On this episode of Tamarindo, we are joined by Lily, the founder of Zapotec Travel by Lily, a sustainable travel company working with 100% small indigenous-owned and women-led businesses and communities outside of Oaxaca City.

We explore the indigenous roots of the Dia de los Muertos celebration, anti-indigeneity and discrimination in Mexico, and reconnecting with roots, ancestors, and home. 

Jose Richard Aviles guest co-hosts this episode while Brenda is away. José Richard Áviles is an Urban Planner, Social Worker, and internationally touring Performance Artist native to South Central. Áviles work explores the relationship between space, place, and body. 

About Lily: Lily was born and raised in Santa Monica, California, home to the largest Zapotec migrant community in the U.S. After spending her summers in Oaxaca with her parents in the dream home they built, Lily rematriated to Oaxaca in 2013. It was then she realized the lack of representation of indigenous people, especially women, that existed in the travel industry in Oaxaca. Zapotec Travel now curates intimate experiences for responsible travelers alongside the community. 

Learn more about Lily and her curated experiences here: https://linktr.ee/zapotectravelbylily

Ana Sheila mentioned  The Social Change Ecosystem Framework 

Lily mentioned the following Oaxacan resources:

The Zapotec Weavers

Zapotec Heritage

Morenita Zapoteca

Casa Balgih

Tamarindo is a lighthearted show where hosts Brenda Gonzalez and Ana Sheila Victorino discuss politics, culture, and self-development. Join us as we delve into discussions on race, gender, politics, representation, and life! You can get in touch with us at www.tamarindopodcast.com

Brenda and Ana Sheila are executive producers of Tamarindo podcast with production support by Karina Riveroll of Sonoro Media. Jeff Ricards produced our theme song. If you want to support our work, please rate and review our show here. 

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Tamarindo’s mission is to use laughter and conversation to inform, inspire and positively impact our community. Learn more at tamarindopodcast.com