Maya leaders convene in Mexico for cultural and linguistic summit

In Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Hilario Pat Chan has been appointed as the new Maya General of the Xcacal Ceremonial Center. His selection was reached through a consensus of high-ranking officials and commanders from more than 10 Maya companies within the region's theocratic-military system. Pat Chan, 50, previously served as a Maya Rezador and assisted the former General, Alejandro Cauich May, who passed away on July 28 due to illness.

Simultaneously, Maya representatives from Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala have gathered in Felipe Carrillo Puerto for the XV Linguistic and Cultural Encounter of the Maya People. Under the theme ‘Jaalk’ab Ximbal Beejilo’ob / Crossing Borders’, the international meeting focuses on the current state of the Maya language, addressing challenges to its preservation and strategies for revitalization.

The encounter includes academic activities, dialogue tables, and cultural presentations covering topics such as territory, identity, traditional medicine, and the role of women in Maya history. The event aims to strengthen Maya identity and share knowledge across borders to protect their living cultural heritage.