The Aborigine and Ladino conflict

When we think of a Latin American nation such as Guatemala, we rarely think of the indigenous people before the settlement of the Spanish conquistadors. Recently I read an article in BBC News that highlighted the discrimination of the indigenous Mayan aborigines by the Ladinos of European descent. Here's the link:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4810566.stm

I previously knew that there was a cultural divide between the aboriginal Mayans and Ladinos. However, I did not know that there was serious racial discrimination. The United Nations development program has put pressure on the country to overcome "historically racist attitudes." The discrimination can be seen in that 50% of the population is Mayan, in which nearly all live in poverty. In fact the Ladino population makes more than twice that of the Mayans.

The discrimination can also be witnessed at the governmental level. The report from the United Nations mentioned the poor transportation infrastructure to parts of the country mostly populated by the indigenous Mayans. Also, five Guatemalan politicians were found guilty of racial discrimination against indigenous activist, Rigoberta Menchu.

It is unfortunate to see such blatant discrimination in a country. But for many second and third world countries, there is harsh racism between the majority and minority. It takes time, patience, and tolerance for people to advance their views of racial equality. While there may not be an overnight change in Guatemala, organizations like the U.N. are pushing humanitarian efforts to make life better for minorities in countries across the world.