CPTnet
December 10, 2001
CHIAPAS: A light on the future and an invitation to pray
by Angie Freeman
Standing in a circle, in a moment of silence, we lit each other’s candle in
turn, slowly lighting up the space between us. After the silence was
broken, we wanted to mourn and to celebrate at the same time.
After weeks of discernment and conversations with individuals and
organizations, CPT Mexico has decided to put the Chiapas project on hold for
three months, with a re-evaluation for a final closure at the end of that
period. We do this with much celebration because of the changes that have
occurred within the Municipality of Chenalho since CPT first arrived in May
1998.
The initial invitation to CPT from the Abejas and the Diocese came in a time
of fear and desperation for those living within Chenalho, particularly those
who were not affiliated with the PRI ruling party. When CPT entered
Chiapas, the increasing domination of the Mexican army in the region and
threats from paramilitary forces had forced over 10, 000 people to flee
their villages.
Now, as we approach the fourth anniversary since the massacre in Acteal,
there are no longer checkpoints in Chenalho, and several military bases have
closed. In addition, most of the displaced Abejas families have returned to
their original communities without violence. These positive changes have
been encouraging to CPT, a reminder of the power of the continued nonviolent
resistance here, and have contributed greatly to our decision to withdraw.
As we, the Chiapas team, and the Mesa Directiva of the Abejas, were standing
in our candlelit circle, we shared in that moment the realization that we
have done good work together, and that there will always be a connection to
each other as we all strive for peace.
CPT Mexico fully recognizes that we are bringing closure to this project
without seeing justice and without seeing peace in all of Chiapas. For this
reason that we would like to invite you to join us in prayer, by candle
light, on the evening of December 22. Please pray, wherever you find
yourself that night, for those who are still experiencing threats or
violence in Chiapas, and for those who feel the economic oppression more
strongly now that the guns are lifted. Please also pray for the Abejas and
other organizations as they work toward a more just future in their
communities.
