Otomí

Otomí is a group of indigenous languages spoken in central Mexico. These languages belong to the Oto-Manguean language family and are spoken by the Otomi people, who have inhabited central Mexico for centuries. The term Otomí also refers to the people themselves and their distinct cultural identity. There are several variations of the Otomi language, with some being mutually intelligible while others are distinct dialects or languages. Historically, the Otomi people played a significant role in the pre-Hispanic and colonial periods of Mexico, often serving as important intermediaries and allies.

The Otomi languages are characterized by their tonal nature and complex verb morphology. While spoken primarily in the states of Hidalgo, Mexico State, Querétaro, Guanajuato, Puebla, and Veracruz, Otomi speakers can also be found in other parts of Mexico and in the United States. Efforts are underway by various organizations and communities to preserve and revitalize the Otomi languages, as many of them face endangerment due to factors such as assimilation and the dominance of Spanish. These revitalization efforts include language education programs, cultural events, and the creation of linguistic resources. The Otomi culture encompasses a rich tradition of textiles, music, dance, and religious practices that are closely tied to their linguistic heritage.