**Journalists in Tijuana Create Day of the Dead Altar for Slain Mexican Reporters**
In a poignant tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in Mexico, a group of journalists in Tijuana has constructed a Day of the Dead altar at the State Center for the Arts (Ceart). The commemorative space serves to honor the memories of those who have paid the ultimate price for their dedication to freedom of expression and the pursuit of truth.
Vicente Calderón, a seasoned Tijuana journalist, highlighted the grim statistics by citing data from UNESCO, indicating that eight journalists have been murdered in Mexico over the past year alone. The altar, adorned with candles, books, newspapers, and traditional Mexican symbols like catrinas, was also a gesture of solidarity with UNESCO’s campaign to end impunity against crimes targeting the press.
Among the names memorialized in this venue are Luisiano Rivera, murdered in Rosarito in 2017, and the tragic cases of Lourdes Maldonado and photographer Margarito Martínez, both killed in 2022. The recent losses of Patricia Ramírez González in Colima on October 30, 2024, and Alejandro Alfredo Martínez in Guanajuato on August 4, 2024, add to this distressing list.
Calderón remarked on the ongoing threats faced by journalists, which often deter them from pursuing sensitive stories. He called on authorities to fulfill their obligations to protect and bring justice to those in the journalistic field.
**Secondary Article: New Developments in Cases of Slain Mexican Journalists**
The struggle for justice in Mexico continues as several high-profile cases involving the murder of journalists remain unresolved or only partially addressed. Despite convictions in some cases, such as that of Margarito Martínez, efforts to apprehend those who orchestrated the crimes have stalled, leading to frustration among the journalistic community and the public.
Authorities assert progress in investigations like that of Lourdes Maldonado, where three individuals have been sentenced. However, detractors argue that without capturing the intellectual authors of these crimes, justice remains unfulfilled.
Events involving the press often come under close scrutiny during the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, which UNESCO endorses each November. This year, the focus remains on enhancing security measures and reinforcing the legal framework to safeguard journalists and people exercising their right to free speech in Mexico.
As the world observes the persistent challenges faced by journalists in Mexico, the call for stronger protective measures and more assertive justice continues to reverberate.
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**Related Happenings in Tijuana This Weekend:**
1. **Day of the Dead Festival at Cecut**: The State Center for the Arts will also feature a festival celebrating Day of the Dead, inviting locals and tourists alike to partake in this cultural festivity.
2. **World’s Largest Pan de Muerto**: Tijuana is set to bake what is claimed to be the largest ‘Pan de Muerto’ ever made, as part of the city’s celebration activities.
3. **Day of the Dead Parade**: Starting at the Mercado Benito Juárez, the second annual Day of the Dead parade will take to the streets, showcasing vibrant floats and traditional costumes.
4. **Despite System Glitches, Trade Continues**: Despite persistent issues with the customs system in Tijuana causing export delays, businesses are striving to maintain operations efficiently amidst disruptions.