Who are we ?

The Q’eqchi’ Association Xch’ool Ixim is a community organisation for Q’eqchi Maya people. We are proactive in  fighting to return vitality and strength to Q’eqchi Maya culture - not only to our language, traditional dress, customs and traditions, but also to our traditional knowledge, authorities, cultural values and principles, to ensure our development is rooted in Q’eqchi Maya culture. We also work to promote knowledge and understanding of our true history, our rights, identity and dignity; and to raise awareness of our social, political, cultural and economic circumstances.

We were founded by indigenous community leaders from rural areas, who continue to manage the Association.  Our managerial structure has our General Assembly at its head, a Directors’ Board to manage activities, and a General Coordinator  charged with  coordinating and carrying out projects.

The association was founded 7 June 1993, in San José Peña Blanca, in the Cobán district, Alta Verapaz. A diverse group of communities from the area united to start the organisation in the aftermath of our country’s 36-year internal armed conflict.

General Assembly