Dance as identity, resistance and power : danza indígena de La Huasteca, México

Author

Janet Rachel Johns, California State University, Monterey Bay

Date

2003

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Teacher Education

Abstract

This research imposes a point of view that contradicts a history of conquest and the eradication of culture. Throughout the centuries the voices of marginalized groups have been silenced. Through this research the voices of the indigenous dance communities of the Huasteca are heard and their messages of identity, resistance and power communicated through their dance. Many of the ancient indigenous dance traditions of the Huasteca are in danger of being erased due to political, economic, religious and social pressures. This study is an attempt to rescue and preserve these traditions in order for them to be passed down to future generations. This action research documents the traditional indigenous danzas of five communities of the Huasteca region of Mexico and investigates the importance and significance of these traditions to the indígena. The facilitators, elders, musicians and danzantes of the Huasteca, who are part of this research, communicate important messages through their danzas. Their message is one of hope, respect and understanding -- a sharing of their indígena culture through dance and music.

Comments

Thesis (M.A.) Institute for Advanced Studies in Education

Recommended Citation

Johns, Janet Rachel, "Dance as identity, resistance and power : danza indígena de La Huasteca, México" (2003). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 200.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes/200