The Struggle for Liberation and Reconciliation in Chiapas, Mexico: Las Abejas and the Path of Nonviolent Resistance

Chronicles the development & activities of Las Abejas -- an indigenous, primarily Catholic group of Tzotzil Mayas in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, devoted to nonviolent resistance -- since its founding in 1992. The movement's struggle for peace centers around two closely related issues -- liberation & reconciliation -- & is rooted in three interconnected social changes: (1) the work of the progressive Catholic Church, (2) economic crisis, & (3) the formation of opposition political parties, peasant organizations, & similar groups. Shared goals between Las Abejas & the violent Zapatista are examined, & the nonviolent reactions of Las Abejas to the 1994 Zapatista uprising & the 1997 Acteal massacre are noted. It is concluded that the actions of Las Abejas have affirmed the power of indigenous groups in the fight for rights through peaceful means. 30 References. K. Hyatt Stewart