The Archives and Special Collections (ASC) department members recently reupholstered the chairs in the research room. The project spanned over four days and the transformation is stunning! The fabric covers were replaced and researchers will experience a comfortable chair due to the additional cushion support. The colorful handwoven fabric depicts cosmogram symbols, which were handcrafted by the non-profit organization Weaving for Justice.
Dr. Christine Eber, a steering committee member indicated that Weaving for Justice is made up of an “all-volunteer, non-profit organization based in Las Cruces that works in solidarity with Maya weaving collectives in Chiapas, Mexico. The organization’s goal is to assist the members of the collectives to continue living on their ancestral lands in sustainable ways that respect their lands, language (Tsotsil), and traditions. In addition to selling textiles for the weaving collectives, Weaving for Justice works with the weavers to educate the public about their lives, struggles, and contributions to a sustainable and just society.”
If you would like to browse or purchase weavings, the organization has a store is located at First Christian Church (across from Las Cruces High School) as well as online. There is a variety of weavings, and you will be amazed at all the selection ranging from tortilla warmers, bookmarks, and children’s cloth books!
Please feel free to visit the ASC reading room and check out our newly reupholstered chairs! Stay tuned for other updates to our reading room!
The finished product! Fabric hand-woven by the Weaving for Justice organization. Photo by Teddie Moreno.
Collage of ASC team members who assisted in the project. Photos by Jennifer Olguin and Teddie Moreno.