Mexico City Congress Advocates for ‘Mayordomías’ as Intangible Cultural Heritage
Mexico City, February 22 – The Mexico City Congress has officially proposed to the local Secretariat of Culture, through the Interinstitutional Commission for Cultural, Natural, and Biocultural Heritage, to analyze and evaluate the recognition of the ‘mayordomías’ of towns and neighborhoods as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mexico City.
This significant proposal follows a Point of Agreement presented by Deputy Martha Ávila Ventura, which was unanimously approved by the Plenary. Deputy Ávila Ventura emphasized that ‘mayordomías’ serve as crucial mechanisms of cultural resistance, enabling the continuation of original traditions within a highly urbanized and globalized metropolis that often strips communities of their unique identity.
‘Mayordomías’: Pillars of Community and Tradition
During the Ordinary Session held on February 17, the MORENA legislator underscored that ‘mayordomías’ are more than just festive traditions. They are historical forms of community organization that foster citizen participation from the grassroots level, embodying social co-responsibility, collective work, and community cohesion in territories with strong historical identities. “They are spaces where neighbors organize themselves, inspired by a commitment to their community,” Ávila Ventura stated.
These community structures play a vital role in strengthening collective identity and fulfilling various social functions. They coordinate neighborhood networks, promote community solidarity, organize traditional festivities, and contribute to the intergenerational transmission of values, knowledge, and customs.
Geographical Impact and Legal Framework
Deputy Ávila Ventura highlighted that the boroughs of Iztapalapa, Milpa Alta, Tláhuac, Tlalpan, and Xochimilco are the areas with the most significant historical presence of towns and neighborhoods where ‘mayordomías’ are instrumental. In these regions, they ensure the preservation of traditional festive calendars, cultural expressions, and practices that are integral to Mexico City’s cultural heritage.
The legal basis for this initiative is rooted in Article 51 of the Law of Cultural, Natural, and Biocultural Heritage of Mexico City. This article stipulates that Declarations are legal instruments designed to guarantee the safeguarding of goods, expressions, and values considered Cultural, Natural, or Biocultural Heritage of the capital.
The Broader Context of Heritage Preservation
The move to recognize ‘mayordomías’ as Intangible Cultural Heritage aligns with broader efforts to protect and promote the rich cultural tapestry of Mexico City. Such recognition would provide a formal framework for their preservation, ensuring that these vital community practices continue to thrive for future generations. It also underscores the importance of bottom-up initiatives in cultural conservation, where local communities are empowered to safeguard their traditions against the pressures of modern urbanization.
The proposal by the Mexico City Congress reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect not only tangible historical sites but also the living traditions and social practices that define the identity of its diverse communities. The evaluation by the Interinstitutional Commission for Cultural, Natural, and Biocultural Heritage will be a crucial step in determining the official recognition and subsequent safeguarding measures for these invaluable cultural assets.
This initiative is expected to garner significant support from cultural organizations, community leaders, and residents who recognize the profound impact of ‘mayordomías’ on the social fabric and cultural vibrancy of Mexico City.
Source: congresocdmx.gob.mx
