Weaving the Threads: Labor Protection of Maya Weavers in Guatemala
Iris Luo
Weaving the Threads is a written thesis focusing on indigenous Maya weavers in Guatemala and labor exploitation in mass garment production. It explores handmade garments as a research medium to analyze the relationship between the design and production of textiles and patterns. Centering indigenous rights, the analysis highlights the chronic exploitation of indigenous weavers as embedded in colonial history and multi-dimensional racism stemming from the nation-state form. The analysis also addresses the legislative dilemma surrounding intellectual property law for indigenous knowledge (e.g., weaving methods and patterns) in Guatemala. It further considers the actions and movements taken by Maya weavers, the border indigenous community, and their allies to resist this status-quo. By doing so, the study aims to promote ethical practices and a sustainable future.
