Why is it important to translate the coloring book into Mayan languages?
Each of the world s languages represents an individual way of thinking about ourselves and our environment. Knowledge of one s indigenous language contributes to a sense of self esteem, identity and belonging. Thus, respect for and use of traditional Mayan languages, which have richness and nuances of expression apart from Spanish, are still other important goals of Pro Arte Maya. Throughout the world, many indigenous languages are disappearing. By providing a book with text in Mayan languages, we help, even if in a small way, to encourage their continued use. Teachers using the coloring book in Consejo Maya bilingual schools are pleased to have an additional educational resource in their Maya language. How can a coloring book, used with a related educational program, connect the arts and crafts traditions to issues of preserving the environment and consumerism? By encouraging and helping children to analyze the role of arts and crafts in their lives many issues can be raised, from pre
