexis was involved in wrongdoing, noting that his funeral was attended by young athletes and teachers. The family attributes the tragedy to the insecurity in Colima, where his cousin reports hearing up to four shootouts a week in their neighborhood.

The article reports on the low number of migrant detentions in Palenque from January to April, contrasting with higher figures from previous years and a sudden spike in May. It describes the random nature of detentions at the Nutuntun checkpoint and the challenging conditions faced by migrants. The article also highlights the involvement of various authorities, including the National Guard and the National Migration Institute, and raises concerns about human rights and the treatment of migrants.

Zenaida, a 19-year-old, was killed in Veracruz, Mexico, while traveling with other migrants to the United States. She had paid a smuggler $11,000 to reach California. The attack on the vehicle carrying Zenaida and other migrants resulted in her death and injuries to two men. Conflicting reports arose regarding the incident, with local authorities suggesting police involvement, while the Secretary of Security and Protection claimed the migrants fired first. Previous incidents on the same route were noted. The family, devastated by the loss, faces challenges in repatriating Zenaida's body. The case remains under investigation by Mexican authorities, with involvement from El Salvador's consulate.

Cathy Muamba Monalshide, a 43-year-old woman from Kananga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, fled her war-torn country in December 2018 due to the Kamwina Nsapu rebellion. After a harrowing journey through nine Latin American countries, she arrived in Mexico City with her youngest son on March 8, 2019. Cathy recounts the atrocities she witnessed, including militia violence and forced familial violations. Now living in a refuge in Mexico City, she is learning Spanish and computer skills while awaiting refugee status. Despite the challenges, she feels safer in Mexico and hopes to find work to support her family. The article highlights the broader context of Congolese refugees and the support provided by various organizations.

A black market for HIV medications is easily accessible on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and dating apps such as Grindr. Medications like Truvada, Atripla, and Kivexa are sold at significantly reduced prices due to impending expiration dates. Patients, some without income, resort to selling their surplus treatments. The article highlights the risks of purchasing non-original medications and the potential for treatment interruption to lead to drug resistance. It also discusses the financial burden of HIV treatment in Mexico and the reported shortages of antiretrovirals in public health institutions. The Mexican government attributes these shortages to changes in procurement processes to combat corruption. Facebook has stated that it prohibits the sale of medications and will remove violating content.

Steve Coogan's portrayal of Alan Partridge in his new show serves as a satirical lens through which the complexities and absurdities of Brexit, particularly the Northern Irish backstop, are examined. The article critiques the polarized political landscape in the UK, highlighting the ignorance and radicalization that have emerged post-Brexit vote. It underscores the importance of the backstop as an insurance policy to prevent chaos in Northern Ireland, while criticizing hardline Brexiteers and the Conservative Party for their stance against it. The piece also touches on the cultural and historical context, referencing the Good Friday Agreement and the resurgence of the IRA.

The author reminisces about their childhood in the La Paloma housing complex in the center of Puerto de Veracruz, where they spent time with neighbors Denisse and Betito, children of a single mother. The author recalls the thrill of being unsupervised and the desire to order pizza, a treat usually reserved for special occasions. To fund the pizza, the author and a neighbor, Sergio, started a club to collect money by selling candies, but their savings were stolen. The author's attempt to raise money by asking neighbors for donations was cut short by an angry call from their father, leading to a public embarrassment and a resolve to one day earn enough to buy their own pizzas.

The author recounts a day in Berlin, highlighting encounters with a street performer known as the Celine Dion busker on the U7 line. The narrative includes personal reflections on daily life, a challenging work meeting, and a visit to a notary for a citizenship application. The busker's persistent rendition of 'My Heart Will Go On' serves as a recurring motif throughout the day.

Half an hour before the 2019 Oscars began, the local government in Tlaxiaco struggled to set up a live stream of the event in the main square using a homemade PVC antenna, which failed to work. Despite the improvised setup and competing local events like Carnival and Flag Day, the community eventually managed to broadcast the ceremony. The crowd celebrated Roma's wins for Best Foreign Film and Best Cinematography, although there was disappointment when Yalitza Aparicio did not win Best Actress. The event highlighted both the local pride in Aparicio and the logistical challenges of organizing such a public viewing.

The author describes their daily life in Mexico City, focusing on their home, neighborhood, and local interactions. They recount their routine, including working from home, visiting a favorite restaurant, and interactions with local shopkeepers. The narrative highlights the community dynamics and personal reflections on the changes and challenges faced in their environment.

