In preparation for my upcoming trip to Guatemala, I have been reading the biography of Rigoberta Menchu. As an indigenous woman in Guatemala, Rigoberta campaigned for the rights of Indian peasants and spoke out against the internal colonialism taking place in Latin America. We know that the United States has exploited and oppressed the Latino people, but we often forget that there is domestic oppression, segregation and even slavery present in countries like Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Mexcio. Indigenous populations must choose between acculturation and isolation (the latter of which may lead to extinction due to unjust land seizure and violence). Here's the link to a brief bio.
3 comments:
I'm so happy you are back blogging! We will be up there August 13 or 14. When are you going on this trip?
In preparation for my trip to Guatemala I am memorizing formulas for exchanging $ for quetzals and figuring out how to get on the right bus... maybe I should get this book for the plane ride : )
Thanks for your thoughtful comments on leadership on the riseupindia blog. In the early 90's I spent two months in Guatemala. I read "I,Rigoberta Menchu". Although the abuses by the Guatemalan govt were excessive, generally and unfortunately, pretty much everywhere indigenous peoples get a raw deal. I understand things have improved since we were there (I hope).
Cheers & can't wait for the report
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