Workers at the National Cinematheque of Mexico are considering a work stoppage at their locations in Las Artes, Chapultepec, and Mexico City. They cite inadequate labor conditions, legal uncertainty, and overall precarious employment as primary issues. Approximately 70% of the 340 staff members are reportedly employed under a Professional Services scheme, lacking permanent contracts, social security, and access to benefits required by the Federal Labor Law.

The workers' grievances are compounded by the fact that in January 2026, only a one-month extension of contracts was signed, leading to concerns about the legality of their employment beyond that period. They highlighted that there are no active legal documents to secure their employment for February and the upcoming months, which has fueled their frustration and desire for a resolution to their employment status.

The potential strike reflects broader issues in the Mexican labor market regarding job security and the treatment of workers in cultural institutions. As discussions continue, the workers are emphasizing the importance of securing not just their jobs but also better working conditions that comply with labor laws, aiming to raise awareness about the precarious state of employment in the national cultural sector.