Oaxaca’s Guelaguetza Festival Profits to Aid Hurricane Recovery

• Profit from the Guelaguetza festival to support hurricane recovery.
• Governor Jara creates a fund for Guelaguetza profits.
• The festival showcases Oaxaca’s rich cultural diversity.
• Projected profits from the Mezcal Fair also aid renovations.
• Hurricane Erick caused extensive damage in western Oaxaca.

Hurricane Erick’s Impact on Oaxaca’s Communities

Oaxaca Governor Salomón Jara recently announced that profits from the upcoming Guelaguetza festival will be dedicated to aiding the recovery efforts in areas devastated by Hurricane Erick. The festival, which is recognized as Oaxaca’s premier Indigenous cultural celebration, will take place throughout July and draw attention to its significance during these challenging times. In a heartfelt social media post, Jara expressed that the funds raised from ticket sales will be channelled into rebuilding the affected regions, emphasizing an ongoing commitment to support those impacted by the hurricane.

Guelaguetza Festival to Aid Reconstruction Efforts

Jara declared the establishment of a Guelaguetza fund, indicating that proceeds from the festival’s two major events, known as “Los lunes del cerro,” will be redirected to these important recovery initiatives. He stated, “Our sisters and brothers are not alone, and we will not abandon them,” demonstrating the state government’s resolve to help communities get back on their feet. The annual Guelaguetza event highlights Oaxaca’s rich cultural identity through traditional music, dance, food, and craft, making its success even more pivotal for the local economy right now.

Financial Support for Recovery Amid Challenges

In addition to the expected 40 million pesos (approximately US $2.1 million) generated by the Guelaguetza, Jara also mentioned that profits from the upcoming Mezcal Fair will contribute further to the reconstruction fund. Scheduled to take place from July 18-29, this fair is anticipated to draw 132,000 attendees and generate over 31 million pesos (around US $1.6 million). Still, Jara warned that the cost of rebuilding will likely surpass the total funds raised from these festivals, indicating the magnitude of the disaster’s impact throughout the state.

Severe Damage Reported After Hurricane Erick

Hurricane Erick had intensified to a Category 4 storm before it struck the coast of Mexico but weakened to a Category 3 by landfall on June 19. The National Hurricane Center reported that the storm hit the western region of Oaxaca, between popular resort cities Acapulco and Puerto Escondido, with winds reaching 125 mph. Local authorities reported extensive damage, including landslides, blocked highways, and flooding, affecting roughly 277,000 homes, some of which were left without power for hours. Approximately 25% of the 10,000 homes in impacted areas were reported as completely destroyed, revealing the severe need for a robust recovery strategy.

Community Response and Recovery Efforts

In subsequent updates, Jara commended the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local agencies working tirelessly to restore essential services and provide aid to affected communities. The commitment of local employees, particularly those from the Potable Water and Sewage Services Operating System, has been crucial. They promptly assessed water supplies in the devastated areas and set up temporary shelters for families whose homes had suffered severe roof damage, distributing food relief packages to over 500 families in dire need.

Roads to Recovery with Hopeful Tourism Strategy

Amid these recovery efforts, Jara faced challenges, such as communication issues resulting from damaged roads, particularly in San Francisco Ozolotepec where residents have been isolated due to landslides. The only road into the area was left unpassable, necessitating airlifts for humanitarian aid conducted by the Army. Nonetheless, the state tourism office confirmed that several coastal towns that experienced less destruction were open for business, aiming to encourage tourism in the region as part of its recovery strategy from the hurricane’s aftermath.

In summary, the profits from the Guelaguetza festival are set to bolster recovery efforts in Oaxaca following the destructive path of Hurricane Erick. Governor Jara’s commitment underscores the community’s resilience amidst adversity, with combined efforts highlighting a path forward for restoration and rebuilding. As Oaxaca gears up for the Guelaguetza and the Mezcal Fair, the focus remains on supporting those who have suffered and revitalizing the local economy.