One of the great challenges facing the mayan villagers we serve is a lack of land. Many villages are actually illegal settlements on land owned by others or protected nature preserves. Because of this casual observers often blame the villagers for the destruction of the forests. The truth is much more complicated, however. Mayan villagers have been forced off of land and out of their native areas for decades, and centuries – for variety of reasons. They live in illegal settlements often because they have no other choice.

Liza Grandia has written a book on the plight of the Q’eqchi’ people and their search for land to call their own. Those that are interested in the history of Guatemala’s indigenous, the Q’eqchi’, and the reasons for their living conditions are encouraged to read her book.

Here is a link to her book, “Enclosed”: