Among those given thanks were Danielle Strickland, the founder of CODENI and large mover and shaker behind this group, as well as Meghan Collins Sullivan who wrote the grant proposal for the sewing machines, and Kevin Kovaleski, a photographer who was here this past week focusing on documenting these Otomí women. We arrived to find Felipa grinding fresh cumin...
Bernadita and Alberta making corn tortillas...
and Maura and Nicasia stirring mole in an enormous ceramic bowl.
Above Danielle is speaking with Juana, one of the leaders of MNINI and owner of the house where we meet every other Thursday.
Edith
Rosa and Francisca joking with each other after dressing in their traditional clothes
Sofía, Rosa and Maura waiting to begin their ceremony
Meghan, Sofía and her son Jorge
Preparation of food
Ruth (who has been a large supporter of MNINI and offers literacy classes for the women three times a week), Rosa, Francisca and Bernadita
The lawyer who helped the group become recognized by the state, handing over the official papers to Rosa. This lawyer is indigenous as well and left Chiapas as a 13-year-old to seek out a better life for himself.
With official recognition, the promise of sewing machines and their first big order for Twisted Goods in Canada nearing completion, we are full of hope that success will continue for these women.
