Mining and Indigenous Rights: The Struggle for Self-Determination in Guatemala

Pascual Bernabe Velasquez talks about mining and natural resources in Huehuetenango and the response of indigenous communities to mining development in Guatemala. Pascual is second town councilor of San Juan Ixcoy, one of the 27 municipalities in Huehuetenagno declared 'free of mining' by the community through a process of 'consultas' which is a decision making process promoting self-determination and defends the communities' way of life. Since 2005, 41 'consultas' were organized and over 600,000 Guatemalans in the Highlands voted NO to proposed mining in the region, an amazing example of citizen participation and organizing. About the Lecture: Bridget Brehen, NISGUA Program Coordinator will be accompanying Pascual as interpreter