The San Lázaro Cultural Space Embraces a New Chapter

In Mexico City's legislative center, a new force for cultural engagement has emerged under the stewardship of Elías Robles Andrade. Recently appointed as Director of the San Lázaro Cultural Space (ECSL), Robles brings an academic pedigree and an extensive legislative background that position him uniquely to spearhead this ambitious initiative.

Robles, a lawyer and political scientist trained at the University of Guadalajara, holds a Master's in Human Rights and Democracy. Reflecting on his journey, he recounts, “My first contact with Congress was in the Senate as Technical Secretary in the Jurisdictional Commission. I later specialized in legislative processes and parliamentary law.” His career has woven through Mexico’s legislative fabric, from advising in the Administration Committee of the Chamber of Deputies to leading the Legislative Museum, Sentimientos de la Nación, for nearly a decade.

This deep-rooted experience provides a solid foundation for his latest endeavor: directing the ECSL, an initiative born in 2019. Yet, the Cultural Space faces challenges—not least its youth and lack of formal structure. Robles remains undeterred, envisioning a future where ECSL becomes a cornerstone of civic engagement and cultural dissemination.

The ECSL was conceived as a multidisciplinary platform, drawing on efforts from the General Secretariat, the Congressional Library, the Legislative Museum, and various study centers. Its inception was modest but impactful: before the pandemic disrupted global norms, ECSL had already hosted over 400 events encompassing art, history, philosophy, and public discourse. When COVID-19 forced the world into digital spaces, ECSL adapted seamlessly, organizing virtual panels, seminars, and colloquia that attracted more than 400,000 views.

Robles points to the Library of Congress in Washington—an institution globally renowned for its vast collections and commitment to cultural preservation—as a source of inspiration. “We have a wonderful library here, including the one in Tacuba, with an impressive collection,” he notes, emphasizing the potential to create a similar model of cultural influence and public education.

The ECSL's next phase hinges on bolstering its institutional framework. “Building the second floor of ECSL is betting on institutionality,” Robles explains. The plan involves integrating related entities like the Museum and Library under a unified management structure. This strategic move aims to streamline resources and amplify the impact of ECSL’s initiatives.

Beyond structural changes, Robles envisions the ECSL as a dynamic forum for intellectual exchange and public dialogue. “The challenge is to be an open window for citizens to discuss ideas and study,” he asserts. The Space hosts high-caliber seminars, forums, and courses across a spectrum of disciplines, with a particular emphasis on historical and philosophical studies. This focus aligns with Robles' broader goal: fostering a well-informed citizenry equipped to engage thoughtfully with democratic institutions.

The ECSL’s mission transcends the walls of Congress, seeking to bridge the gap between legislative processes and public understanding. Robles views cultural programming as a vehicle for civic education, promoting values of democracy, transparency, and active citizenship. Events and exhibitions serve not merely as cultural showcases but as tools for demystifying parliamentary procedures and engaging the public in Mexico’s democratic journey.

Robles’ tenure at the Legislative Museum offers a glimpse into his approach: during his nine-year leadership, he spearheaded a comprehensive remodeling project that transformed the museum into an interactive, dynamic space. “The museography was already 20 years old,” he recalls, “and it had to be seen as an ideal place for the construction of citizenship.” The revamped museum became a living, breathing institution—responsive to contemporary issues and accessible to the broader public.

He aims to replicate this model at ECSL, ensuring it remains adaptable and relevant. “We want a space that responds to what we want to express to citizens,” he emphasizes. That expression encompasses not only legislative and parliamentary processes but also the broader ideals of civic engagement and cultural enrichment.

Formalizing Cultural Engagement

At the core of this new phase lies a commitment to institutionalization. “There are many requests for events and activities,” Robles explains. “It’s essential to formalize and structure these initiatives to ensure they are sustainable and impactful.” He envisions a future where the ECSL operates with clear internal regulations and a defined organizational framework, aligned with constitutional mandates.

The constitutional grounding is crucial. Article 1 of the Mexican Constitution obliges all levels of government to recognize, respect, and promote human rights. Cultural rights, as part of the broader spectrum of economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR), are no exception. “It’s important to relate our cultural initiatives to these legal obligations,” Robles emphasizes. This means not only celebrating Mexico’s rich cultural heritage but also ensuring that cultural activities serve as vehicles for promoting human rights and civic engagement.

The ECSL’s mission is twofold: to foster an understanding of legislative processes and to promote broader civic and cultural engagement. Robles sees these goals as intertwined. “We simultaneously spread legislative culture and parliamentary culture while promoting cultural rights for all citizens,” he explains. This dual focus underscores the importance of citizen contact and participation. Cultural initiatives are not just about entertainment or education—they are about empowering citizens to engage with democratic institutions.

To achieve this, Robles plans to align the ECSL’s activities with key civic and human rights anniversaries. “We will have a specific agenda that focuses on national and civic commemorations, as well as human rights milestones,” he says. This structured approach aims to create a cohesive narrative that reinforces democratic values and civic responsibility.

