Rigoberta Menchú Tum

Born: January 9, 1959 in Guatemala

From a poor peasant family, she got involved in reform movements & the women’s rights movement as a teen.

Taught herself Spanish and other Mayan languages.

Founded a group to resist oppression in Guatemala and became part of the Committee of the Peasant Union, pushing for better pay & education.

Received the Nobel Peace Prize for her effort to bring social justice to the poor.

“I am like a drop of water on a rock. After drip, drip, dripping in the same place I begin to leave a mark, and I leave my mark in many people’s hearts.”