Rigoberta Menchú Tum
(1959-)

Guatemalan Indigenous Rights Activist
1990 UNESCO Prize for Peace Education
1992 Nobel Peace Prize Winner
2002 National Freedom Award

birthdate: January 9
birthplace:
Chimel, Guatemala

QUOTES

Indigenous Rights

We are not myths of the past, ruins in the jungle, or zoos. We are people and we want to be respected, not to be victims of intolerance and racism. 


No More War

We have learned that change cannot come through war. War is not a feasible tool to use in fighting against the oppression we face. War has caused more problems. We cannot embrace that path.


Nonviolence

I think that nonviolence is one way of saying that there are other ways to solve problems, not only through weapons and war. Nonviolence also means the recognition that the person on one side of the trench and the person on the other side of the trench are both human beings, with the same faculties. At some point they have to begin to understand one another.

Other Quotes

Take 10 minutes for reflection, and think about what you want to do with your day.

This world's not going to change unless we're willing to change ourselves.

"I resolutely believe that respect for diversity is a fundamental pillar in the eradication of racism, xenophobia and intolerance. There is no excuse for evading the responsibility of finding the most suitable path toward the elimination of any expression of discrimination against indigenous peoples."

What I treasure most in life is being able to dream. During my most difficult moments and complex situations I have been able to dream of a more beautiful future.

In our culture, peace is not a synonym for war; it's a quality of life. It's the strongest inspiration for happiness among people. Unfortunately weapons, arms, racism, war, oppression of human beings turn peace into a synonym with war. The cause has turned out [to be]... social inequality. That inequality affects all levels of peoples' rights and the environment.

To be a light to others you will need a good dose of the spiritual life. Because as my mother used to say, if you are in a good place, then you can help others; but if you're not well, then go look for somebody who is in a good place who can help you.

It's important to not get caught up to think it's all going to be better someday, tomorrow; it's important to say it's going to be better today. If I can help an elderly person today, that will help me live more fully. Consequently, you then realize that to help someone is not a dream out there but is something that is very do-able.

 

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