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Tahlequah, OK - Alejandra Garcia, Mayan scholar and professor of the Autonomous University of the Yucatan, will discuss the meaning of the forest for the Yucatec Mayan on Friday, April 19 at 6 p.m. at the Cherokee Nation Restaurant in the O-Si-Yo Classroom. In the Montes Azules (Blue Mountains) of Chipas, Mexico, the indigenous people seek to maintain their homes in the area. However, the tropical forests are not the only thing endangered.

Within the Yucatan region of Mexico, people speak indigenous languages usually referred to under the collective term as "Mayan," but their languages (such as Quiche, Mam, and Tzeltal) and way of life are threatened. As a board member of the Pan American Indian Humanities Center, Alejandra Garcia contributes by preserving the indigenous languages and culture of the Mayan people of Mexico.

The beaches of Cancun in the Yucatan may be best known to Americans, but join us Friday, April 19 at 6 p.m. to learn about the native peoples who were the first ones to travel the tropical forests and warm beaches we have come to know as tourist destinations. The cultural event is free of charge and open to the public. If you have further questions please call Anne Woodward (PAIHC Conference Coordinator) at the Cherokee Heritage Center at 918-456-6007 or toll free, phone: 888-999-6007.

For online information visit or send an email to info@cherokeeheritage.org