Rigoberta Menchu Tum was born
Into poverty in Guatemala, Indian.
From having to work in the fields as a child,
She moved to Mexico when the governing classes tried
And confiscated Indian lands. “Massacres
Were normal.” The Indians fled to fight. Rancour
Ruled, her family murdered intentionally –
The “blind brutalization of the whole society.”*
From Mexico to Europe she carried her human rights work,
Spreading truth and calls for the rights of indigenous peoples.
She published her life story, and refused to shirk
Her mission: to reconcile Guatemala with human rights principles.
She called the Prize a sign of hope, a tribute – to impact
Their stability, future and democracy, with mutual respect.**
June Edvenson 