In Maria Mena Lagunas’ ejido – collectively owned land- women used to depend on whatever men earned.
“In my community, surviving is hard. Most men are away, working in big cities like Veracruz or Mexico City.”
But things are changing and women are taking things into their own hands.
“We used to buy everything, up to the herbs we use to cook. But we have land, we must learn to cultvate it.”
Maria and the ejido’s other 28 families are now learning how to make the most of their land. “The goal is to raise awareness within the community that we can grow what we eat.”
Oxfam Mexico’s program isn’t only about food though. It’s also a way to give women more independance.
“There’s a lot machism in Mexico. But here, the women in this community, we are free. We don’t let men decide anymore. I can choose for myself, what I want to do, what I can do.”
Photo: Oxfam Mexico
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