In the heart of New Mexico, the Academy for Technology and the Classics (ATC) hosts an extraordinary event called Querencia. This event beautifully merges education and tradition, offering students and the community a chance to engage in New Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Joaquin Martinez, an educator passionate about preserving New Mexico’s history, leads this initiative, highlighting its significance to both students and locals.
Querencia is not just an event; it’s a cultural immersion. Set on March 21st at the ATC campus, participants can expect to see the fruits of student labor as they showcase skills in building adobes and creating retablos. The term ‘Querencia’ itself echoes a deep connection to land and culture, embodying a place of love and heritage. At ATC, the landscape offers panoramic views of the Ortiz Mountains and beyond, serving as a natural classroom for historical appreciation.
The event promises a hands-on experience. Attendees can engage in activities like making adobes, cooking local dishes and baking in an authentically made horno. The aroma of fresh bread is sure to fill the air, and the musical performance of Mariachi Estrella is sure to bring happiness.
Central to Querencia is the intricately designed Pueblo, a project that young students at ATC have built over time. Engaging in this annual construction revitalizes traditional knowledge, such as adobe-making with straw and sand. This exercise not only anchors students in cultural history but also fosters a profound connection between generations, linking elders and youth through storytelling and hands-on learning.
The ATC Mountain Club, that includes inspiring students like Baern, Iver and Isabel, further embodies this community spirit, regularly contributing to local efforts such as supporting elders and preserving New Mexico’s historical settings. Their efforts extend beyond the classroom, illustrating the importance of community service in cultivating an engaged, culturally aware young populace.
This unique initiative has received commendations not only for its educational benefits but for actively keeping New Mexico’s heritage alive. Support from the Santa Fe Community Foundation and The City of Santa Fe Economic Development Department emphasize the significance of these cultural exchanges, reinforcing the value of shared history and tradition.
As Querencia draws near, anticipation builds for a day filled with learning, music, and a celebration of New Mexican roots. Set amidst the rugged yet beautiful landscapes, this event is a testament to the power of education and tradition in shaping vibrant and interconnected communities. Registration for Querencia can be found here; https://forms.gle/FzVSJkY7VTV8VE7g7
Step into a world where tradition meets education at Querencia, an upcoming event on March 21, 2025 hosted by The Academy for Technology and the Classics (ATC) that celebrates New Mexico's history and cultural richness. Today we visited with Joaquin Martinez, history teacher, and members of ATC Mountain Club, Baern, Iver and Isabel. "Service is our nature" is more than a slogan of the ATC Mountain Club - it's about impactful service to community and keeping culture and traditions alive through Querencia.
