Sylvia, the group’s un-elected representative speaks of the need for "indigenous people to have a dignified place in society so that our children can feel proud to come from an indigenous group and will continue their culture". The Pope’s recognition of indigenous culture and values this summer was a significant step, "because for 500 years the church has refused to recognize us. So at least we have our own saint now…" But in the face of increasing poverty in Mexico - the basic income has devalued by 47% in the last year - the future place of the Mazahua within Mexico’s mestizo society remains uncertain.