COVID-19: Rarámuri artisans make masks to prevent coronavirus

is a company established in Chihuahua that gathers indigenous artisans from the Sierra Tarahumara who are now manufacturing masks to prevent COVID-19 since it is one of the most requested medical supplies during the pandemic.

According to a statement from the Chihuahua government , the masks are made by Rarámuri people. And have decorative elements from their culture in addition to “being functional, for several trials have tested their impermeability.

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According to official information provided daily by deputy Health minister Hugo López-Gatell , wearing a mask is advised for those who are sick. Nevertheless, one of its objectives is to reduce the amount of saliva that is expelled from the mouth and to protect the nose.

The statement includes the testimony of Marcelina Bustillos , a Rarámuri artisan who tailored this protective gear. Bustillos urges the population to be more aware and to take care of themselves and mainly to obey authorities during the contingency .

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Likewise, Sinibí Jípe posted on Facebook that their masks are made with a fabric that is 65% polyester and 35% cotton , are waterproof , washable , and hence, reusable . In turn, they have a slit to mount a filter. In addition, they say that each mask undergoes a final process in which they are disinfected in their workshop.

Sinibí Jípe works with a social focus that seeks “social well-being and the comprehensive development of its artisans.” Hence, one of its objectives is to survive with the sale of these masks for they also tailor clothing for women, men, and children in order to generate jobs for the artisans.

The masks are available on their Facebook profile.

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