Mink'a

Mink'a is a traditional Incan concept of communal work or collaboration among community members for the betterment of the community. It is like when you and your friends work together to clean up a playground or help a neighbor with their yard work.

In the Incan community, everyone had a job they were responsible for, like farming or weaving. However, there were times when one person needed help with their job or a big project needed to be done for the whole community. When this happened, everyone in the community would come together for mink'a.

During mink'a, tasks were assigned based on people's strengths and abilities. For example, someone who was good at weaving might take charge of making blankets, while someone who was strong might be assigned to carry heavy stones for building. This way, everyone could contribute in a meaningful way.

Mink'a wasn't just about getting things done, it was also a time for community-building and socializing. People would come together, share food, and work side-by-side. It was a chance to catch up with old friends, make new ones, and strengthen the ties that bound the community together.

Even today, mink'a is still practiced in some parts of the Andes. It is a reminder of the importance of working together for the greater good and the power of community.