Yucatán Moves to Protect Maya Milpa Tradition

Mérida, Yucatán — The Yucatán Congress is considering a proposal to declare November 3 as “Day of the Maya Milpa: Ich Kool,” aiming to raise awareness and protect this ancestral agricultural practice. The initiative, led by Deputy Manuela Cocom Bolio, seeks to support the men and women who continue to cultivate traditional crops in the region, particularly in rural municipalities.

A Call for Recognition and Preservation

Deputy Cocom Bolio emphasized the cultural and economic significance of the Maya milpa, a traditional farming system that combines maize, beans, squash, and other crops. “The work done here is noble, benefiting many families daily through food production. Yet, despite its importance, it lacks dignified recognition,” she stated.

The legislator warned that without intervention, the practice could disappear within 25 to 30 years, taking with it numerous customs and traditions tied to the milpa. She stressed the need for government action at all levels to safeguard this heritage.

International Recognition, Local Action

The Maya milpa was designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2022, acknowledging its contributions to food security, biodiversity, and sustainability across the Yucatán Peninsula. However, Cocom Bolio argued that state-level protections are necessary to ensure its survival.

If approved, the “Day of the Maya Milpa” would be a step toward declaring the practice an intangible cultural heritage of Yucatán. The deputy highlighted that the milpa remains the primary source of agricultural products sold in Mérida’s markets, underscoring its ongoing relevance.

Related Legislative Efforts

The proposal aligns with broader efforts to preserve indigenous traditions and support rural communities. Deputy Cocom Bolio reiterated that formal recognition would not only conserve the milpa but also secure resources for those who depend on it.

The initiative is currently under review in the Yucatán Congress, with further discussions expected in the coming weeks.