Thousands of indigenous Tzotzils and Tzeltals gathered this Sunday in the municipality of Chenalhó to demand justice and an end to violence in their communities. The march took place three months after the murder of the priest Marcelo Pérez, a defender of human rights and peace in the region.
“We seek security for our people and throughout Chiapas.”
— Said Enrique Díaz Sánchez, parish priest of the San Pedro church.
The violence that affects the communities
The increase in conflicts in Chiapas has caused forced displacements, destruction of homes and an atmosphere of insecurity in rural areas. During the demonstration, participants pointed out that many people have been forced to leave their homes and that a safe return is necessary for those who have been displaced.
“We want our communities to live in peace, without fear and with security guarantees.”
— Added the parish priest.
Justice pending for Father Marcelo Pérez
Father Marcelo Pérez was murdered on October 20 in San Cristóbal de las Casas. Although three months have passed since the crime, protesters say there has been no significant progress in the search for justice.
The priest’s life was dedicated to defending the rights of indigenous peoples, and his murder left a deep mark on the communities that seek to continue his legacy of peace and dignity.
Messages of hope and demand
During the march, participants carried banners with phrases such as “Peace for Chiapas,” “Justice for Father Marcelo” and “Stop forced displacement.” The mobilization concluded with a rally in front of the Chenalhó church, where community leaders expressed their outrage at the government’s lack of responses to the problems they face.
“We are fighting for our rights, facing discrimination and the violence that reaches our people.”
— Elena Vázquez, a Tzotzil indigenous woman, shared the pain and concern of her community.
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Chiapas faces a security crisis
The situation in Chiapas has deteriorated due to the presence of armed groups and illegal activities that affect the stability of the region. The protesters emphasized that these problems have generated a climate of tension and mistrust that impedes the development of their communities.
They also pointed out that the projects promoted by previous governments, instead of benefiting them, have affected their natural resources and increased the difficulties for indigenous peoples.
Communities that do not give up
The organizers of the march emphasized that this mobilization is part of an ongoing effort to recover peace and justice in Chiapas. Through collective actions and dialogue, they seek to achieve a significant change that guarantees the well-being of their communities.
“We will continue to raise our voices until our demands are heard. We do not want more violence or abandonment.”
— A representative of the indigenous peoples concluded at the end of the demonstration.
Source: elimparcial
