Women in Rarámuri communities face high levels of illiteracy, violence, unemployment, and malnutrition.

Why we care: Large numbers of women from indigenous communities like the Rarámuri cannot read or write and have few job options.

How we’re solving this: Ensuring Rarámuri women gain literacy, business skills and the self-confidence, to obtain stable jobs and uphold the dignity of their communities.

The Raramuri communities are located in the high Sierras of Chihuahua, and have remained relatively isolated from Mexican society, allowing them to preserve their rich culture. However, due to their isolation, access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities is minimal. Rarámuri communities–particularly Rarámuri women—face high levels of illiteracy, violence, unemployment, and malnutrition.

ALCADECO has worked with the Rarámuri communities to ensure their economic sustainability so that women are not forced to move to cities, accept poorly-paid jobs on drug plantations, become dependent on the sale of handicrafts to tourists, or beg for their livlihood.

ALCADECO has designed an educational program that will teach women to read and write in Rarámuri and Spanish, as well as basic math skills. Women will train to become resource persons in their communities by participating in workshops and conferences, discussing taboo issues such as violence, healthcare, and drug addiction. Women will also learn how to start their own business projects to benefit themselves, their families, and their communities.

These programs will empower Rarámuri women while acknowledging the rich history of traditional indigenous values. After the workshops, women will be able to confront problems associated with health, family violence, poverty, and other prominent issues in their communities.