“Africans in Mexico left their cultural and genetic imprint everywhere they lived. In states such as Veracruz, Guerrero, and Oaxaca, the descendants of Africa’s children still bear the evidence of their ancestry. No longer do they see themselves as Mandinga, Wolof, Ibo, Bakongo, or members of other African ethnic groups; their self identity is Mexican, and they share much with other members of their nation-state.

Yet their cultural heritage has not entirely disappeared. Some African traditions survive in song, music, dance, and other ways. But much has changed since slavery ended, and it is difficult for a small minority to maintain its traditions in a constantly changing society.”

-Historian Colin A. Palmer, “A legacy of slavery”

The goal of this OER is to explore how Afro-Mexican populations utilize food items while providing a scientific context to the biomolecular composition and and health benefits connected to the food.

We have included a suggested lesson plan to utilize the information.
BSAA Mexico Food lesson plan