Xcaret, Riviera Maya, November 20, 2024. As part of Mexico’s National Awards for Sustainable, Inclusive, and Fair Tourism—spearheaded by the Riviera Maya Hotel Association, the Mexican Caribbean Hotel Council, and The Seas We Love—Grupo Xcaret’s “Manos Xuaves” project has been honored with the Award for Best Initiative Promoting Diversity and Inclusion. This recognition celebrates the work of Manos Xuaves in fostering the integration and visibility of individuals with hearing impairments within the Xcaret México Espectacular show.
Manos Xuaves is a unique initiative that, since its planning began in 2019, has worked to ensure inclusion and accessibility in one of Xcaret’s most iconic performances. Through a collaboration with the Manos Especiales Association, the project—which is approaching its one-year anniversary—has provided a meaningful platform for two deaf performers. Night after night, they interpret the song “México en la Piel” in Mexican Sign Language during the show. This effort not only enriches the experience for all visitors but also highlights and celebrates the inclusion of deaf individuals in cultural tourism.
The “Best Initiative Promoting Diversity and Inclusion” category, in which Manos Xuaves was recognized, honors initiatives, companies, and destinations committed to creating a tourism sector that is more accessible, fair, and equitable for everyone. In this regard, the award highlights the importance of integrating inclusion and diversity into the tourism sector, inspiring the industry to build a more inclusive and accessible tourism landscape in Mexico.
“Receiving this award fills us with pride, as Manos Xuaves represents our dedication to seeing the capabilities—rather than the disabilities—of the Group’s team members. We want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy and feel part of our cultural legacy. Inclusion is a fundamental pillar at Grupo Xcaret, and this award reinforces our commitment to continuing to promote accessible and respectful tourism for all,” commented Miriam Alonso Pacheco, Deputy Director of Sustainability and Chair of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Committee at Grupo Xcaret.
This recognition is part of a series of awards celebrating the leadership and commitment of Mexican individuals, companies, organizations, and communities in promoting tourism that is more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable. Mexico’s National Awards for Sustainable, Inclusive, and Equitable Tourism comprise nine categories focused on key themes such as environmental conservation, inclusion and diversity, equitable economic development, and the connection between tourists and their destinations.
Through Manos Xuaves, Grupo Xcaret reaffirms its mission to provide unique tourism experiences that promote inclusion and strengthen the bond between culture and visitors, while remaining committed to a more inclusive and equitable future for tourism in Mexico.
