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Sonoran Flea Market Operators Swarm State Congress To Present Demands

With many unable to cross the border to buy used goods in Arizona, Sonoran flea market operators took their discontent to the state congress this week.

Hundreds of Sonorans work at those markets — known as tianguis — and many were on hand Monday morning at the state Congress. Hoping to meet with legislators, they eventually forced their way in. Tianguistas Common Front president Luis Rodriguez said they were able to meet with congressional leaders.

“Each of the 12 points put forward has in principle the function of seeking solutions to the economic and social problems” caused by the pandemic, he said of the group’s demands.

Beyond easing northbound border restrictions, which are enforced by U.S. authorities, they are also asking for access to credit and better health services.

Murphy Woodhouse was a senior field correspondent at KJZZ from 2018 to 2023.