“If traditions continue, there is hope”

▲ Photo by Cristina Gómez Lima

La Jornada Newspaper, Monday, July 21, 2025, p. 3

In southern Sonora lies the indigenous community of El Júpare, home to Antolín Vázquez Valenzuela, winner of the 2024 National Arts and Literature Award in the category of Popular Arts and Traditions for his work defending and disseminating Yoreme-Mayo culture. In an interview with La Jornada, he asserts that his struggle responds to the risk of indigenous languages disappearing, such as Yoremnokki, which is currently spoken fluently by 30 percent of the community in southern Sonora. He notes that the award does not end his efforts, as for him, the best way to dignify his culture is to speak the native language. We are a people of great spirit and heart. We refuse to disappear. We will continue here, dancing, singing, and caring for our roots .