The Time Zack De La Rocha Visited Chiapas To Stand With The Zapatistas

March 21, 2025

Zack de la Rocha, the fierce frontman of the band Rage Against the Machine, stood quietly at the edge of a lush green valley in Chiapas, Mexico. It was 1996, and he had traveled thousands of miles to make a stand with the Zapatistas, a group fighting for the rights of indigenous peoples. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the sounds of nature, but there was another sound that filled Zack’s heart—the calls for justice from the people around him. He felt a powerful sense of purpose, knowing that he was not just a musician, but a voice for those who had been silenced for too long.

As he walked through the villages, Zack saw men, women, and children who had faced incredible hardships. Their homes were humble, and their lives were filled with struggle, but their spirits were unyielding. The Zapatistas, led by Subcomandante Marcos, were not just fighting for land; they were battling for dignity and respect. Zack felt a deep connection to their cause. He understood that music had the power to inspire change, and he was determined to use his platform to amplify their cries for justice. He sat with the people by the fire at night, listening to their stories, their hopes, and their dreams, and he knew he had to bring their message back to the world.

The experience in Chiapas ignited a fire within Zack. Back in the United States, he poured his passion into his music. Rage Against the Machine’s songs became even more politically charged, addressing issues of oppression, inequality, and human rights. It was as if the spirit of the Zapatistas had found its way into his lyrics, flowing with a raw energy that resonated with his fans. The band organized benefit concerts and raised awareness about the struggles of indigenous people, using their music as a vehicle for change and solidarity. Through song, Zack channeled the strength he had witnessed in Chiapas, reminding everyone that the fight for justice never truly ends.

As he performed on stages around the world, Zack carried the spirit of Chiapas with him. He often spoke about the Zapatista movement in interviews, emphasizing the importance of standing alongside those who are marginalized. The seeds of inspiration he found during his visit transformed his life, guiding him not only as an artist but also as an activist. He became a symbol of resilience for many young people, proving that anyone could make a difference, no matter how daunting the fight seemed.

Years later, when Zack looked back on his journey to Chiapas, he realized it was more than just a visit; it was a turning point. He had witnessed courage and determination in the face of adversity, and it filled him with hope. The strength of the Zapatistas fueled his passion for music and activism, weaving a bond that would last a lifetime. In the end, Zack de la Rocha became more than just a musician; he became a beacon of light, reminding the world that unity, compassion, and the power of the human spirit could bring about real change. His heart resonated with the rhythms of Chiapas, and through his music, he continued to inspire others to stand up for what is right.