Maya Father and Son Face Discrimination at Tulum Ruins

Tulum, Mexico — A Maya father and son, lifelong residents of Tulum, have accused staff at the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) of discriminatory treatment when attempting to enter the local archaeological zone. The incident has reignited concerns over cultural sensitivity and access protocols for Indigenous communities at tourist sites.

Denial of Entry Despite Proof of Residency

The affected individual, identified as Rusell Caiuch, reported that he and his son visited the site last weekend to exercise their right to free entry as local residents. However, their access was initially denied because they did not physically present their resident credentials, despite providing digital documentation and being recognized by other employees at the location.

“He demanded my CURP [national ID number], but he just kept saying ‘no and no and no’—an older gentleman. Eventually, a security guard stepped in to support me, but the [staff member] remained reluctant,” Caiuch stated.

According to his account, another employee intervened, issuing a ticket to facilitate their entry after verifying their status as local inhabitants. Despite this, the staff member in question persisted in refusing access for several minutes.

Emotional Toll Leads to Early Departure

Though Caiuch and his son were eventually permitted to enter, the experience left them humiliated and unable to enjoy their visit. “I felt terrible, offended, and we decided to leave,” he lamented.

The case has drawn criticism over the rigid enforcement of entry policies, which require physical identification to prevent misuse of benefits but fail to account for reasonable exceptions or cultural considerations for Indigenous populations. Similar incidents have been reported at other tourist sites in the region, prompting calls for improved staff training in intercultural awareness and revised protocols to ensure dignified treatment for local communities.

As of now, INAH has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.