Despite a light rain, 200 people marched against CAFTA, the Central American Free Trade Agreement, July 26th 2003 in New Orleans. The march went from Congo Square on N. Rampart St. to Lafayette Park in the Central Business District. A contingent of
Louisiana Shrimpers joined the march, protesting the impact CAFTA will have on their industry. In the past few years 40% of Louisiana’s shrimping industry has gone out of business, and many are concerned that CAFTA will allow cheaper shrimp from Central America to flood the market. [
video of march ]
On July 29th, protesters met the Gallier Hall Reception with a mock welcome featuring signs welcoming the CAFTA delegates and encouraging them in jest to, "Keep the Talks Secret". [ 
photos: 1 | 2 ]
The CAFTA negotiations return to the United States this October 20-24 in Houston, Texas and protests and educational events are already being planned. [ 
more info ]
