2021 CLAAS CANADA conference cycle
The lack of archeological context is one of the most dire consequences of the lack of knowledge and appreciation of archeological heritage, whether in Guatemala or in other countries of the Maya Area. This presentation emphasizes on the relationship that currently exists between the population and the archaeological heritage, as well as its involvement in looting, illegal trafficking, collecting and even in the re-use of Pre-Columbian heritage in contemporary activities. It also highlights the role that La Ruta Maya Foundation performs as the only non-governmental organization that seeks to recover, and repatriate, objects that were exported illegally in past decades. As part of its work, the Foundation makes efforts to educate and raise awareness against looting and illegal trade by registering the objects as Cultural Heritage of the Nation, by opening the collection for research, and by organizing thematic exhibitions for the public. In this way, artifacts that lost a large percentage of their historical information, due to their lack of context, have a new voice and can still be part of the regional history and geography
