A Sense of Guatemala

1.      Fischer and Hendrickson speak of the importance of identity. Notice how the whole beginning speaks of the two major ethnic groups (Indians and ladinos). How do you think this notion will affect you when you’re in Guatemala? Do you think this notion applies to your life in Hawaii?

While we are in Guatemala I do not think that we will see the racial descrimination that is present in that country. We will be satying in a small town that I imagine will be mostly made up of the poorer working class. We might see a change in the class when we are on our way from the airport to San Lucas, but I cannot be sure. As for this notion in Hawaii I see one major difference ; in Hawaii there seems to be a type of racism towards people from the mainland, however, with the people in Guatemala there is a division between two local races.

2.      The authors articulate specific things that really begin to define who and what Guatemala is. What is your reaction to how they portray Guatemala? Would you have chosen something else? Why or why not?

To the world we see Guatemala as a place of extemely rich culture. Guatemala is defined by their acheological sites, vibrant colors, and rich coffees and other exports. Guatemala is also rich in Maya culture and the ladinos in that area like to take advantage of that which is not always told. The media also bortrays Guatemala as a underdeveloped country that just went through a civil war. If I were to portray Guatemala I would do it with more of a truth aspect and show the world how the Indians are treated.

3.      What is your reaction to the U.S involement in the war? Explain.

I am honestly not that shocked that the U.S. helped the “wrong” side of the battle. It looks like the U.S. was in it for the money and the bussiness so it does not surprise me that they helped kill thousands of innocent people. The U.S. thought that they were helping to stop Communism but they did not get the entire story so they helped who can them the most information and twisted it so it worked in their favor. This was during a time when Communism was feared and the U.S. paniced so they helped what they thought would go to the stop of Communism spreading.

4.      Do some research on Bishop Juan Gerardi. Speak to what you know and understand about who he was and how he formed Guatemala.

 For what I found on Bishop Juan Gerardi he was a great man in Guatemala. He helped the indigenous people with many things especially during the Civil War. He helped with getting the army convicted for their crimes. He was also a human rights activist and worked with the people directly.