Michoacán is a state located in central Mexico. This region of mountains and forests is inhabited by the P’urhépecha indigenous populations, whose language P’urhe is still spoken today and who are renowned for their fine work with the different types of wood found in the area. The P’urhépecha are concentrated in 22 municipalities across the breadth of the state.
Michoacán is also known for its natural beauty and the richness of its land and climate, making it a favourable place for the cultivation of different fruits exported internationally, including the avocado. Mexico is the largest producer worldwide of this precious product which has an annual economic impact of billions of dollars.
The P’urhépecha Plateau is home to around 70% of Mexico’s national avocado production. This has given rise to clashes in Michoacán between organized crime groups as they vie for control of the territory and avocado market. The situation has led, in turn, to the formation of community militias and self-defence groups who, fed up with the extortion and the abuses committed by the organized crime groups, have taken up arms to protect their lands. In some cases, however, these community militias and self-defence groups have also been involved in the violation of human rights.
Continue reading “Religious minorities in Michoacán, Mexico just wanted to be treated equally”
