Clowns protest school performance ban
Bolivia artists rally over lost school income
Dozens of clowns in colorful costumes and makeup protested in La Paz after a government resolution barred extracurricular performances during the school day, a move performers say threatens a key source of income. The Education Ministry’s rule requires schools to complete 200 mandatory class days each year and prohibits special activities during instructional hours, effectively restricting clowns, folkloric artists, photographers and other entertainers from longstanding school engagements.
Protesters marched through downtown to the Education Ministry, chanting and holding signs such as “They steal smiles; they steal jobs.” The demonstration drew solidarity from artisans who make and rent traditional costumes and photographers who rely on school events for work. Performers argue their appearances contribute culturally and educationally to students’ experiences and provide vital livelihoods for many in the informal arts sector.
The Education Ministry acknowledged the concerns and said they would be considered for next year but reiterated that its priority is guaranteeing children’s right to education and meeting mandatory instructional days. Some teachers and parents voiced mixed views, with supporters of the measure citing a need to preserve classroom time and critics warning of economic harm and loss of cultural programming.
The dispute highlights tensions between regulatory efforts to safeguard instructional time and the preservation of cultural and income-generating activities tied to schools. Negotiations and stakeholder consultations were signaled as possible next steps as performers press for alternatives that would allow school visits without compromising required class time.
