This project unifies Quiché Mayan youth and elders to document the centuries-old traditional forest management practices in video, music and performance and inspire youth to be environmental stewards.
Despite their best efforts to preserve it, Totonicapán's Quiché elders are deeply concerned that traditional forest management knowledge will be lost. This concern has two causes. First, the younger generation seems to be indifferent to traditional wisdom and the importance of natural resources. Second, the rich tapestry of stories that convey how and why the Quiché manage the forest in a state of ecological and spiritual equilibrium has not been documented.
Through innovative documentation methods like video and music, ArtCorps will inspire youth to connect with elders in their communities to learn, understand and continue centuries-old traditional forest management practices.
By engaging at least 2 youth from 40 communities in Totonicapán, this project prepares young leaders to become the principal actors in protecting the environment while also documenting traditional conservation practices.
