Michelle writes:
I love to hear the stories of the people. The current story of this community is the power of the people in claiming their village from the extortionists. This January (2011), I was in communication with Kathy about visiting her in Santiago Ixcan in February. She was unsure about the timing, as people in this village were receiving phone calls with death threats unless they would pay sums of money. The recipients of these calls were the large cardamom farmers who have more money.
I love to hear the stories of the people. The current story of this community is the power of the people in claiming their village from the extortionists. This January (2011), I was in communication with Kathy about visiting her in Santiago Ixcan in February. She was unsure about the timing, as people in this village were receiving phone calls with death threats unless they would pay sums of money. The recipients of these calls were the large cardamom farmers who have more money.
Once again, the community banded together, and the men of the village were organized to form a civil patrol. Those who had been threatened decided to invest the money into weapons rather than give to the extortionists. Guns were bought, the community mobilized, and a 9 p.m. curfew was put in place. Five men who had once been soldiers for the Guatemalan army were put in charge of training and strategy. All men between the ages of 18 and 50 were enlisted. Each evening, 15 to 20 men gather in the community center at 9 p.m. and prepare for the night watch until 4 a.m.. They divide into two bands and walk the roads of the village. Since the patrol, the phone calls have stopped.
The patrol and curfew has impacted the local drinkers as well. The 9 p.m. curfew and isn’t often regarded by a drunk. These unruly men are then picked up by the patrol and put in the local jail for the night, in addition to being fined. These monies are used to finance more armaments and a stronger patrol. The community has claimed their town. The citizens of Santiago Ixcan feel safe again. Other area communities are now looking to Santiago Ixcan as a model for combating the ever-increasing criminal activity common to Guatemala and the region.
Because of the recent community patrol, I am able to visit this village. My timing to only arrive at the end of March made it possible. Once again, I know I am being guided and protected. Thank you for the prayers and love you send me. In my heart you are with me.
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