The Campaign for Corn

Help alleviate hunger and malnutrition afflicting indigenous communities in Chiapas. Support the 2005 Pastors for Peace Caravan to Chiapas!

In 1995, a collusion of forces including wealthy landowners, business interests, paramilitary groups and the Mexican army violently displaced thousands of indigenous people in Chiapas, Mexico. Entire communities were forced to abandon their crops and live in hiding without access to food or shelter.

Since then, large tracts of indigenous land have been seized for use as military installations. Food shortages continue because of persistent threats against people who try to tend to their fields.

Chiapas is a land of stark contrasts. Renowned for its natural beauty, Chiapas also possesses Mexico’s most abundant natural resources. Tragically, its people, are also the poorest in Mexico, with scarce access to healthcare, education and the tools to become self sufficient. These conditions have forced indigenous people of the region into virtual slavery. They are forced to work for wealthy landowners who violently control the development and use of the land.

How can you help? The Campaign for Corn is a special project of IFCO/Pastors for Peace in response to a call from indigenous leaders in Chiapas, Mexico.

The Campaign for Corn purchases bulk quantities of corn, beans, rice, and cooking oil from local cooperatives in Chiapas, and delivers them to indigenous communities throughout zones of conflict where hunger and malnutrition are widespread.