Leona Vicario Celebrates International Mother Language Day with Maya Cultural Event

Leona Vicario, Quintana Roo — The municipal government of Leona Vicario celebrated International Mother Language Day with a cultural event at the El Cenote dome, reaffirming its commitment to preserving and strengthening the Maya language as an essential part of the community’s intangible heritage.

Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz led the event, emphasizing the importance of keeping the mother tongue alive as a symbol of identity and community pride.

“The Maya language is the heart of our history and the soul of our identity as an indigenous people. Preserving it is not just an institutional responsibility; it is a commitment to our roots and to future generations who deserve to know and feel proud of this great legacy,” she said.

The mayor also recognized the work of the Directorate of Indigenous and Afromexican Peoples Affairs, headed by Mirsa Cohuo, for organizing the culturally significant event that promotes the rescue and dissemination of Maya traditions.

Bernardo May, delegate of the Institute for the Development of the Maya People and Indigenous Communities of Quintana Roo (Inmaya), called for a true effort to rescue the Maya language, warning of the risk of its loss over time. He highlighted the need for more spaces and activities that strengthen identity and culture so that new generations can know and value this important ancestral legacy.

The event featured Maya dancers who filled the stage with symbolism and tradition. Storyteller Miguel Kinil shared tales in the Maya language, accompanied by brief translations for the audience.

Rapper Diego Cajún closed the cultural day with various melodies, emphasizing in his message that the Maya language now holds a central place in culture, asserting that it no longer asks for permission to be visible but takes steps with pride and determination.

Children attending the commemoration participated in various Maya language learning activities.

The event included the presence of delegate Lucelly Benítez Arzápalo; councilor Rosario del Carmen Concha Naal; councilor Antonio Chuc Pech; Leona Vicario ejidal commissioner Rogelio Concha Naal; Central Vallarta subdelegate Alejandro Mex; Government Director Alma Cruz García; and other officials and the general public.