Mayan activists have expressed their disappointment over the inability to participate in the upcoming forum for the National Development Plan (PND) on indigenous matters due to financial constraints. The forum, scheduled for January 19 in Michoacán, will be a one-day event, making it difficult for many to attend.
Hermelindo Be Cituk, founder of the Plural Indigenous National Assembly for Autonomy (Anipa) in Quintana Roo, criticized the decision to hold a single forum, stating that it prevents the indigenous population from participating. He emphasized that the lack of economic resources makes it impossible for Mayans to travel from Quintana Roo to Michoacán.
Six years ago, 25 forums were organized for the PND, including one in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. However, this time, the Federal Government plans to hold only 50 forums nationwide, with just one focused on tourism in Quintana Roo, scheduled for next Tuesday in Cancun.
Luis Nah, a Mayan priest, also criticized the Federal Government’s approach, highlighting the high costs of air transportation, food, and lodging required to attend the forum. He questioned how the government expects indigenous people to participate under such conditions.
The activists call for more inclusive and accessible forums to ensure that the voices of the indigenous population are heard in the formation of the National Development Plan.
Source: Sipse
