The violence surrounding the Guatemalan elections has been horrific. Over fifty people (although some report as many as seventy) have been murdered in election related violence. By far the most violent campaign in Guatemalan history, candidates and their families have been the targets. The election is in two days (Sunday); let's hope that will end this bloody political campaign.

Just two days ago, two candidates from Rigoberta Menchu’s party were shot dead. These two young victims,... more

Well, it was an anti-climatic day in the Guatemalan congress on May 2nd. I reported on May 1st about two adoption proposals that were to be addressed: the Hague and the Ortega Law. In conclusion, a proposal that would reinstate the Hague Convention was not read, and the Ortega Law was not approved. According to Susana Luarca at ADA, it will be August before either proposal... more

If you have yet to read, “I, Rigoberta Menchu,” this would be an excellent time, since the author is running for president of Guatemala in the upcoming September 2007 elections. This is a highly engaging book documenting the atrocities of the Civil War in Guatemala, as well as a compelling, and often tragic personal history.

Born January 9th, 1959 in Guatemala, Rigoberta is of the Quiche-Maya ethnic group. She grew up a peasant who later went on to become a Nobel Laureate, and a heroine and success story to the indigenous people... more