Mujeres indígenas en Bolivia: algunas tensiones creativas

Abstract

This article aims to prove that the indigenous presence in the main events that eventually led to the constitution of a Bolivian state has been continuous throughout history. However, it is in the 20^th Century when they become active and recognizable participants in politics, economy and society in general, assuming a relevant political role towards the end of the 21^st Century. Indigenous women, in spite of having to face more difficulties, have never been outsiders in this process. They have dealt with the multiple worlds they live in, and understood and interpreted their codes remarkably well.

The world of indigenous women is complex, with several tensions that generate and modify identities. Although democracy is the overall context, there are political and academic limitations that should not be overlooked. The excessive influence of ideology and politically correct thinking is not helpful when the main aim is to build a common agenda with other women’s movements based on their own identity. The main threat today is the progressive loss of autonomy and the governmental assimilation of their organizations without it being part of a fair negotiation or exchange.