July is the beginning of a cycle in Teotitlan del Valle, the Zapotec weaving village. It is a three year cycle and this July is the beginning of the end of the cycle, the beginning of the third year. This week marks the annual celebration of the
Preciosa Sangre de Nuestro Senor Jesucristo, which is filled with traditions, including several performances of the danza de la pluma.
Yesterday was the first of two convites or processions by the unmarried women and girls of the village. They carry canastas or baskets with religious figures atop. It is not easy. You can see they start at an early age.
This is one of the most important celebrations of the the year and over 250 participated in the procession yesterday along with two bands and all of the danzantes.
They assemble in front of the church where the procession begins and ends, with a four or five km walk in between.
It is always such a wonderful occasion.
They come in all ages.
Many return from the States to participate. It's always an honor.
Young boys lead the whole event. This guy has a fantastic creation to carry.
More as the week progresses.
2 comments:
Their traditions and participation in their events ,by the young, keep their culture together. All ages participate and all seem to be proud. Many in the U.S. have lost this, as we move away and our families split up. There is so much good in Mexico, and there is bad too, i.e., the cartels, but overall your postings from the Oaxaca area give us hope that good wins over evil.
Thanks Chris for the photo's and commentary.
Steve and Bev
Thank you for your beautiful posts and notes... We always enjoy reading them.. Some day we will cross paths since we are permanent neighbors..
Wish the sense of family would still be in the US. Living in Mexico affords such a wonderful learning experience....
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