Mexico celebrates indigenous peoples' day with vibrant 'Mega Calenda' parade

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - AUGUST 9: Hundreds of people participated in the annual "Mega Calenda" parade along Reforma Avenue in Mexico City on Saturday, marking the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.Dressed in colorful traditional clothing and masks, members of Indigenous communities danced and marched to celebrate their heritage and raise awareness of their ongoing struggles for rights, justice, and cultural preservation.Mexico recognizes 68 Indigenous groups, including the Nahua, Maya, Zapotec, and Mixtec, who constitute approximately 21.5% of the population, according to 2020 data.The day serves as both a celebration of Indigenous cultures and a call to address challenges such as discrimination, land rights disputes, and social inequalities.Across the country, cultural events—including traditional dances, music performances, and art exhibitions—were held to honor Indigenous traditions. Government institutions and NGOs also organized forums to discuss Indigenous rights, environmental protection, and anti-discrimination efforts.The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, observed annually on August 9, was established by the United Nations to promote and protect the rights of Indigenous communities worldwide.(Footage by Alejandro Aguilar Lopez/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)