Defensoria Indigena Tzolojya (Indigenous Defence Tzolojya) was created froto defend the rights of indigenous people after discrimination, repression, and exclusion in Solola mounted in the 1980s, during Guatemala’s 36-year civil war. On the day it was founded, 12 October 1988, the Defensoria organised its first official defence against the accusation and murder of indigenous religious leaders and community leaders in Solola. After this defence, Defensoria Indigena Tzolojya realised the power of speaking out, defending indigenous rights and uniting indigenous leaders.
In their training, leadership and conflict resolution, the Defensoria Indigena Tzolojya promotes community values of respect and concern for others. The organisation leverages indigenous communities and values by empowering community leaders to be more proactive in promoting equality and justice throughout Solola, particularly by defending the rights of their own communities.
The Defensoria Indigena Tzolojya sponsors a variety of events that promote understanding and peace within Solola. It has sponsored public debates, peaceful rallies, dialogue and negotiations between community leaders and public speakers, all relating to the promotion of equality and justice. It also sponsors training and workshops on a variety of topics, including leadership training, violence prevention, conflict resolution, mediation tactics, gender equality, the importance of community participation and indigenous and community rights.
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