Safeguarding programme for Hezhen Yimakan storytelling
Selected in 2025 on the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices
At the time of the initial inscription, only five storytellers were still capable of performing certain Yimakan cantos, and the traditional practices associated with the Hezhen oral narratives faced several threats. In this context, a well-structured programme has engaged families, communities, schools, local authorities and the State in safeguarding this living heritage element. Its integration into schools has sparked increased interest among younger generations, both in oral storytelling and in their involvement in the safeguarding of the element. Beyond intangible cultural heritage specifically, the integration of the practice into formal education has also promoted the transmission of the Hezhen language. The gender dimension has also been included in the safeguarding interventions, which have promoted greater participation by women through expanding and strengthening the transmission of knowledge related to Hezhen Yimakan storytelling in the recreated settings.
