Unions and other groups have called for the strikes as a strategy for advancing democracy and social justice in Chile. The strikes are expected to be peaceful but may cause extensive disruption to transportation, services and city centers.

Our resident director in Valparaiso, Viviana Vasquez, has recommended that students stay home on August 24 and 25, as the demonstrations will likely attract very large crowds and make travel to classes extremely difficult. Our resident director in Santiago, Isabel Yevenes, is asking students to meet on Wednesday for the IFSA-Butler program course in history. After class on Wednesday, students will have the chance to discuss the strikes further with Isabel, who will also give instructions and advice for the days of the strikes.

Our resident staff have reminded students to avoid demonstrations and protests, especially as participation by foreign nationals in Chile can result in arrest and deportation.