Explore Chiapas!

January 1, 1994 – The arrival of the Zapatistas, and the takeover of the municipal hall in San Cristobal de las Casas.

On November 10th, the Latino Cultural center hosted a discussion about Chiapas, Mexico featuring speakers from Xanvil – a center that advocates for cultural and environmental preservation for the indigenous communities of Chiapas. Panelists included UIC Anthropology Professor Joel Palka, Xanvil founder Adriana Fabiola Sanchezand Executive Director Ian Hollingshead. Panelists discussed some of their work and research into the rich cultural history of the region, inviting students to participate through upcoming study abroad opportunities.

A surprising moment in the program came when panelists presented a slideshow that included a famous Zapatista photograph by Antonio Turok, and visitors recognized it as the model for a scene, The Zapatistas, in the LCC mural “El Despertar de las Américas,” in which the watch marks the time set for the occupation of San Cristobal Municipal Hall.