On April 18, 2018, the Lelé dolls were officially recognized as cultural heritage of the state of Queretaro, a testament to their significance in the cultural and artisanal landscape of Mexico. Originating in the municipality of Amealco, Queretaro, the production of these dolls has since expanded beyond its initial geographic confines. Today, they are crafted in Queretaro as well as Mexico City, Hidalgo, and Veracruz (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores, 2023).
Their reach, however, extends far beyond Mexican borders, gaining international acclaim. In an initiative to promote Querétaro's rich cultural heritage globally, a 13-foot Lelé doll has been showcased in four cities across three continents starting in 2023 (El Universal, 2019).
While the designation of the Lelé doll as cultural heritage and its international promotion serves to celebrate and preserve the artisanal traditions of the indigenous communities of Queretaro, we should also question the impact of this growing popularity on the artisans themselves. The transition of the Lelé doll from a local handicraft to a globally recognized icon raises questions about the authenticity of cultural expressions in the face of commercialization and tourism. Furthermore, it raises the question whether the commercial success of the Lelé dolls translates to actual economic benefits for the indigenous women artisans responsible for their creation. This is crucial in a market where the demand for authentic cultural expressions often leads to commercialization that may not prioritize the artisans' welfare (Aguirre Mendoza & Borja Cruz, 2020).