Genracio'n de Generacio'n: Ladino Perspectives on Relations with Indigenous Groups in Guatemala

Abstract

This study is focused on Ladino (European-descent) perspectives of race-relations with indigenous groups (Mayan-descent) in Guatemala. In particular, 13 Ladino parents were interviewed regarding their perceptions on the current social status of their indigenous counterparts, on social barriers and the ways in which they socialise their children about race relations with Guatemala's indigenous groups. Participants were recruited from Cobán and El Quiché. Interviews were analysed using grounded theory. Study participants suggested that they reject categorical racism, and that governmental policies have been effective in establishing indigenous rights and mitigating social inequality. However, most participants blamed indigenous cultural practices as the cause of their oppression, and some participants indicated a concern that Ladinos are losing political power. Thus, it appears that explicit forms of racism are less socially acceptable and bias may now manifest in more subtle forms. Findings are contextualised within social dominance theory.