Artisans from Yucatan continue working with UNESCO on the safeguarding plan for Mayan-Yucatecan embroidery

Embroiderers from Izamal, Hoctún, and Valladolid have begun regional workshops and work on drafting a safeguarding plan for embroidery in the state of Yucatan, with UNESCO and as part of the project implemented in 12 municipalities with the support of Banorte’s Foundation.

The work includes the review, agreement, and renewal of SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats), mapping of key actors, recording of textile stitches, proposals for strategies and actions for the promotion and protection of embroidery as living heritage, based on the work previously carried out with over 300 embroiderers from 26 localities, with whom participatory diagnostics and meetings were conducted throughout 2023 to identify the main challenges for the transmission and practice of Yucatecan embroidery. This work was carried out through municipal workshops on intangible cultural heritage, finance and business models, and workshops on masculinities involving nearly a hundred men.

On this occasion, the regional workshops call upon embroiderers from the municipalities of Abalá, Dzán, Hoctún, Izamal, Maní, Muna, Oxkutzcab, Tahdziú, Teabo, Tekax, Tekit, and Valladolid, as well as representatives from various civil society and governmental organizations interested in the preservation of Yucatecan embroidery.

The joint proposal will subsequently be analyzed in a state workshop, with representatives from all municipalities, for the final drafting of the safeguarding plan that could contribute to the local declaration of the Ensemble of techniques and knowledge related to Maya-Yucatecan Embroidery as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Yucatan, which will be discussed in the plenary session of the Yucatan Congress on March 18.

Yucatecan embroidery is a manifestation of living heritage that is practiced and transmitted throughout the entire state, strengthening identity, and preserving tradition through generational transmission.

The practice of embroidery is surrounded by significant oral tradition as it includes legends, prayers, and dialogues in the Maya language that are still relevant and present in ceremonies, rituals, and throughout the community’s life cycle. This represents an opportunity to reinforce the preservation of its values and foster recognition in support of Yucatecan families.

The UNESCO project with embroiderers addresses cultural and gender perspectives to guide economic and social improvement, with the support of the Banorte Foundation, and the collaboration of the Ministry of Culture and Arts, the Ministry of Women, and the Yucatecan Institute of Entrepreneurs of the state government.

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