Youth Wellness in the Miskitu Territories of Nicaragua | 2017

World Centric + CEJUDHCAN

$6,803.33 from profits from fiscal year 2017

Non-native settlers have been moving into the Awas Tingni territory on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Armed with machetes and guns, the new-comers regularly threaten and perpetrate violence on the Awas Tingni. Teachers have fled from the communities, leaving youth without formal schooling and little to distract them from the stress of the invasion. The trauma of being under attack is increasing stress-related health issues such as insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure, and domestic violence. Village elders want to provide daily opportunities for young people to relax, have fun, exercise and take their mind off the current situation. This project focuses on creating baseball and softball leagues. The games, held at different villages each week, will offer a time for the whole village to relax, socialize and enjoy.

The Impact

• Baseball and softball equipment for 48 people (four 12-person teams).

Indirect impact:

• Stress reduction will allow Miskito people to maintain their health and allow for continued participation in food production.

The Approach

In August of 2018 CEJUDHCAN will source baseball equipment. The following month the equipment will be delivered to the villages. Each community must sign a contract upon receipt of the equipment. CEJUDHCAN will provide a coach to help set up the teams and provide training. The official Miskitu League Baseball (MLB) season will run from November 2018 - April 2019, which is the dry season in Nicaragua.

About CEJUDHCAN

A World Centric partner since 2017.

CEJUDHCAN is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization that provides educational programs, legal support, and practical assistance to indigenous peoples and afro-descendant communities on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua. They these communities with the actualization of their established communal rights, specifically self-determination and autonomous governance over communal lands.

More projects with CEJUDHCAN

• Land & Food Security for Women in The Miskitu Territories of Nicaragua

Updates

August 2018

Despite the political conflict in Nicaragua, which has blocked many roads, Lottie was able to pick up and deliver the baseball equipment for the teams. Their official season will begin in November 2018.