Peru cultural practitioners seek support for Andean heritage preservation

Cultural practitioners and organizations in Peru are seeking increased support to preserve traditional Andean heritage. In Juliaca, the Los Chiñipilcos cultural association recently held the ‘Pinquillo de Oro’ contest at Huaynarroque hill to promote indigenous dances such as the Soldaditos de Santa Catalina and Pulipulis.

Cirilo Quispe Mamani, president of the association, called upon educational authorities and the Local Education Management Unit (UGEL) to implement music workshops for youth. The association aims to safeguard these traditions, which are at risk of disappearing, through its existing art and culture school.

Separately, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture has honored two individuals with the ‘Personalidad Meritoria de la Cultura’ distinction for their contributions to national heritage. Tiodoro Pacco Choque, a textile artisan from Palca, Puno, was recognized for his mastery of traditional weaving and teaching. Musician Ángeles Ligorio Dámazo Oróstegui was also honored for over five decades of dedication to traditional Andean music, specifically the ‘huayno con arpa’ from the Lima highlands.