Event Recap: Tour of Mexican Cultural Institute

On Tuesday, November 10 AAFSW members and friends of AAFSW (including the Ambassador from Guinea, and diplomats and guests from 14 different countries) enjoyed a private tour of the Mexican Cultural Institute in Washington, DC.  The Mexican Cultural Institute is housed in a historic building on 16th St, NW and served as the Mexican Embassy from 1921-1989.  

The mission of the cultural institute is to share Mexican heritage and culture with people in the United States and those visiting Washington, DC.  Murals by Roberto Cuevo del Rio wrap the 4-story staircase and colorfully and thoughtfully share Mexico’s deep history and vibrant culture.  A highlight of the tour was the large altar commemorating the Day of the Dead (Dia des los Muertos).  This year the altar is dedicated to the people who died from COVID-19 and offered visitors the option to leave notes for their dead. 

Through the end of this month there are two special exhibits: Oaxaca, Lo Tiene Todo (Oaxaca, it has everything), an exhibition of Oaxacan art and culture and Hecho en Oaxaca (Made in Oaxaca) featuring Contemporary Oaxacan artists Amador Montes, Sabino Guisu, and Bayrol Jiménez.

If you missed out on AAFSW’s tour this month, I encourage you to visit the Mexican Cultural Institute on your own time.  It is free!  For more information, check out: https://instituteofmexicodc.org/