This research assesses Guatemalan-American perceptions of the United States involvement in the Guatemalan Civil War and gauges support for US backed reconciliation through discussions with four first and second-generation Guatemalan-Americans living in the United States and through the examination of existing comments on a Reddit public discussion forum. This research collates studies of reparation efforts, truth and justice committees, healing, and historical memory in similar post-conflict settings to suggest pathways for Guatemalan reconciliation. Preliminary data collection elicits three primary themes in perceptions of the US' involvement in the Guatemalan Civil War: (partial) blame toward the US, lack of education, and ongoing legacies. Interlocutors and discussion board commentors described US culpability, often revealing charged feelings toward the US, where many now live. Lack of adequate education regarding the conflict and its origins was also noted in conversations of erasure and the rewriting of history. Ongoing legacies are evidenced by the emotions evoked through the memories and stories retold, but also by the specific word choice employed by participants. The findings of this study are influential to the understanding of state-sponsored violence and its aftermath, particularly when such violence is incited or supported internationally. This study may inform how actions and policy can promote international reconciliation, setting an expectation for accountability in foreign affairs.
Ariana Chiapas (Sat,) studied this question.