Quintana Roo Governor awards Maya researcher Deira Patricia Jiménez Balam

Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa presented the ‘María Petrona Uicab’ Maya Indigenous Woman Merit Medal to researcher and professor Deira Patricia Jiménez Balam during a solemn session of the Quintana Roo Congress.

Jiménez Balam, originally from Felipe Carrillo Puerto, was recognized for her academic career and contributions to Maya communities. Her work focuses on Maya culture, intercultural education, community development, and the study of health and emotions from a cultural perspective. Her research has helped strengthen the link between academic knowledge and community identity while promoting traditional knowledge.

The medal was established by state decree to honor indigenous Maya women who have distinguished themselves by preserving Maya culture and identity and improving the living conditions of their communities. The award is named after María Petrona Uicab, a Maya leader known for her legacy of defense and resistance.