PBI receives human rights award

Guatemala - Dominga Vasquez, a prominent member of the indigenous rights group FUNDAMAYA (Maya Foundation), has been invited to the UK to receive the International Service Human Rights Award along with one of her PBI accompaniers, Helen Woodcock. Dominga, who was elected as the first female indigenous mayor of Solola, has been a vigorous opposer of mining expansion. As a result of this she received threats against her life as well a vehicle belonging to her organisation being set on fire. The award, which will be presented at a reception in the house of commons on Friday is for the defence of the rights of women.