**DIF State Employees Demand Better Wages in Tijuana and Ensenada**
On October 24, 2024, employees of the State Rehabilitation Center (CRI) in Tijuana and workers from the State DIF’s Office of Child and Family Advocacy in Ensenada held protests demanding fair wage increases. After working under protest for 100 days, the CRI staff continued their demands, leading to a work stoppage from 7:00 to 10:00 AM on the same day.
Karina Castillo, a psychologist at CRI, stated that the work stoppage was due to unmet demands for a salary increase that, despite being promised, has not significantly improved their living standards. The transition from contract employees to trusted staff meant new benefits, such as pension contributions, but also higher taxes. Consequently, this left some workers earning less than before, which they claim was unexpected.
Moreover, this change affected their tenure within the organization, with some staff losing recognition for years of service. Despite these challenges, CRI workers committed to continuing quality care for their patients and emphasized that their protest was peaceful, motivated by a desire for fair treatment.
Isaura Parra, another psychologist, noted that on October 16, employees were informed of the changes impacting about 406 workers across the state, including 16 at CRI. This group includes professionals from various fields, all demanding justice in the workplace.
The Ensenada protest featured workers from the Child and Family Advocacy Office, who participated in a symbolic work stoppage from 9:00 AM to noon, carrying signs with the message “Our families matter too.” These professionals, including lawyers, psychologists, and social workers, play vital roles in protecting vulnerable children and families.
The workers expressed frustration over contracts that hinder their ability to build tenure and stressed the need for dignified work conditions and competitive wages, urging the authorities to address these systemic issues.
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**Secondary Article: Recent Developments in the Wage Protest Movement in Baja California**
As the demand for better wages and working conditions continues in Tijuana and Ensenada, a broader discussion has been sparked across Baja California regarding labor rights for public service employees. Many similar protests have emerged in neighboring regions as employees seek equitable compensation.
Local government representatives have acknowledged the concerns raised by the employees and announced plans to review wage policies, promising dialogues with labor unions and worker representatives to find viable solutions.
The movement in Baja California reflects a growing awareness and advocacy for labor rights within public institutions, a wave that is likely to gather momentum, as more sectors are encouraged to voice their concerns. These developments not only aim to improve immediate wage issues but also strive to establish lasting reforms that recognize the dedication and contributions of public service workers across the state.
The situation remains dynamic, and employee representatives continue to engage with authorities to ensure that their demands for fair wages do not go unheard. These discussions are crucial for establishing a precedent for how wage disputes are handled in public service sectors across Mexico.