PlacemakingUS, in collaboration with Placemaking Mexico, is dedicated to sharing our explorations and insights across our cultures and countries.
Oaxaca
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July 25 - 31, 2024
Oaxaca, particularly during the Guelaguetza festival, offers valuable lessons in placemaking that can be applied globally.
Oaxaca's cultural heritage foster a strong sense of community and place. The Guelaguetza festival celebrates indigenous and adapted cultures through dance, music, traditional attire, and food, promotes local pride and reinforces cultural identity, essential elements for creating resonant and attractive places. This time of year brings Oaxaca's diverse bio-regional cultures and village life to the central city creating a people-led sense of ownership, inclusion and belonging that resonates with Martin Luther King Jr.'s quote, "Those who love peace must learn to organize as effectively as those who love war." Economically, the festival demonstrates how cultural events can stimulate local economies by attracting tourists, supporting local businesses, artisans, and vendors, and creating sustainable economic opportunities. The transformation of public spaces, from streets to plazas, for the festival showcases the flexible and adaptive use of public areas to accommodate various activities and foster community interactions. Temporary installations and decorations during the Guelaguetza inspire creative activation of spaces for specific events and celebrations. Moreover, the festival serves as an intergenerational educational experience, promoting understanding and appreciation of Oaxaca's rich cultural heritage and facilitating cultural exchange by attracting international visitors. This enhances global awareness and fosters a sense of global community. The term "Guelaguetaza," translates to mean "Mutual Aid," and Oaxaca is a critical place for exploring the balances of sustainable development, through its agricultural, and architectural practices and customs. Resilient Oaxacan communities enmeshed in local traditions and self-sufficiency are seeking ways to help them withstand economic and social challenges through solidarity and diversity. The rich artistic heritage of Oaxaca, reflected in public murals and artisanal markets, shows how integrating art into public spaces can enhance the aesthetic and cultural value of an area. The infusion of natural elements in public spaces, buildings and the preservation of surrounding environs contributes to the well-being of the community, creating healthy, livable environments. A holistic approach, considering economic, social, cultural, and environmental factors, is key to successful placemaking, as demonstrated by Oaxacan communities. By learning from Oaxaca's example, placemakers can learn more about vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities that celebrate cultural heritage and foster a strong sense of place. |
Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on availability and unforeseen circumstances. Participants are encouraged to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and any personal items they may need for the weekend.
Please note that the price does not include international transportation or any additional expenses incurred outside of the mentioned inclusions. Participants are responsible for obtaining necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, and travel insurance.
Please note that the price does not include international transportation or any additional expenses incurred outside of the mentioned inclusions. Participants are responsible for obtaining necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, and travel insurance.
Donate to Scholarships
Help us send someone on this trip -- PlacemakingUS provides discounted and free learning scholarships to those who need them. Your donation helps send a placemaker to one of our online or in-person convenings. Since 2022, we provided over $5,000 in learning sponsorships.
Help us send someone on this trip -- PlacemakingUS provides discounted and free learning scholarships to those who need them. Your donation helps send a placemaker to one of our online or in-person convenings. Since 2022, we provided over $5,000 in learning sponsorships.