Seed of Resistance: Maize in Mesoamerica

Maize, a sacred gift from the god Quetzalcoatl, has been at the heart of Mesoamerican civilizations for millennia, shaping not only diets but also societal structures, rituals, and cultural identity. I explore how maize continues to be a powerful symbol of resistance in contemporary Mexico, particularly through its role in the fight against globalization and genetic modification. Likewise, I highlight Mexico's recent ban on genetically modified (GMO) corn as a pivotal moment for food sovereignty, indigenous rights, and environmental justice. By analyzing both historical and contemporary cultivation practices, along with the photographic work of David Lauer, which documents the resilience of indigenous maize cultures, I demonstrate how maize serves as both a living cultural artifact and a political tool of resistance in the face of global challenges like climate change and corporate agricultural control. Building upon the concept of México Profundo by Guillermo Bonfil Batalla, I argue that maize is not only central to Mexico's physical sustenance but also to the soul of its indigenous communities, offering pathways to biodiversity conservation and cultural preservation. My overall research examines how cultural values shape our understanding of the world and challenges us to reconsider what truly sustains us.