Ñukanchik Llakta Wawakuna is a group where we use the art of dance to educate by different branches as well as to strengthen our identity and most of all, the excellence of our first Andean immigrants’ generation.

Wawakuna (children) not only focuses on the kids, but also educates the parents about their rights as immigrants and to remain proud of being campesinos (peasants) or indigenous.

Wawakuna believes in the importance of preserving our cultural identity. Wawakuna uses the tool of art such as painting, writing, dancing and singing to express our emotions, express the injustices occurring in the community, build leadership for parents and kids, and applying it as part of healing.

We are the first Andean dance organization with a feminist practice in Queens. We are migrant communities from indigenous and peasant families. Through education of traditional folkloric dance and music and gender justice, we (1) Amplify our role in preserving our Andean Ecuadorian indigenous culture and cultivating our ancestor’s roots and pride in Queens; and (2) Create the foundations for girls and young Andean women to take on leadership roles in their communities, and to challenge patriarchy both in our own culture and wider society.