Arts & crafts for migrant and indigenous children

I’m Paulina, and my heart is deeply moved. I’ve rekindled the belief that even the smallest efforts, when connected to greater collective struggles, can inspire young people to care for and belong to the natural spaces we’re trying to write about."

There was a magical moment I’ll always keep close: the children were carving their own stamps to illustrate the story we created together. With the hill rising behind us, I looked up from the table and saw the entire group etched into one beautiful memory, from a little girl just seven years old to one of the young women helping facilitate the workshop. All of us were gathered around, working, laughing, sharing, admiring each other’s creations. It reminded me of the deep power that art and collective projects can hold.

I’m part of the Naguchi project, along with Alberto Pabian. Our work is about giving voice to stories through collaborative, hands-on printmaking. We had the chance to join the Strengthening My Roots program that Una Mano para Oaxaca has been leading for months in the Mixtequilla region. I’m so grateful to have been welcomed into this land and this process. The project as a whole is truly exciting, and our workshop was beautiful.

Our colleague Sara shared with us both the work being done in the community and her personal relationship with the hill. That connection, and the reflection it sparked, became the foundation for the collective story we created with the children of Mixtequilla.

At first, I was a bit worried that not many children had come, but those who did were fully committed. It wasn’t just about writing a story; over four days, they came back again and again to illustrate it until it was finished. The small group size gave us the chance to work closely with each child, to connect more personally, and to witness their creativity and conversations unfold in the most touching ways.

In May, we’ll be printing the book and holding a community presentation. We’re planning to walk up the hill with the young illustrators to celebrate. You’ll get to see the final result soon and I know, just like us, you’ll see yourselves in it. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll be moved too.