Contacto Ancestral

Magdalena Cholotillo discusses the importance of ancestral health practices and the role of traditional midwives in Guatemala. She argues that the institutional health system often discriminates against midwives and fails to recognize their contributions to community health. Cholotillo outlines her experiences advocating for the rights of midwives and the need for the government to respect ancestral practices. She emphasizes the significance of cultural relevance in healthcare and the necessity for a collaborative approach between traditional and institutional health systems.

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Nora Kech discusses the ongoing struggle at the University of San Carlos in Guatemala, highlighting issues of illegal rectorial usurpation and the impact on student rights. Kech states that Walter Mazariegos has usurped the rectorate through legal manipulations, leading to a lack of democratic processes in university governance. Petrona Rosario Castro describes the disappointment of indigenous communities regarding the government's inaction and the repression faced by students. Both speakers emphasize the importance of solidarity among students and communities in the fight for educational access and democratic rights in Guatemala.

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Cira discusses the impact of the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, stating that the devastation has left over 2,500 dead and many displaced. She argues that the response from popular organizations and communal structures has been crucial in providing aid and support to affected communities. Cira emphasizes the historical context of the Bolivarian Revolution and the importance of grassroots organization in addressing the current crisis. She also highlights the challenges posed by U.S. sanctions and the need for solidarity among Latin American nations.

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Patricia Foxen discusses her book 'In Search of Providence, Transnational Mayan Identities', detailing her research on K'iche' migrants in Providence, Rhode Island, and the impact of historical violence and migration on their community. Foxen explains the formation of migration networks and the challenges faced by the K'iche' community, including rising anti-immigrant sentiment and economic difficulties. Quetzal Castañeda introduces his book 'Ethnographic Archaeology, Reflections on Stakeholders in Archaeological Practices', emphasizing the importance of integrating ethnography with archaeology to empower contemporary communities connected to historical sites. He highlights the need for a more inclusive understanding of heritage and identity.

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Carmen Reina describes the controversial tenure of Consuelo Porras as Guatemala's Attorney General, highlighting her role in the criminalization of social leaders and the protection of corrupt officials. Reina explains the implications of Porras's actions on the justice system, including the persecution of human rights defenders and the manipulation of election outcomes. She discusses the new Attorney General, Gabriel García Luna, and the hope for reform within the Ministry of Public Affairs. Reina also addresses the challenges faced by the judiciary and the ongoing struggle for justice in cases of genocide and violence against women.

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The broadcast discusses the anniversary of the Pansos massacre, which occurred on May 29, 1978, impacting the K'ech'i Maya community in Guatemala. Olivia Chuj, a representative from the Committee of Peasant Unity, describes the events leading to the massacre, including the community's demands for land and the violent response from local authorities and soldiers. Chuj emphasizes the ongoing struggles faced by the community, including the impact of multinational corporations on their land and health. The broadcast also features testimonies from survivors, highlighting the importance of remembering this historical event.

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