About
Unearthing Mexico's Roots, One Story at a Time
At IndigenousMexico.org our mission is rooted in the preservation of history and the revelation of untold stories. We believe that every voice, every lineage, and every struggle should not only be heard but also archived and honored. In a world where history can easily be rewritten or forgotten, we serve as a custodian of truths—especially for Indigenous Mexican communities.
By meticulously researching, curating, and presenting these narratives, we aim to ensure that future generations not only know these stories but also understand the struggles and triumphs that have shaped them.
Our work is not merely about recounting the past; it's about safeguarding a legacy, so that the struggles and victories of these communities never slip away from history.
Our founder, John P. Schmal, is more than an historian and genealogist; he's a guardian of Indigenous Mexican heritage. Raised in the diverse tapestry of Los Angeles, California, John is a proud alumnus of Loyola-Marymount University and St. Cloud State University, earning dual BA degrees that blend Geography, History, and Earth Sciences into a rich academic soil from which his lifelong passion would grow.
From the rugged landscapes of Chihuahua and Nayarit to the rich cultural tapestries of Zacatecas, Jalisco, Aguascalientes, and Guanajuato, John has dedicated decades to exploring the genealogical imprints and Indigenous histories that make up modern-day Mexico. Recent years have also seen him turn his keen eye towards the lineages of California Mission Indians, an extension of his quest to make the past palpable and preserve it for future generations.
With groundbreaking works like "Mexican-American Genealogical Research: Following the Paper Trail to Mexico" and "The Journey to Latino Political Representation" under his belt, John was recognized for his outstanding contributions with the 2018 Conference of California Historical Societies Award of Merit in the Scholarship Award category. Yet, his commitment isn't bound by books or accolades.
John’s engagement with the community mirrors the ethos of IndigenousMexico.org. He's a lifetime honorary member of the Genealogical Society of Hispanic America (GSHA-SC) and serves on the board of The Society of Hispanic Historical Ancestral Research (SHHAR). His dedication is also evident through his captivating presentations, where topics range from the nuanced landscapes of Mexican Genealogy and Indigenous Mexico to the intriguing world of German Genealogy.
Above all, John is the heart and soul behind IndigenousMexico.org, your go-to online resource for historical insights and census data on the Indigenous communities of Mexico.
“The history of Indigenous Mexico is not just a tale of the past; it is a living dialogue that continues to shape our collective identity, one story at a time.”
