Quechua is a language that comes down to us in Cuzco from ancient times and it still is found as a strong pillar. It is called a sweet language because when it is spoken it sounds colorful and happy.
Even through some years ago Quechua speaking parents did not teach their children this beautiful language because of the discrimination they faced when they would speak it or when they would mention themes referring to it, it has still prevailed. These days learning Quechua is considered essential in our primary and secondary schools as well as in our universities.
Nevertheless, last year the ex administrator of the office of Tourism, Education, Culture and Environment of the provincial government of Cuzco, Martín Romero Pacheco, said amongst a confusion of words that “Quechua was a cancer”. He made this statement in the Third National Encounter on Culture. Afterwards he was forced to resign his position.
Because of his words, movements began in social media in which Cuzco’s youth began to rebel and raise up this language that belongs to them as a legacy. A march on the municipality of Cuzco was carried out and it was a great surprise that a lot of youths and children came together to raise their voices in support of Quechua.
Many statements and thoughts have risen from the depths of our people and even those who did not know how to speak Quechua have fought for it. They lifted up all the anger that they had inside because of their parent’s decision to not teach them Quechua.
There is a project called “The Quechua Hour” that is promoted by he Great Academy of the Quechua Language in Cuzco. The project is carried out every Sunday in Cuzco’s Plaza de Armas, its main square, to spread knowledge of Quechua and support its use.
In the plaza are carried out mini classes in Quechua, from the most basic so that all people, visitors and Cuzqueños who wish can learn. There is no cost associated with the event. You can just gather round and enjoy.
Just as this program attempts to promote this language that belongs to all of us as a legacy, it is also important to learn the basics so you can begin to share it with all people.
