Summary

This project will bring literacy and confidence to indigenous women in Oaxaca, Mexico using an innovative art-based bilingual curriculum that engages all five senses.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Oaxaca, being a mainly indigenous state, has one of the lowest literacy rates in Mexico, and literacy among indigenous adult women is even lower. Historically there has been a major bias towards Spanish literacy in education, leaving indigenous languages marginalized. Migration to the US for jobs has also left women as heads of households. Illiteracy and discrimination has been a major barrier for women in trying to market their weaving products and create sustainable micro-businesses.

How will this project solve this problem?

The Circle of Women’s literacy program provides indigenous women with the skills to be confident adults and entrepreneurs both in Spanish and their indigenous languages (Mixtec) through the use of an innovative art-based bilingual curriculum.

Potential Long Term Impact

The project will educate 50 indigenous women in the Mixteca region of Oaxaca, Mexico with in the next three years allowing them to rise out of poverty, which will provide for their families health and well-being.

Project Message

When I started the literacy program, I was very shy. I am now enrolled in a primary school home-study program, hold my head high and can look people in the eye with confidence. 
- Odelia, Circle of Women Literacy Program Graduate

Funding Information

Additional Documentation