If you follow Mayelli Ayala on social media, you will see a beautiful display of Danza Azteca Videos, anti-racist advocacy, and links for accessible health screenings. She's the first to say what the dances mean to her.
"There are many reasons why I feel proud, but most importantly, empowered, in practicing the traditional Conchero ways of Danza Azteca Chichimeca," she tells POPSUGAR Latina. "Simply the connection you make with the instruments around you that leads you to feeling the ultimate freedom, through your steps and your prayers. Being able to have that connection makes me feel proud and honored that I can experience that." Her advice to others? "My biggest recommendation to other Latinxs searching for clues of their own Indigenous backgrounds is to have conversations with their elders. Asking questions gives so much information. I hope that I can continue sharing my life with others to let people know: WE ARE STILL HERE."
Where to find her:
@mayelliquetzaliztli
