International Women’s Day, celebrated every March 8, is a moment to acknowledge the resilience, achievements, and struggles of women throughout history. It is a day that highlights past victories and underscores the ongoing efforts needed to secure true gender equality worldwide.
The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 1900s, rooted in labor movements and socialist activism. The first official observance occurred in 1911, with women in countries such as Germany, Austria, and Denmark rallying for better working conditions and voting rights. March 8 became the official date following the role women played in the Russian Revolution of 1917, leading to the United Nations’ official recognition in 1975. Since then, the day has grown into a powerful global movement advocating for women’s rights and social justice.
Women’s Impact on History in Tulum and the Maya World
Tulum has long been shaped by powerful women whose contributions span from the ancient Maya civilization to modern leadership in the region. These women—warriors, leaders, scholars, artists, and activists—have played a key role in shaping Quintana Roo’s cultural and historical landscape.
María Uicab: The Queen of Tulum
Among the most notable figures in Tulum’s history is María Uicab, a revered Maya priestess and political leader in the 19th century. During the Caste War, a long and brutal conflict between the Maya people and the Mexican government, she became one of the most influential figures of the Speaking Cross movement, a religious-political resistance against colonial forces. María Uicab not only held spiritual authority but also commanded military influence, making her one of the few female leaders in a predominantly male-led rebellion. Her role in defending Maya traditions and sovereignty cements her place as a symbol of resilience and leadership.
The Woman of Naharon: A Testament to Ancient History
Discovered in an underwater cave near Tulum in 2002, the Woman of Naharon is one of the oldest human remains found in the Americas, dating back approximately 13,600 years. This discovery provides crucial insights into early human migration and settlement patterns in the region. While little is known about her personal story, her existence highlights the long-standing presence of women in the development of civilization in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Contemporary Women Making a Difference in Tulum
In recent years, the role of women in Tulum has evolved significantly, with many assuming leadership positions in governance, environmental activism, and cultural preservation. In a historic milestone, four women were elected as community leaders in different localities of Tulum: María Guadalupe Cocom González in Punta Allen, Rosa María Tun Puc in Macario Gómez, Francisca Tun Caamal in San Juan de Dios, and María Sandra Dzib Canul in Sacamucuy. Their election reflects the growing influence of women in local governance and their ability to effect meaningful change in their communities.
Women Preserving Maya Identity and Culture
Marisol Ceh Moo: Defending Maya Literature
Marisol Ceh Moo, a celebrated Yucatec Maya writer, has dedicated her life to preserving the Maya language and literature. As the first woman to write a novel in Yucatec Maya, her work bridges the past and present, ensuring that Maya traditions continue to thrive in modern narratives. Her efforts in linguistic preservation serve as an inspiration for future generations to embrace their heritage.
Esther Poot Cahum: Advocating for Indigenous Education
As a Maya educator and cultural advocate, Esther Poot Cahum has been instrumental in promoting linguistic policies that protect and strengthen Maya identity. Through her work, she ensures that the younger generations continue to speak and practice their ancestral language, reinforcing the importance of indigenous heritage in Mexico.
The Unseen Work of Women in Maya Communities
While history often highlights political leaders and scholars, the everyday contributions of women in Maya communities are just as significant. Women have long been the guardians of traditional knowledge, passing down herbal medicine, textile craftsmanship, and oral history. Midwives, healers, weavers, and community elders play an integral role in sustaining Maya identity, yet their work often goes unrecognized. Honoring these women is essential in preserving the fabric of Maya culture.
Women in Business and Sustainability in Tulum
Today, many women in Tulum are leading the way in sustainable business practices, entrepreneurship, and tourism. Women-run cooperatives are promoting fair trade, supporting local artisans, and ensuring that Tulum’s economic growth benefits the community equitably. Many have taken on environmental advocacy, protecting the region’s fragile ecosystems from the effects of rapid urbanization and unsustainable tourism practices. Their leadership is crucial in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Empowering Women for a Better Future
Honoring women’s contributions is not just about looking back at history—it is about fostering change for future generations. Supporting local women-led initiatives, amplifying indigenous voices, and advocating for gender equality in leadership and education are all steps toward creating a more inclusive society. Every individual has a role to play in advancing the rights and opportunities of women in Tulum and beyond.
At The Tulum Times, we believe that recognizing and empowering women is essential for the progress of our communities. Women in Tulum, whether as political figures, writers, artisans, or business leaders, have been at the forefront of change, often against great adversity. While significant strides have been made in gender equality, challenges persist, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that all women—past, present, and future—are given the recognition and opportunities they deserve. We encourage ongoing efforts to support and elevate the voices of women in all sectors of society.
We invite our readers to join the conversation and share their thoughts on our social media platforms. Let us know how we can continue to highlight women’s invaluable role in Tulum and beyond.
