I am deeply gladdened that 1993 has been delcared the International Year of Indigenous Peoples by the United Nations. It is the first year we have had in five hundred years. This is thanks to the struggle of many untitled, unnamed indigenous brothers who, without understanding international law, patiently walked the corridors asking for some time. Thanks to them this international year has been declared.
Rigoberta MenchuIn Guatemala, the gap between rich and poor must be eliminated, or we will continue to be the example of conflict in America.
Rigoberta MenchuI would get up in the morning and I would say, "How am I going to bother them today?"
Rigoberta MenchuWe have learned that change cannot come through war. War is not a feasible tool to use in fighting against the oppression we face. War has caused more problems. We cannot embrace that path.
Rigoberta MenchuThe problem in Guatemala is that there is no solution to the issue of human rights. The problem is militarization, it is the injust distribution of wealth. It is intolerance of the indigenous, it is discrimination and marginalization.
Rigoberta Menchu