On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, celebrated on February 21st, Bií Hioxo Wind Farm reaffirms our commitment to the preservation and strengthening of indigenous languages, especially Zapotec, in the community of Juchitán de Zaragoza, Oaxaca.
With this event, we commemorate the valuable linguistic and cultural heritage of the region, promoting social inclusion and respect for diversity.
In Juchitán, 52.9% of the population speaks at least one indigenous language, with Zapotec being one of the most spoken languages. With over 58,000 registered speakers, the Seventh Section of this community stands out as the area with the highest participation in the Bií Hioxo Wind Farm’s interest groups, motivating us to implement actions that strengthen the mother tongue.
The event in Colonia Lorenza Santiago Esteva, in the Seventh Section, offered a variety of cultural and educational activities for the entire community. Highlights included the participation of the Nacanu’ Bií Community House music club, t-shirt and printmaking workshops, board games in Zapotec, storytelling and riddles, and a painting workshop featuring symbols of the Zapotec language.
There was also a sale of handmade products by local artisans and a debate after the screening of the short film “Behua Xiñá,” directed by Cinthya Lizbeth Toledo Cabrera, which allowed attendees to immerse themselves in the world of indigenous cinema.
One of the most significant moments was the t-shirt printing activity, where artist Vidal Guerra taught Xquendas volunteers the screen printing technique, allowing participants to create their own garments with designs reflecting the cultural richness of Zapotec.
A total of 115 commemorative t-shirts were printed. Additionally, artist José Alberto Pavian López offered a printmaking workshop, training Xquenda volunteer Dara Itzel Luis Aquino, who implemented the technique of body stamps on leaf and t-shirt, an ancestral artistic tradition that connects language with visual art.
With 145 registered attendees and 11 new connections, the event clearly reflected the community’s interest and participation in strengthening their mother tongue. Through this celebration, we not only aim to raise awareness about the importance of indigenous languages but also to create spaces where Zapotec culture is lived and valued in its entirety.
“Languages play a crucial role in people’s lives, not only as a tool for communication, education, and social integration, but also as a repository of identity, cultural history, traditions, and the unique memory of each person. We thank the Bií Hioxo wind farm for inviting us to the Screen Printing Workshop” post on the social media page of the Educational Guidance and Tutoring Department of CONALEP 243.
“As parents, all we can do is support them and always have the flexibility to ask them, ‘What would you like to study in the future?’ and support them because we understand that many, due to economic reasons or personal issues, do not finish their studies, but they can still learn a trade”, Project Coordinator, Saydy Meliza Manuel Villalobos
“How great the people here were, and the volunteers were really good, they have great attitude. Volunteer Dara helped me a lot with inking the children. I’ve been to other events, but I’ve never felt the vibe like today. Honestly, I have no problem collaborating with you. Let me know if another workshop is set up”, José Alberto Pavian López, Printmaking liaison.
