Maya Women Reclaim Their Heritage and Livelihood Through Uxmal Archaeological Project
In the heart of Yucatán, Mexico, a group of Maya women from the village of San Simón have embarked on a journey to reconnect with their ancestral heritage while securing their financial independence.
Through a community participation project initiated by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), these women are actively involved in the archaeological work at the ancient Maya city of Uxmal.
Nancy Aracely Tzec Aguilar, one of the participants, grew up hearing stories from her grandmother about the magnificence of Uxmal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uxmal was a flourishing city during the Late Classic period (600-850 AD). Now, Nancy and her fellow villagers are helping to uncover its secrets.
“I like the work; they respect me,” says Wendy Abnal Collí, another participant who was present when experts uncovered an intricately carved stele in October 2022. “Collaborating on this project allows us to earn money to support our expenses and raise our children; that is very important for us.”
The project has not only provided economic opportunities for the women, who traditionally did not have independent incomes but has also transformed their perception of the archaeological site. Initially hesitant to visit Uxmal, viewing it as a place for tourists, they now proudly claim it as their own.
“It is our heritage; we like to see the pyramids,” says Angélica Collí Abnal. “I come and tell my children: ‘I did that, I worked on this.'”
Including Indigenous Peoples
José Huchim Herrera, the head of the Uxmal archaeological zone, emphasizes the importance of integrating the local Mayan population into the archaeological work.
“When they get involved, they get to know the buildings, the architectural complexes, and they already know each of the activities that take place during the archaeological project,” he explains.
Diego Prieto Hernández, the director-general of INAH, presented a video showcasing the women’s experiences in the project. Their work ranges from cleaning to marking buildings alongside specialists.
The women’s involvement in the project has also had a profound impact on their families. They now proudly tell their children that the magnificent structures of Uxmal were built by their ancestors.
For these women, the Uxmal project is more than just a job; it is a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and cultural reappropriation. Their work is ensuring that the legacy of their ancestors is not only preserved but celebrated and shared with future generations.
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