In the verdant highlands of Sololá, Guatemala, an indigenous collective known as Awän is spearheading efforts to safeguard traditional farming practices amidst the encroaching challenges of modernity. Their latest endeavour takes shape on Kickstarter, where they seek backing to erect a crucial infrastructure supporting their mission.
At the heart of Awän’s initiative lies a commitment to revitalizing ancestral models of agriculture deeply intertwined with Maya identity and Mesoamerican cosmology. Their collective efforts span from sustainable food production to biodiversity conservation, all grounded in a reverence for the land passed down through generations.
As the community grapples with socioeconomic shifts, including youth migration to urban centers and the proliferation of processed foods, Awän’s resilience shines through. Through pedagogical spaces and workshops conducted in the Kaqchikel Mayan language, they strive to empower locals to reclaim their agricultural heritage and forge sustainable livelihoods rooted in the land.
Central to their cause is the preservation and exchange of native and creole seeds, essential for maintaining crop diversity and resilience in the face of climate change. The proposed roofed space, the focus of their Kickstarter campaign, will serve as a hub for educational activities, providing a sheltered environment for dialogue and hands-on learning.
The plight of indigenous farming communities in Guatemala echoes broader global concerns about food sovereignty and cultural preservation. Awän’s initiative stands as a beacon of hope, offering a tangible opportunity for individuals worldwide to support grassroots efforts toward sustainable agriculture and community empowerment.
By backing this Kickstarter campaign organized by LA-based non-profit filmmaker Verónica Wood, supporters can play a direct role in safeguarding indigenous knowledge and promoting resilient food systems. As Awän strives to preserve the rich tapestry of Maya agricultural traditions, their campaign serves as a rallying cry for solidarity in the fight against the erosion of cultural heritage and environmental degradation.
