The universality of the Plan National de Pastoral Indígena

Somos is anchored by the Plan National de la Pastoral Indigena, a visionary document blending the social, political, and humanistic teachings of both the Gospel and the Popol Vuh — the sacred text of the Maya — the initiative seeks to reclaim dignity, self-determination, and respect for all human beings.

Spanning 176 profound points, these principles transcend geographic, religious, and cultural boundaries, resonating universally with all who uphold these ideals.

They envision a world where justice, equality, and human dignity prevail, challenging existing power dynamics and advocating for the autonomy of indigenous Maya peoples in Guatemala and beyond.

Yet these struggles are not confined to indigenous communities alone. The lack of access to medical care that afflicts a Maya elder in the Guatemalan highlands mirrors the same challenge faced by a citizen of New York who cannot afford healthcare.

The battle for land, where indigenous groups defend their ancestral homes against multinational corporations or criminal threats, is echoed in the fight of families in the Western world, losing their homes due to job loss or the crushing cost of medical treatments for their children.

These challenges, while rooted in different contexts, reveal a shared human struggle for dignity, security, and survival.

Ayzoh! embraces this mandate with its distinctive approach through photography, video, and multimedia storytelling.

By visually documenting each point across diverse locations — be it Guatemala, Ethiopia, Italy, the United States, or elsewhere — we aim to showcase the universality of these principles.
Whether capturing a challenge, a solution, a moment of resilience, or a celebration, our work illuminates the interconnectedness of human experiences and the enduring relevance of these profound ideals.

Through our lens, we not only document but also advocate, educate, and inspire action.

Each image and story becomes a testament to the resilience and aspirations of indigenous communities, while also fostering empathy and solidarity across borders.

We invite you to explore and be part of Somos

Be part of a global effort to foster unity, justice, and dignity for all. Your contribution empowers Indigenous communities to thrive, ensuring their voices are heard on a global stage. Continue reading to explore the origins of SOMOS, its objectives, and the incredible communities we work with around the world.

  • Why Somos / Why it matters
  • Genesis of the project
  • Plan National de Pastoral Indigena
  • Obiectives of Somos
  • Action plan
  • Methodology / Frugality and excellence
  • Youth and school exchange
  • Timing and budget
  • Team and organization involved
  • What does "Indigenous" mean?
Ayzoh!

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