Tlamacazapa Basket with Women’s Rights Message
Nahua Culture, Guerrero, Mexico
palm leaves, natural dyes
12.5" high x 8.5" diamter
The Nahuatl peoples have the ancient and powerful Aztecs as their ancestors. Their language was the trade language of the Aztec Empire. Linguists can trace modern Nahuatl languages back to the Aztecs who lived in the same locations centuries ago. They often called themselves "Mexicano" from which Mexico was named. Together the Nahuatls make up between one fifth and one fourth of Mexico’s indigenous population. There are many Nahuatl languages including Tlamacazapa.
Nahua women, particularly in Mexico, have a complex history regarding their rights and autonomy, influenced by both traditional practices and modern societal changes. While they have historically held significant roles in their communities, including owning and inheriting land and contributing to the economy, they also face challenges related to gender inequality and patriarchal structures.
