I am sure that the pandemic has caused them much distress! Peru’s core cultures and indigenous knowledge about ways to live life among the Quechua communities needs more attention. The Quechua culture prioritizes helping neighbors out. Education is becoming more accessible as foreign diplomats and organizations like the Peace Corps raise awareness and provide donations.
Over the past few decades, the descendants of ancient cultures have needed to adjust their lifestyles in order to keep up with the countries’ growing economy and access to resources such as food, water, healthcare and education. The Peruvian government has recognized the loss of indigenous knowledge and traditional heritage. However, they alone are not enough to add effort to the cause! Foreign diplomats (such as U.S. diplomats) are actively working towards helping indigenous communities by providing them with access to adequate healthcare and education.
Smaller communities have historically relied on each other through difficult times. I am sure that the pandemic has caused them much distress! Places like Cusco, the magnificent mountain capital city of the Incan empire, relies heavily on tourism. However, Quechua communities have survived for centuries on indigenous knowledge and a culture of helping neighbors out. We must place the same value on preserving indigenous lanaguages and cultures in Peru as we do on preserving the Incan ruins that inspire so much awe in tourists.
