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Monday, June 29, 2009

After breakfast we went to UPAVIM to tour their facility and hear from the directors of the various programs. It is located in a former squatter´s settlement called Esperanza, which means hope. It is located in Guatemala City. It is a neighborhood filled with violence and gangs. UPAVIM was founded by women in the neighborhood who overcame great adversity to bring it into being. They had a dream to start a daycare for women that had to go out and work to support their families. UPAVIM wanted to own the land they were squatting on so they went to the government to plead their case and try to obtain a title to the land. They explained that they wanted to start a cooperative to help the women and children in their neighborhood. The women were told that if they could get 500 signatures, they could have the land. They went from door to door asking for signatures in their neighborhood. Many of the men and women would not sign the petition. They told the women to go back to their homes and take care of their husbands and children. They told them they would never succeed. However, the women were not be discouraged and continued until they got 500 signatures.
UPAVIM has developed into a wonderful place for families in the neighborhood. They have a daycare with teachers trained in the Montessori Method, a primary school, clinic, pharmacy, bakery, craft-making area and store.

UPAVIM  Isabel weaving

We went to Zone 1 to have lunch at Chikach. We had a private room to ourselves overlooking the courtyard. We were served a heavenly meal that was vegetarian and completely organic. All agreed that it was the best meal that we had eaten out for the entire trip. Carriet is the director and told us about their restaurant, store and farms. They are working to bring their organic products to local markets in throughout Guatemala.

We took a walk to the palace and the cathedral. Both buildings were large and extravagent. This was in sharp contrast to all the other places we visited. We learned about the civil war and saw the memorial to those disappeared, tortured, and killed. It was a somber thing to see so many columns inscribed on all sides with the names of the victims.

Later in the evening, we watched Precarious Peace, which taught us more about the war, the parties involved, and the actions of the United States government. As I walk the streets, I wonder how the people in Guatemala view me and if they lay some of the blame for that at my feet. I certainly couldn´t blame them for feeling some resentment towards Americans. The movie sparked some intense conversation and we stayed up past Diane´s bedtime. I recommend watching it, if you´re interested in learning about the war and Guatemala´s long road to peace.

Some days are easier than others and tonight was a challenge for me. The truth isn´t always easy.

This journal was shared by Monica Lyon.