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Grupo Mam

Grupo Mam / Qe xjal Mam 

The Mam Group is made up of indigenous Mayan women from Guatemala who speak the Mam language. They meet twice a month: once via Zoom and once in person at their Oakland office. These meetings combine spaces for open communication, educational workshops, political training, and self-care.  

History and Growth

The group began in October 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, with a virtual reach since all MUA services were remote. Between November and December of that year, the Mam members began participating in general meetings in Spanish. In January 2021, the Mam Group held its first Zoom meeting with 14 members. 

Today, the group has grown significantly:  

  • More than 170 women from the Mam community receive support.  
  • About 25 members regularly attend the meetings.
  • 11 female leaders facilitate meetings and workshops, supporting Zoom, face-to-face meetings and MUA activities.

Activities and Workshops 

The Mam Group offers various activities for the well-being and growth of its members, including:  

– Community garden with planting activities and connection with the land.  

– Migration grief workshop.

– Nutrition workshops.

– Personal growth workshop “Take the helm of your life”

In addition, we provide support with:  

– Individual counseling.  

– References to relevant resources within and outside of MUA.  

– Accompanying people to court, the hospital, and in other situations of need. 

Leadership and Vision

The group's leaders not only facilitate meetings and workshops, but also actively participate in MUA committees, leading spaces such as:  

– Presentations on immigrants' rights.  

– Training in community leadership.  

– Training for personal and political growth.  

– Emotional support groups

The Mam Group is a reflection of strength, growth, and resilience. We continue to move forward together, creating spaces of support and leadership for our entire community.

If you know a Mam-speaking woman who needs support or would like to join the Mam Group, you can call or text 510-905-9334 Monday through Friday between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm.

Qa ttzqin tey jun xuj b'an yolin tuj qyol ex taj jun onb'il ex qa ta'j tz'okx tuj jun k'loj xuj te tuj qyol, b'an tzaj q'ajt tey ex qa jaka tzaj tq'on tey jun tpaka'b'(message) tu'j (510) 905-9334 Monday to Friday te 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. 

Programs