Yachil (Xojobal Chu’lchan)

Yachil Xojobal Chu’lchan, which means “new light in the sky” in the Tzeltal language, has members from the Tzotzil and Tzeltal Mayan indigenous groups supportive of the Zapatista autonomous movement working towards respect for Indigenous rights. In 2001, Yachil began to organize its first members with 383 producers from the municipalities of Chilon, Pantelho and San Juan Cancuc.

In 2003 Yachil sold its first container to Germany, and in 2004 they sold just over 2 containers to Germany and 1 into the US. They currently are comprised of 1,552 members in seven municipalities, with an export capacity of some 27 containers.

Members of this fair trade coffee cooperative have formed their own local Indigenous governments, which focus on community development efforts to promote democracy, equality, and empowerment. Members do not accept government handouts. Over the last decade members of Yachil have suffered repression at the hands of government security forces and the paramilitary. Many members and their families have been forced to flee their communities as internal refugees and they continue to be victims of oppression, intimidation, and even assassination.

Each season we visit these communities and experience the tribulations they face on a daily basis. We provide a “solidarity” premium in each lot of green coffee we purchase which assists them in working through the pressures and continue to strengthen the structure of their indigenous heritage.