In Lima, Peru, a ballet school led by former National Ballet of Peru dancer Maria del Carmen Silva offers transformative opportunities for young girls from impoverished backgrounds. Despite economic challenges, Maria provides free ballet classes, acting as a mentor and second mother to her students. The school serves as a refuge from the crime-ridden slums, offering hope and joy through dance.

The Ramirez family in Ecatepec de Morelos, Mexico, has transformed a derelict space under a bridge into a boxing gym to keep young people off the streets and away from crime. Led by Miguel Ramirez, the gym offers a sanctuary and instills discipline through boxing. Miguel, a former boxer, and his family, including his daughter Fernanda and grandson Josafat, are dedicated to positively impacting their community. The gym provides free training to those in need and has produced several successful boxers. The family's efforts have significantly influenced the local youth, steering them towards healthier lifestyles and away from negative influences.

David González, a man from Ecatepec, juggles multiple roles, including playing Santa Claus during the Christmas season. Despite having a stable job, he continues this seasonal role out of passion and a sense of calling. The article explores the challenges and intricacies of being a mall Santa, including the high standards set by commercial centers and the emotional labor involved. It also delves into the commercialization of Christmas and the historical and cultural significance of Santa Claus in Mexico and beyond. Various brands and organizations involved in the Christmas industry are mentioned, highlighting the commercial and cultural impact of the holiday season.

The article recounts the complex and murky investigation surrounding the assassination of José Francisco Ruiz Massieu, a prominent Mexican politician and secretary general of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), in 1994. The narrative weaves through the involvement of Francisca Zetina, known as 'La Paca,' who was a witch with political connections and claimed to have information about the murder. The case is filled with political betrayals, a convoluted investigation led by officials like Pablo Chapa Bezanilla, and the eventual imprisonment and release of Raúl Salinas de Gortari, the brother of former President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, who was initially accused of being the intellectual author of the murder. The story also touches on the disappearance of Manuel Muñoz Rocha, another politician implicated in the case. The article highlights the corruption and power struggles within the PRI and the Mexican government, leading to a sensational trial that captivated the nation.

Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to eliminate the constitutional right to abortion, Mexican activists, particularly from the group Las Libres, have seen a surge in requests for abortion pills from the United States. Verónica Cruz, founder of Las Libres, reports a significant increase in calls, with the organization now providing abortion drugs to women in the U.S. through a network of volunteers. Despite legal risks, activists continue their efforts, while legal experts warn of potential criminal charges under restrictive state laws. The article highlights the cross-border activism and the challenges posed by conflicting state and federal regulations.

Dedicated conservationists in Mexico's Gulf of California are working to protect the vaquita porpoise, the world's most endangered marine mammal. The Sea Shepherd organization, through its 'Operation Milagro' campaign, has significantly reduced illegal fishing activities by removing thousands of fishing nets. Despite facing violent resistance from poachers, their efforts have led to a 90% reduction in illegal fishing in the Vaquita Refuge area. The campaign has been crucial in preventing the extinction of the vaquita and raising awareness about the endangered totoaba fish.

The article explores the severe impact of the fentanyl crisis in Mexico, particularly in Tijuana, where a shortage of metadona has led to increased addiction and overdose deaths. It highlights the lack of coordination between health authorities and the government, leading to a dangerous underreporting of fentanyl-related deaths. The story features testimonies from healthcare professionals, affected individuals, and experts, criticizing the government's response and emphasizing the urgent need for better drug policies and support systems.

The article explores the severe impact of fentanyl on Mexico, particularly in Tijuana, where a shortage of metadona has led to increased addiction and overdose deaths. It highlights the struggles of healthcare providers like Dr. José Curiel, who faced a crisis when the government halted metadona supplies. The piece criticizes the Mexican government's inadequate response and underreporting of overdose deaths, contrasting it with the more proactive measures in the United States. Organizations like Prevencasa are praised for their harm reduction efforts, while the DEA's investigation into drug trafficking is noted. The article underscores the urgent need for better coordination and public health policies to address the growing fentanyl crisis.

The article explores the exhibition 'Juegos de niñxs, 1999–2022' by artist Francis Alÿs at the Museo Universitario Arte Contemporáneo (MUAC). It delves into the concept of children's play as a serious and immersive activity, drawing parallels with Maria Montessori's educational methods and Mihály Csíkszentmihályi's concept of 'flow.' The exhibition features over thirty videos of children playing in various global locations, highlighting the universal nature of play despite differing geopolitical contexts. The article also touches on the collaborative process behind the videos and the deeper artistic implications of Alÿs's work.

Tabasco, a region rich in oil reserves, faces severe environmental and social challenges due to the activities of Pemex, the state-owned oil company. The article highlights the devastating impact of climate change and pollution on local communities, with rising sea levels and coastal erosion threatening to submerge large parts of the region by 2050. Despite significant oil revenues, the local population suffers from health issues, economic instability, and environmental degradation. The narrative underscores the urgent need for sustainable alternatives and greater corporate accountability.