 |
| Tecúm Umán, the last leader of the K'iché: statue on main plaza with black cape signifying that the town is in mourning. |
The following video descriptions are
currently in the planning stages. The videos will be available early next year.
El Canto del K’iché
El Canto del
K’iché is a four-part video series that focuses on the lives of children and
their families in the communities of El k’iché or Santa Cruz del K’iché in the
western highlands of Guatemala. Featured
in the videos, either directly or indirectly is organizer Paulina Vus Lopes who
works with the community in an effort to address the various social and
cultural issues that confront them. Some of these are of a violent nature, such
as domestic vioence; others are laden problems rooted in discord and animosity;
and still others are due to a lack of adequate educational programs for
children. The economic base is weak and unstable; thus, a large amount of
difficulties stem from the lack of resources that affect the peoples’ outlook
on life, their daily negotiations with the insurmountable psychological
turmoil, and their dimming view of the future and hope for their children.
Following are
brief summary descriptions of the proposed videos.
When Children Speak
With Paulina’s
leadership, the community works together with limited resources to implement a
two-week school, La escuelita: Despierta Conciencia, for 8 to 10
year-olds. Their curriculum is tailor-made to meet the needs of 60 children and
their families, focusing on goals of cohesiveness in the community, and working
toward solidifying their value system, and embracing the spirituality of their
Mayan ancestors.
Women’s Visions
The wisdom,
talent, and visions of women are highlighted in this video. The community
centers around those they respect and admire, and conversely, women who are
active contributors in their field give their heart and spirit to advance the
social and spiritual causes of the community. Thus, the circle of good faith,
respect, and giving is repeatedly generated and practiced by the
womenfolk.
The Family That Stays Together
In this video,
families are featured in an effort to educate the audience about the families’
struggles and difficulties, as well as their triumphs and advances. The historical context and economic reality
put the families to the ultimate test, and their challenges are immense and
obstinate. But their vision remains steady and clearly anchored on the horizon,
and their success depends to a great extent on family unity.
The Healing Arts
The use of medicinal herbs
and other plants to heal and promote a healthy body and mind are keys to a
good, productive life according to Paulina Yus Lopes, the spiritual healer and
community organizer. This video highlights her work and philosophy, and how her
roles as feminist and community worker have energized her own spiritual well
being and healing process.
No comments:
Post a Comment