Women from the Tolupán Indigenous communities in Honduras are calling for greater participation in political and community decision-making, arguing that their voices are largely excluded from spaces that determine the future of their people.
During the forum “Voices that propose: priorities of Indigenous and Afro-Honduran women toward 2030”, supported by the United Nations, Spain and the European Union, Tolupán leader Mauricia Castro emphasized the need to strengthen civic participation and build alliances among Indigenous women to influence political decisions.
Castro denounced land dispossession, mining exploitation, and deforestation in Tolupán territories, which have resulted in violence and the deaths of Indigenous leaders. She also reaffirmed how the Tolupán people continue to face challenges in health, education, and employment, particularly in remote areas where women often lack access to healthcare. Castro concluded that without unity and organization, Indigenous women will continue to be denied participation in political decisions.
Compiled From: Germán Reyes, “Las mujeres de la etnia tolupán en Honduras reclaman espacios para tomar decisiones”, EFeminista, Oct. 4, 2025.