The Jungle Journal hosted its first short documentary screening and paneled event, titled A Conversation on the Lacandona Jungle, at Casa Bosques Librería in the vibrant Roma neighborhood of Mexico City. The event brought together experts, researchers, and advocates to explore the evolving challenges facing one of North America’s last remaining rainforests.

Lacandona, a mini-documentary chronicling the Yuk Najkin family—a Lacandona Maya family that has lived for generations in the heart of the rainforest—offers an intimate glimpse into their world. Through their story, the audience is invited to experience the jungle through the family’s eyes and understand the growing threats facing their culture and community. Filmed in the Lacanjá Chansayab community, nestled within the Montes Azules Biosphere near the Mexico-Guatemala border, the documentary captures both the beauty of the region and the urgency of its preservation.

Following the screening, a dynamic panel discussion unfolded, offering deeper insights into the documentary’s themes. Panelists shared their work on wildlife conservation, Maya language preservation, and the cultural significance of cacao in Mesoamerican traditions. Their perspectives intersected with broader discussions on conservation, indigenous rights, and the impacts of deforestation, drawing from both academic research and lived experience.

Over the past five decades, the Lacandona Jungle has undergone profound changes. Outside stakeholders encroaching on land and resources, agricultural and commercial expansion, organized criminal networks, and increasing Western influence have not only contributed to deforestation but have also disrupted the cultural and spiritual systems of local indigenous communities. Practices and beliefs that once deeply connected these communities to the jungle are now under serious threat.

The evening began with a screening of Lacandona, a short documentary directed by our founder, Sara Lopez, with cinematography by Danila Iliushchenko. One of the film’s most poignant moments comes when Chansaap, a member of the Yuk Najkin family, reflects on the evolving relationship between his community and the land. Walking through his cornfield, he explains the traditional Milpa system—a centuries-old Maya agricultural practice rooted in communal collaboration. But as the scene unfolds, he describes how this once-shared practice has shifted toward privatization, pushing the community away from its cooperative roots.

The short documentary also touches on broader changes, from religious shifts to lifestyle transformations, underscoring how external influences have reshaped daily life. Yet at its core, Lacandona is a testament to the Yuk Najkin family’s resilience. Despite these profound changes, one value remains unshaken: family unity—an enduring pillar of Lacandona culture. Chansaap expresses hope that future generations will rediscover their heritage and reclaim their traditions.

After the screening, the panel discussion began, highlighting the panelists’ groundbreaking research, community partnerships, and direct action, all of which have played a pivotal role in preserving the jungle’s ecosystems and advancing advocacy and policies that protect both the environment and the indigenous communities who call the jungle home.

Alan Monroy Ojeda, an ornithologist whose research centers on raptor species, particularly the majestic Harpy Eagle, and conservation strategies to protect these apex predators and their ecosystems in the Lacandona Jungle.

Pablo Castro Hernandez, a sociologist who has spent over a decade traveling to Maya descendant communities in Chiapas, Mexico to preserve and revitalize indigenous languages, ensuring that younger generations maintain access to their linguistic heritage.

Maria Alejandra Forero, a cacao researcher and co-founder of JANGALA who is currently working with midwives in the region, studying the historical and cultural significance of cacao within indigenous traditions.

The discussion illuminated the intersection of cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and the resilience of the dependent indigenous communities residing in the Lacandona Jungle: the Lacandon Maya, Tzeltal, Ch’ol, Tzotzil, and Tojalabal. Panelists emphasized the vital role of indigenous knowledge in safeguarding biodiversity and the urgent need to support these communities. Promoting more political representation, legal protections, and economic empowerment and autonomy through their tourism industries. The later involving the direct managing of tourism initiatives, and receiving fair economic benefits. The conversation underscored that the Lacandona Jungle is not just an ecological treasure but a living cultural landscape shaped by the wisdom and traditions of its people.

The event served as a poignant reminder of the pressing need to protect both the natural environment and the cultural traditions that have sustained it for centuries. We hope that A Conversation on the Lacandona Jungle will continue to inspire dialogue, foster action, and strengthen collaborations in the ongoing efforts to preserve one of the world’s most biodiverse and culturally rich regions.

This event was made possible with the generous support of POXNA, whose dedication to preserving tradition brought a meaningful touch to the evening. Guests enjoyed handcrafted Pox cocktails, a tribute to the centuries-old Mesoamerican tradition of Pox—a sacred corn spirit with origins dating back to the Maya civilization.

A Note from The Jungle Journal: Although participants are not direct descendants of the communities mentioned, their involvement with this rainforest and the communities who safeguard it speaks to the dedication of their time, energy, and lives to this Jungle. This panel was never intended to speak on behalf of any community, but rather to create a space for dialogue, awareness, and inspire action.