Afro-Indigenous harvests: Cultivating participatory agroecologies in Guerrero, Mexico

Abstract

This study embarks on an in-depth examination of “Afro-Indigenous communities” in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, scrutinizing the intricate relationships between the hacienda system’s historical legacies and local agroecological practices. Employing a blend of historical–geographical analysis, ethnography, and participatory methods, we expose how ethnoracial identities, particularly Afro-Indigenous, are intrinsically intertwined with agricultural practices, power relations, and social dynamics. Our methodology embraces mixed styles and voices to convey the diversity of experiences, while remaining anchored in thematic sections: the historical hacienda system and contemporary local structures; ethnoracial identities and their interplay with agricultural practices; power dynamics, leadership, and gender roles; and adaptability in the face of external challenges. Through vivid narratives and case studies, we delineate the enduring echoes of the hacienda system within present-day sociocultural structures and agricultural practices. Moreover, we critically examine how historical foundations shape power hierarchies, leadership, gender roles, and land stewardship, and the subsequent impact these elements have on the adoption of agroecological practices within Afro-Indigenous groups in their respective localities. The article concludes by emphasizing the imperative of a nuanced, context-sensitive, and adaptable approach, one which honors and engages the rich Afro-Indigenous heritage while acknowledging the multifaceted historical and contemporary local dynamics for cultivating sustainable agricultural transformation.