Etymologically, tequio comes from the Nahuatl tequitl—“work,” “task,” or “tribute”— Tequio is an Indigenous system of collective work in Mexico—especially in Oaxaca—through which members of a community contribute unpaid labour to build, maintain, or repair infrastructure and services that benefit everyone (paths, water systems, schools, plazas, community radios, fiestas, etc.). It is usually obligatory for adult community members, is organized through assemblies and authorities, and is considered both an honour and a civic/communal duty rather than “volunteer work” or a wage relation.
Illustrator: Omar Valencia Pérez