The Mazahua People

The Mazahua people are one of 62 indigenous groups found in Mexico. Although Mazahua is their native language, they are quickly being assimilated into the national culture. Today, many of the young people only speak Spanish. The Mazahuas are generally farmers subsisting on small plots of land. Their main crop is corn used for making tortillas, the main staple in their diet. Lack of employment has forced many to migrate to the cities, northern border areas, or the United States to find work as vendors, masons, or domestic employees. Most children have access to primary school, but very few go on to finish the secondary level. Half of the population lives in extreme poverty on less than $5 a day.

The Mazahua people are known for their gift of hospitality and service, close family ties, and community, therefore; visitation is a very important aspect of our ministry. Unexpected visitors drop by daily and it may take half a day just to visit one person.