Mixteco, Tlazoyaltepec in United States

Introduction / History

Mixtec groups live in the mountains of Southern Mexico. They maintain a pre-Columbian language and culture. They have their own language, Tlazoyaltepec Mixtec, though most also speak Spanish. Most live in southern Mexico, but about one-third of them are in the United States for work.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Those who live in the US are usually farm workers. The culture of the Tlazoyaltepec Mixtec is both hierarchical and patriarchal. Those who move to the US usually maintain very strong cultural, family, and financial ties to their communities of origin. Most are oral learners and do not read or write in their own language.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The primary religion practiced by the Mixtec peoples is a form of folk Catholicism. They revere Catholic saints, nature spirits and their ancestors, whom they believe are the guardians of Mixtec ways. They have regular fiestas to honor and revere their gods and patron saints.

What Are Their Needs?

The Tlazoyaltepec Mixtec people need to put their trust and identity in the hands of the loving God of Creation who sent his son to make it possible for them to enter the Kingdom of God.

Prayer Points

Pray for a "Book of Acts" type of movement to Christ among the Tlazoyaltepec Mixtec.

Pray God will have mercy on the Mixtec, doing whatever it takes to place them in a position to receive him.

Ask God to open the hearts of the Tlazoyaltepec Mixtec to the gospel.

Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Text Source:   Joshua Project