**Ruperta Bautista Wins 2024 Premio de Literaturas Indígenas de América**
Esteemed Tsotsil poet Ruperta Bautista Vázquez has been awarded the 2024 Premio de Literaturas Indígenas de América (PLIA) for her poignant collection of poetry, “Presagio lóbrego”. The announcement was made on Tuesday, August 27 by various cultural and educational institutions in Mexico, including the University of Guadalajara and the Secretariat of Culture of Jalisco, among others.
“Presagio lóbrego” is a powerful work written in the Tsotsil language, capturing the essence and wisdom of Bautista’s indigenous heritage. The judging panel, consisting of esteemed individuals from diverse indigenous backgrounds, praised the work for its expression of cultural vitality and its poignant meditation on the loss of elderly knowledge keepers.
The judges highlighted that Bautista’s work reflects the enduring vitality of her native language and culture, skillfully navigating the complexities of translation while preserving the profound elements of her heritage. Angélica Ortiz López, one of the judges, remarked on the poem’s focus on contemporary anxieties regarding the loss of elderly wisdom.
In response to her win, Bautista expressed that her poetry channels deep sorrow and a sense of orphanhood, dedicating the collection to mothers whose lives were prematurely ended and who left behind rich cultural legacies. She underscored the challenges faced by indigenous women in a discriminatory society, highlighting the significant achievement of her literary contributions.
The award will be formally presented at the Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL) on December 6, where the winner will receive a recognition and a financial reward.
**Additional Coverage: Spain Unveils Program for FIL Guadalajara 2024**
Spain has revealed its extensive program for the 2024 Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL). The announcement detailed various cultural events and literary gatherings aimed at celebrating the rich literary tradition of Spain and fostering international literary dialogue. The program includes book presentations, symposiums, and workshops featuring notable Spanish authors and intellectuals. The presence of Spain as a featured country will enrich the fair’s diverse offerings, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to engage with Spanish literature and culture on an international stage.