Carlos Aceves discusses advancing Chicano/Mexicano Indigeneity in the U.S./Mexico Borderlands and the Xinachtli Project incorporating indigenous pedagogy in childhood education. Topics include incorporating indigenous ceremonies, teaching indigenous knowledge using Nahuatl language and Mesoamerican mathematics, and the significance of Mexicaire tradition in reconnecting with nature.
Embracing honesty leads to positive life guidance.
Podcast explores Mexican American issues in the Borderlands.
Carlos Aceves Yoloitzcalo integrates indigenous pedagogy in education.
Deep dives
Honesty as a Crucial Life Lesson
Learning the value of honesty, both to oneself and others, is highlighted as an essential life lesson by the podcast host, Ruben Ariano Tlacatecad. He emphasizes the significance of honesty, stating that it will guide individuals positively throughout their lives. This lesson, recognized through personal experiences and interactions during his stay in El Paso, illuminates the lasting impact of embracing honesty in various aspects of life.
Los Professors: A Unique Podcast Initiative
The podcast delves into Ruben Ariano Tlacatecad's collaboration with Dr. Miguel Juarez to create 'Los Professors,' addressing topics centered around Mexican American issues, El Paso, Juarez, and the Borderland Region. This podcast initiative, originating from a shared interest between two professors, unfolds as an avenue to explore and shed light on cultural and historical themes significant to the Mexicayo tradition in Texas.
Carlos Aceves Yoloitzcalo: A Devoted Educator
Introducing Carlos Aceves Yoloitzcalo, a Texas resident since childhood and a dedicated educator with a profound focus on Mesoamerican history and culture. His journey involves diverse educational roles, culminating in a mission to fuse ancient pedagogical methods with contemporary educational settings effectively. Carlos's extensive contributions encompass creating a charter school rooted in indigenous pedagogy, reflecting his unwavering dedication to Mesoamerican education.
The podcast delves into Carlos Aceves Yoloitzcalo's Shinashiki Project, which integrates indigenous pedagogy into childhood education, emphasizing a ceremonial framework for learning. Central to this project is a unique approach where students engage in a circle-based learning structure, symbolic of indigenous ceremonies. By incorporating Mesoamerican mathematics and language exposure, the Shinashiki Project aims to enhance students' overall academic performance and cultural understanding.
Cultural Intersections and Indigenous Traditions
Exploring the intersection of diverse indigenous traditions and cultural connections, the podcast sheds light on the deep-rooted heritage of various indigenous groups in Texas. From the Tiwah, Piros, to the Manzos, the region hosts a blend of ancestral legacies that converge within the Mexicayo tradition. The formation of calpulis like Donaltecali and Calpulita Alteca symbolize the collective efforts to preserve and honor indigenous identity amidst cultural resurgence.
The Importance of Nature Connection
Carlos Aceves Yoloitzcalo emphasizes the urgency of reconnecting with nature, highlighting the practical significance of indigeneity and its intrinsic connection to the environment for human survival. Through the Mexicaire tradition and the concept of original instructions, he stresses the necessity for humanity to rediscover its natural essence and harmonious relationship with the Earth. This imperative message underscores the essential role of indigenous teachings in guiding individuals towards sustainable coexistence with nature.
In this special episode, Tlakatekatl shares an interview he conducted with Carlos Aceves Yolohuitzcalotl back in 2019. Carlos has devoted his life to advancing Chicano/Mexicano Indigeneity in the U.S./Mexico Borderlands and developing the “Xinachtli Project” which incorporates indigenous pedagogy in childhood education. They also talk about his path to “la tradicion” known as Mexikayotl, and his involvement in founding the first Chicana/o/x indigenous centric groups in Texas known as kalpullis. Enjoy!
Ruben Arellano Tlakatekatl is a scholar, activist, and professor of history. His research explores Chicana/Chicano indigeneity, Mexican indigenist nationalism, and Coahuiltecan identity resurgence. Other areas of research include Aztlan (US Southwest), Anawak (Mesoamerica), and Native North America. He has presented and published widely on these topics and has taught courses at various institutions. He currently teaches history at Dallas College – Mountain View Campus.
