At the “Pioneer Elementary School” in Ontario, Oregon, United States, teacher Alicia Romero Ávila conducted a workshop titled “A Journey through the Cultural Identity of the State of Yucatán.” This workshop was part of the “Fiestas de Colores, Raíces y Alegrías de México” project, organized within the framework of the Binational Migrant Education Program (PROBEM) and the Mexico-United States Teacher Exchange Program 2024.
During the workshop, the educational community in Oregon actively participated in various activities. They explored Yucatán’s cultural richness and diversity, including donning traditional Yucatecan attire, learning about the lively “bombas”, and experiencing the vibrant “jarana” dance. Romero Ávila, originally from Mérida, expressed her pride in representing something typically Yucatecan to help others understand Mexico through the wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Wearing the Yucatecan “terno” (traditional dress), Romero Ávila began the workshop by showcasing the elements that make up the typical attire of Yucatecan women. She highlighted the vivid colors and intricate Mayan embroidery of the “xokbil chuuy” (counted thread) in each “huipil” (blouse) and “terno.” She also discussed the accessories that complement the outfit, such as flowers, filigree jewelry, shawls, and white shoes.
Subsequently, participants delved into the picturesque side of Yucatán through the traditional “bombas.” These rhythmic verses, filled with emotion and sentiment, captivated the audience. However, the most moving moment came during the choreography of the Yucatecan “jarana” dance titled “Las Mujeres que se Pintan” (The Women Who Paint Themselves). This dance conveyed the joy and festive spirit associated with Yucatecan celebrations and local fairs.
Romero Ávila shared her deep emotion as she witnessed people becoming increasingly interested in Yucatán’s rich cultural diversity. The pride she felt in representing her roots and the opportunity to bring a piece of Yucatán abroad warmed her heart. Observing enchanted faces as they enjoyed the traditional dance transported her to an authentic Yucatecan fair.
Throughout four weeks, Alicia Romero worked with children aged 3 to 6 and their families, immersing them in the richness of Mexican and Yucatecan identity, traditions, and culture. Participants explored traditional games, festivities, and iconic archaeological sites. Due to the significant impact and interest generated by the educational community, students and mothers will present the dance number “Las Mujeres que se Pintan” during the closing ceremony of the “Fiestas de Colores, Raíces y Alegrías de México” project, scheduled for July 2.
Romero Ávila concluded by emphasizing the rewarding experience of being part of this cultural exchange project. Not only does she transmit Mexico’s roots, but she also shares her own origins. Learning from others while passing on cultural knowledge to her elementary school students creates a powerful connection across cultures.