One of Robles’ central themes is the construction of citizenship. He draws on Article 133 of the Constitution, which states that the supreme law of the land includes not only the Magna Carta but also international treaties ratified by the Senate. This legal framework provides a robust foundation for promoting democratic culture and human rights.

“Civic culture, democratic culture, parliamentary culture—these are the pillars of citizenship,” Robles asserts. By aligning cultural initiatives with constitutional mandates, the ECSL aims to create a more engaged and informed citizenry. This involves more than just hosting events or exhibitions; it requires a strategic, long-term commitment to civic education and public engagement.

For Robles, the ultimate measure of success is the ECSL’s impact on the surrounding community. He invokes the legacy of Ramírez Vázquez, the architect behind the San Lázaro project, who envisioned a space that would serve the broader public. “Whatever we do in this area has to impact the entire community,” Robles insists. This is not just a cultural mission; it is a historical task that must be fulfilled.

Ensuring access to cultural and civic resources is a key part of this vision. “There must be a dynamic of cultural vitality,” Robles explains. “But our objectives must also be consistent with the broader goal of community engagement.” This means creating programs and initiatives that are not only accessible but also relevant to the needs and interests of the local population.

A Broader Vision of Culture

At the heart of Robles’ vision are two core dimensions of culture. The first is rooted in history, philosophy, and anthropology—an institutional framework that fosters social coexistence, survival, and identity. “Culture is an apparatus,” Robles explains. “It’s a series of institutions designed to recreate the social conditions necessary for coexistence and identity formation.” This dimension emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural heritage and philosophical underpinnings as tools for building a more cohesive society.

The second axis focuses on the promotion of fine arts and other aesthetic expressions. Robles underscores the importance of cultivating and refining aesthetic taste. “Art is not just about appreciation; it’s about engagement,” he asserts. This dual approach ensures that the ECSL serves both as a repository of cultural knowledge and a dynamic space for artistic innovation.

Robles’ concept of culture extends beyond the traditional boundaries of fine arts. He advocates for the inclusion of physical culture and sport as a third axis of engagement. “Physical culture is fundamental,” he emphasizes. “There are people who may not connect with certain artistic or cultural manifestations, but they do identify with physical culture and sports.” This broader definition aims to make the ECSL more inclusive, reaching diverse audiences, including individuals with disabilities.

The upcoming International Dance Day exemplifies this inclusive approach. Robles plans to invite the Ballet of the Disabled, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility and representation. “The Space cannot be biased,” he insists. “The broader our notion of culture, the more we can reach larger sectors of the population.” This inclusive philosophy underscores a broader strategy: to make culture a unifying force that transcends social and physical barriers.

One of the challenges Robles faces is the perception that politicians are indifferent to culture. He acknowledges the skepticism but remains optimistic. “There is a stigma that persists—that culture isn’t given the importance it deserves,” he says. This skepticism is often fueled by concerns about cost and value. High-level cultural events are celebrated but also criticized for their expense. Navigating these contradictions requires what Robles describes as “tightrope walking.”

Yet, his experience suggests a different reality. “I have had extensive contact with political actors, and I haven’t encountered resistance,” he observes. “They all appreciate artistic and cultural manifestations, including high culture.” The key, he believes, is transparency and institutional integrity. Cultural initiatives must be grounded in constitutional principles, not personal ambitions. “What we are doing is based on the citizens’ right to cultural access. It’s not a whim. It’s about fulfilling the mandates of the first and fourth constitutional articles.”

For Robles, the institutionalization of the ECSL is not just an administrative necessity; it’s a moral imperative. “It’s crucial that people understand there is a solid foundation behind what we’re doing,” he asserts. “We are not acting irresponsibly or promoting personal projects. We are complying with constitutional obligations.” This institutional approach is designed to build trust and ensure that cultural initiatives are perceived as legitimate and essential.

Robles’ decade-long experience in cultural institutions, including his tenure at the Legislative Museum, reinforces his confidence in the commitment of legislators to cultural promotion. “Without exception, I have seen that deputies are highly sensitive to cultural issues,” he says. This sensitivity, he believes, is a critical asset in advancing the ECSL’s mission.

Elías Robles Andrade’s vision for the San Lázaro Cultural Space is both ambitious and inclusive. By redefining culture to include historical, artistic, and physical dimensions, he aims to create a platform that fosters social cohesion, civic engagement, and cultural appreciation. His approach challenges traditional boundaries and seeks to build an institution that is transparent, accessible, and aligned with constitutional principles.

In a time of political and social polarization, the ECSL offers a model for how cultural institutions can bridge divides and foster a deeper sense of community. For Robles, the ultimate goal is clear: “Culture is not just an expression of identity. It’s a foundation for citizenship, democracy, and human rights. And that’s a historical task we must fulfill.”