Belizean Maya Featured in Documentary on Tradition and Survival

A DW documentary titled “Belize: We Are Maya!” by Katja Dohne, brings to life the challenge of the Maya descendants in Belize who are fighting to preserve their traditions.

The 42-minute documentary touches on Mayan efforts to preserve their culture, the rainforest, ancient knowledge, and the fight against deforestation.

The film introduces healers Maria and Aurora Garcia, farmer Marcelino Teul, and student Frank Tzib, who are leading their preservation efforts.

Garcia preserves her knowledge of medicinal plants during a period when the rainforest faces threats from deforestation and wildfires.She is also the elected chairperson of the Itzamna Society at Elijio Panti National Park.

Meanwhile, further south, Mayan farmer Teul worries about his maize harvest. Maize is his main food and income source.

Twenty-three-year-old Frank Tzib is dedicated to reviving the nearly forgotten Mayan script. He strives to breathe new life into this ancient practice.

The documentary shows that despite challenges, Frank, Maria, Dominga, and Marcelino remain determined to preserve the legacy of their ancestors and a key part of Belize’s cultural identity.