Presentation of Issue No. 19 of Sarance Journal

Abstract

The compilation of laws presented in this issue of Sarance is especially aimed at a group of great importance in shaping Ecuadorian nationality: the Indigenous peoples. The considerations of those in power when enacting laws and adopting measures to change the situation of these groups vary—from the viewpoint of the Liberator Simón Bolívar, in his decree of October 15, 1828, stating that “having been made equal under the law of September 14 of the 11th year in matters of taxation with other Colombians, with the intention of benefiting them, far from improving their condition, it has worsened and their needs have become more severe”; to that of Ecuador’s first president, General Juan José Flores, on October 5, 1833, who held that “it is the duty of the Government to promote the education of the Indigenous peoples so that they may emerge from the ignorance and rusticity to which the colonial system has led them”; and finally to that of Eloy Alfaro, dated August 18, 1895, during the Liberal Revolution, who recognized “that the unfortunate condition of the Indigenous race must be alleviated by public authorities.”