Empowering Lao Ethnic Communities through Culture, TAEC Luang Prabang.

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This project supports Laos’ rural ethnic communities in the revitalization and sustainability of their traditional arts through livelihoods development, outreach, and diversity awareness education. TAEC, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center in Luang Prabang is facilitating and managing this project in Lao ethnic communities.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Laos is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia, but most visitors, and locals themselves, are not really aware of this. Additionally, uncontrolled or poorly managed tourism and a rapid influx of new wealth often weaken community ties. As a result, rural ethnic groups have turned from practicing their traditional arts and skills to seeking alternative ways to generate income, often missing opportunities to promote and transmit their culture.

How will this ethnic empowerment project solve this problem?

In order to prevent the irretrievable loss of this knowledge among the most vulnerable populations, we provide new markets for ethnic minority handicrafts, a way to document their traditional knowledge, and diversity education programs that promote cultural pride for youth. TAEC is the only museum of its kind in Laos providing wide-ranging programs for communities as well as exhibitions for local and international visitors.

Potential Long Term Impact through this project

Future generations of Lao will gain increased access, understanding, and appreciation of traditional crafts and knowledge. The heritage and textile sectors in Laos will grow and provide sustainable income alternatives. Cultural and artisanal heritage in Laos will be preserved and promoted.

Ethnic Culture Project Message, TAEC

These are vibrant cultures, and though they will change and evolve and perhaps be almost unrecognizable in 50 years, for the most part they will remain intact. We hope to celebrate [that] culture.

– Tara Gujadhur, Co-Director and Co-Founder of TAEC

 Donations needed, visit project funding site