Our Vision

Indigenous communities with a strong culture, capable of creatively facing the inevitable confrontation with modern society (technology, markets, economic systems, etc.), without losing their roots, and contributing, with their values and knowledge, to the construction of a national identity.

A quality rural life, infused with new challenges and with opportunities for training and advancement for those that remain in rural areas.

ASUR's  Mission

Implementation of sustainable ethno-development projects, designed to improve the economic conditions and opportunities for indigenous communities through development of their own cultural resources.

Anthropological research (ethnological, ethno-historical, ethno-musical, and archaeological) centred in the rural areas of the department of Chuquisaca and neighbouring departments, to revive indigenous cultural expression and encourage its diffusion.

Geographic and Ethnic Area of Work 

ASUR works with Jalq’a indigenous communities (located to North-west of the city of Sucre in the cantons of Quila Quila, Maragua and Potolo, Oropeza Province), and indigenous peoples of the area known as Tarabuco (east to South-east of Sucre in the canton of Icla, Zudañez Province).  All are significant micro-regions of the Chuquisaca Department.  More recently, in 2004, ASUR began artisan development with the Ayllu Calcha and the Ayllu Tinkipaya, as well as artisan tourism development in the communities around the Salar de Uyuni, all located in the Department of Potosi. 

Cultural Activities of ASUR 

ASUR actively undertakes a variety of cultural activities:

• Creation of the Museum of Indigenous Art, to preserve the memory of the communities. The Museum has become a significant tourist attraction.  It is sustained without any external financing.
• Presentation of expositions in rural communities, other cities within Bolivia, and internationally.
• Publication of studies about textiles, ethno-history and ethnology.
• Anthropological workshops.
• Promotion of indigenous festivals, dances and music.
• Development of materials on regional cultures for various university departments and other entities that request them (especially educational establishments).