The article discusses the challenges faced by women in Baja California regarding access to safe and legal abortion services. It highlights the role of economic and class disparities, as women with visas and financial means can travel to the United States for abortions, while others resort to unsafe clandestine procedures. The collective Las Bloodys assists women in crossing the border for medical abortions. The article also touches on the social isolation experienced by women who have abortions and the legal issues surrounding miscarriages, which are sometimes prosecuted as homicides. Legal organizations like AsíLegal and GIRE are working to provide legal counsel and document cases where women are unjustly convicted.

Books often become 'things' through critical acclaim and media attention, which can overshadow their intrinsic qualities. The author argues that many books, like Karl Ove Knausgård's memoirs and Jonathan Franzen's novels, are simply 'fine'—neither mediocre nor excellent. However, the literary marketplace's need to rate and value books disrupts this fine-ness, leading to polarized opinions and heightened expectations. The text critiques the cultural mechanisms that elevate certain books while leaving others unnoticed, emphasizing the underrated value of books that are just 'fine.'

Iran has faced a long history of foreign intervention and exploitation, particularly concerning its oil resources. The British and later the Americans played significant roles in shaping Iran's political landscape, including the 1953 coup that reinstated the Shah. The Shah's regime, supported by the U.S., was marked by authoritarian rule and suppression of political dissent. The 1979 revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini drastically changed Iran's relationship with the U.S., resulting in prolonged sanctions and economic hardships. Despite attempts at reform and international agreements like the JCPOA, recent U.S. policies under President Trump have re-imposed sanctions, further straining Iran's economy and international relations.

María Salguero, a geophysics engineer from Mexico City, has been independently tracking femicides in Mexico for over two years, creating a detailed map that highlights the extent of violence against women across the country. Her work, which involves daily updates and extensive data collection, has gained recognition from the Senate and UN Women. Despite the psychological toll and lack of financial support, María continues her efforts, aiming to secure more resources and pursue further education to enhance her project. Her map has become a vital reference for academics, journalists, and policymakers, shedding light on the pervasive issue of femicides in Mexico.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Ghanaian education, particularly through the lens of Francis, a former teacher who now manages an organic farm. It critiques the content of social studies textbooks that blame Ghana's poverty on cultural factors and a 'dependency mentality,' while downplaying the impacts of colonialism and neoliberal economic policies. The narrative highlights the contradictions in these educational materials and the broader implications for Ghana's national identity and development. Francis's personal story underscores the tension between teaching for exams and fostering critical thinking and leadership in students.

Nearly nine months after the September 19 earthquake, 16 families continue to live in a camp on Calzada de Tlalpan, awaiting the reconstruction or reinforcement of their damaged buildings. The residents accuse authorities of inaction and have resorted to blocking a major avenue in Mexico City in protest. The article shares personal stories of individuals affected, highlighting their struggles with inadequate living conditions and the lack of government support. The community has formed a close-knit group, but tensions and frustrations remain high as they seek a return to normalcy.

Yesica Celene Hernández Mujica, a 28-year-old woman, was tragically murdered by her ex-partner, Óscar Alejandro Munguía, at her workplace in Mexico City. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of feminicide in Mexico, with 64 similar cases reported in January alone. Yesica, who worked at Nine West, was well-regarded by her family and colleagues. Following the crime, Munguía attempted suicide and remains hospitalized. Nine West has covered all funeral expenses, and there was no custody dispute over their child. The article underscores the prevalence of domestic violence and the impact on victims' families.

Sergio Iván Ruíz Castillo, a freelance photographer, survived the collapse of a nine-story building in Condesa, Mexico City, during an earthquake. Trapped under the rubble and holding his deceased mother's hand, he was rescued after more than 24 hours. His mother and uncle died instantly during the collapse. Sergio was hospitalized with serious injuries but is optimistic about his recovery. He recalls the names of the rescuers and expresses gratitude for their efforts. Facing psychological challenges and without medical insurance, Sergio is open to donations and job offers to rebuild his life.

Lupita Nyong'o, an Oscar-nominated actress for her role in '12 Years a Slave', spent six months in Taxco, Mexico, at the age of 16, immersing herself in the local culture with her sister. Born in Mexico City in 1983 and raised in Kenya, Lupita returned to Mexico to study Spanish at UNAM's Centro de Estudios para Extranjeros. Her teachers, including Alicia Fonol, remembered her as a beautiful and intelligent student with excellent Spanish. Lupita's father, Peter Anyang Nyong'o, had previously taught at the Colegio de México, which may have contributed to her language skills. The Nyong'o sisters lived independently in an apartment rented from artist Violante Ulrich and were active in the school's cultural activities. Locals in Taxco remember Lupita fondly and take pride in her Hollywood success, recognizing her as the Oscar-winning actress. Lupita's mother, Dorothy Nyong'o, highlighted the significance of her daughter's education in acting and the decision to send her to Mexico as pivotal moments in her career.