This program was previously completed as a collaboration between Boston University and Origins of Food. The Guatemala: Food and Health program is a 9 day alternative spring break program that explores food and healthcare around Guatemala, land of the Maya.

 

Mesoamerica is the homeland of many of the world’s “superfoods,” including chia, flax and cacao. It is the native home of many of the modern world’s staple foods such as corn, squash, tomatoes and beans, yet Guatemalans suffer from some of the highest malnutrition rates in the world.

Why should a country so rich in food, diverse natural resources and a powerful, knowledgeable ancient civilization struggle to maintain a healthy, well-fed population? We’ll attempt to answer this question by exploring Guatemala’s recent historical 30-year civil war, as well as by meeting inspirational and innovative community organizations that are working towards a healthy and sustainable future for their people.

Through the lens of food systems and production, we will engage in a dialogue that studies many of the social, environmental and economic issues that are currently in play within this small but resilient Central American country. We’ll team with a local food advocacy and indigenous rights group and get our hands dirty working on a community-initiated agroecology project.

 

This program is run in conjunction with Boston University's College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College.