Tales From Aztlantis

Episode 5: Juan Tejeda & Danza Azteca

Apr 20, 2021
Join Juan Tejeda, a retired professor and Chicano activist, as he dives into the rich history of Danza Azteca and his transformative experiences studying with the renowned Juan Luna Cárdenas. They discuss the evolution and controversy surrounding danza styles, the importance of decolonizing traditions, and the influence of the Chicano movement on cultural exchange. Tejeda shares insights on the role of danza in reconnecting Chicanos to their roots while navigating the complexities of identity and solidarity within indigenous communities.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Chicano Movement Roots And Dance Leadership

  • Juan Tejeda joined the Chicano movement at UT Austin and helped found Xinachtli, the first traditional Mexica-Azteca Conchero group in Texas.
  • He served as jefe segundo for about nine years and co-founded Conjunto Aztlan and Aztlan Libre Press.
INSIGHT

Segura's Role In Danza's Northward Spread

  • Danza spread into US Chicano communities through figures like Andrés Segura who linked La Tradición de los Concheros to local groups.
  • Early ceremonial trips (e.g., Chalma) deeply shaped Texas groups' practices and identities.
ANECDOTE

Studying With Juan Luna Cárdenas

  • Tejeda took two courses from Juan Luna Cárdenas at UT Austin in spring 1979: Sociedad Azteca and Azteca-Nahuatl.
  • Luna used his own books as required texts and the classes were introductory but formative for students exploring Mexica history and language.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app