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ABOUT OUR MISSION



Unpacking the Loophole: What the CDCR's Disapproval Process Means for New Tonalpohualli Publications
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) recently added the Mexican Count of Days for the Year 13 House by Kurly Tlapowaya and Ruben Ochoa to its Centralized List of Disapproved Publications. This publication, based on the ancient Tonalpohualli calendar, issues a new Tonalamatl every year and has become a vital tool for teaching incarcerated men and women about the sacred calendar. The ban has sparked frustration among educators and advocates, inclu

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 283 min read


Reviving Heritage and Healing: A Wellness Routine for Returning Citizens Through Mexica Practices
Returning to community life after incarceration brings many challenges, including healing from trauma and reconnecting with identity. For many returning citizens, rediscovering ancestral roots offers a powerful path toward balance and wellness. The Mexica Four Directions provide a meaningful framework to guide this journey. This wellness routine draws on the symbolism and energy of the Mexica directions to support healing and connection with heritage. Danzantes from Los Maceh

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 274 min read


Honoring Native American Heritage Month: The Fight for Spiritual Rights in California Prisons
November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of Native peoples across the United States. While this month highlights many achievements and contributions, it also brings attention to ongoing challenges faced by Native American communities. One such challenge is the struggle for religious rights and spiritual freedom among Native American prisoners in California. Native American men gather together

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 263 min read


Challenging Spiritual Discrimination in California Prisons After Ban on Mexica Sacred Calendar
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) recently added the Mexican Count of Days for the Year 13 House by Kurly Tlapowaya and Ruben Ochoa to its Centralized List of Disapproved Publications. This decision bans the Mexica sacred calendar from prison libraries and inmate access. For many, this is more than just a book ban—it is a direct attack on cultural identity and spiritual practice inside prison walls. Xochitl, a former inmate and founder of Fue

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 253 min read


United Riderz and Eloquence Car Club Brings Joy with Toy Drive at Alondra Park
Author: Jennifer Xochitl Lacy On Sunday, November 23, 2025, Alondra Park became the heart of community spirit as two local car clubs, United Riderz and Eloquence Car Club, joined forces with other numerous car clubs, Meedia Magic as well as Gardena nonprofit, Fuego Sagrado Botanica, to host a toy drive. The event brought together car enthusiasts and families alike, creating a festive atmosphere filled with generosity and goodwill. Participating car clubs: 13 Gents, Carson

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 254 min read


The Month of Quecholli
Mexican Count of Days- Ruben Ochoa and Kurly Tlapoyawa November 23, 2023 Kurly Tlapoyawa www.mexicanewyear.com The feast of Kecholli is named for the roseate spoonbill, a bird with resplendent pink feathers that migrates south into Mexico during the winter months. The word Kecholli can be translated as “rubber neck” in the Nawatl language. The feast was held in honor of Kamaxtli/Mixkoatl, the lord of the hunt, who is depicted in the codices painted i

Xochitl Quetzal
Nov 246 min read
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