The History of Kichwas in Chicago
Inti Raymi at a Glance
Although KCC was not formally established until 2022, Kichwas have been building community in Chicago since the late 1990s, laying down roots in the Windy City. From the beginning, they came together through shared experiences—playing sports, organizing events for children, and, most notably, hosting an annual celebration of Inti Raymi, the most important cultural event for Kichwas. Community members collaborated to plan and carry out a Chicago version of Inti Raymi, a sacred festival that honors and gives thanks to the Sun for nurturing the crops and sustaining life. The three-day event features spirited soccer tournaments for men, basketball competitions for women, vibrant musical performances, and traditional dance showcases. Long before KCC existed in name, its spirit was alive in the hearts of those first Kichwa migrants. That spirit continues to grow today, strengthened by generations of shared culture, resilience, and unity.
Every year, the pushak—the leader responsible for guiding the planning and execution of Inti Raymi—takes on a significant responsibility that lasts for an entire year, until he appoints a new pushak for the following cycle. The pushak and his wife often rely on committees formed by community members to support the many aspects of the three-day celebration, from organizing sports tournaments and coordinating showcase logistics to overseeing cultural rituals and preparing food for hundreds of attendees. Over the years, Inti Raymi in Chicago has grown into the largest celebration of its kind outside of Ecuador, drawing participants from across the United States and even abroad. The earliest recorded pushak in Chicago dates back to 2000. Since then, with knowledge passed down from previous years, increased resources, and advancements in technology, Inti Raymi has continued to evolve—deepening the roots of the Kichwa community in the city of Chicago.
Chicago Pushaks
The pushaks carry out a very important role every year and set the tone of the community. They are responsible for leading the community into the Inti Raymi festivities. With the support of other community members, they plan, organize, and execute the 3 day long event with sports tournaments, musical performances, and dance performances. Inti Raymi has grown year after year with the support of organizations, technology, and innovative ideas that cultivate our culture and teach traditions to the newer generations. We thank all leaders who have taken responsibility each year to ensure our roots and traditions as Kichwas from Ecuador are honored and maintained in a home away from home. Without them, Kichwas residing in Chicago would not have had the opportunity to form a strong community here in the city. Some KCC members have had the honor of serving as pushaks and now serve as leaders and members within KCC.
*Only KCC members have been listed. Non-KCC members have been excluded for privacy reasons. However, they may request to be listed.
2026
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2025
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2024
Daqui Lema & Alicia Lema
2023
Jairo Chalan & Melissa Maigua
2022
Byron Montalvo & Magola Lema
2021
CANCELLED: COVID
2020
CANCELLED: COVID
2019
Edison Maigua & Tamia Muenala
2018
Roberto Picuasi & Marisol Moran
2017
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2016
Moises Aguaña & Soledad de la Torre
2015
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2014
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2013
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2012
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2011
Wiliam Pineda & Hilda Lema
2010
Cesar Burga & Marina Romero
2009
Orlando Maigua & Jonayda Santillan
2008
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2007
Jaime Farinango & Maricela de la Torre
2006
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2005
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2004
Jaime Perugachi & Miriam Teran
2003
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2002
Humberto Romero & Matilde Andrango
2001
Rodrigo Pineda & Ruiz
2000
First Inti Raymi - Group of Friends/No Pushak