Check out this amazing special photo essay by photographer Carol Foote who visited with the Sadhus at the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious pilgrimage held only once every 12 years.
Read MoreA Glimpse into Oaxaca City’s Guelaguetza Festival
The annual Guelaguetza festival is one of the largest Indigenous celebrations in Mexico, preserving Oaxaca culture and tradition.
Women performing at the Guelaguetza Festival. Jen Wilton. CC BY 2.0
Oaxaca City’s Guelaguetza festival is a celebration of community and strength that occurs annually on the two Mondays after July 16. Also referred to as “Los Lunes del Cerro,” the festival has been a longstanding tradition in Oaxaca culture that predates Spanish colonization of the land in the 16th century. Although the cultural significance of the festival has shifted over the years, its core value of unity remains deeply rooted in the celebrations.
Prior to Spanish invasion, the festival had close ties to the religious celebration of the goddess of maize Centéotl in order to ensure a successful harvest season. While Centéotl still has a place in modern Guelaguetza celebrations, after Spanish colonization, festivities began to integrate Christian elements such as the feast day Our Lady of Mount Carmel which occurs on July 16.
The term “Guelaguetza” means “reciprocal exchanges of gifts and services” in the Zapotec language, which is the overarching structure of the festival. Historically, during Oaxacan celebrations, those attending would each bring some sort of item that was needed for the celebration such as food or supplies. These “guelaguetza” allowed the celebration to exist and exemplified the value of collaboration.
During the Guelaguetza festival in particular, inhabitants of Oaxaca’s eight regions unite, bringing their own unique traditions and knowledge to share with the larger community.
A couple dancing at the Guelaguetza Festival. Larry Lamsa. CC BY 2.0
Particularly, an exchange of culture occurs through song, dance and clothing. Individuals from each of the eight regions spend months prior to the festival perfecting song and dance routines to perform for the festival's attendees. After performing the number in their region's traditional clothing, they toss significant cultural items into the crowd. This exchange allows Oaxaca’s sub-cultures to not only exist but to thrive.
In addition to culture, there are plenty of other exchanges that occur during the festival, such as sharing traditional food that is prepared by inhabitants of each region and selling artisanal crafts in the city center.
The Guelaguetza festival has been traditionally celebrated on Cerro del Fortín, or Fortin Hill, in Oaxaca. In the 1970s an amphitheater was built specifically for the celebration. Seating 11,000 people, the amphitheater was built directly into a hill so that those looking down at the stage are able to clearly view the city below.
Oaxaca is home to sixteen different Indigenous groups in addition to its eight regions, so there is a vast array of cultures within the larger Oaxaca culture. Annual Guelaguetza celebrations have preserved these cultures over the years despite colonization and increasing tourism in the region, ensuring that Oaxacan traditions and stories will be preserved for coming generations.
Zara Irshad
The Tapati festival on Easter Island is a colorful celebration of Rapa Nui heritage. It is enjoyed through traditions such as the singing performance and flower crowns seen here. Ministerio de las Culturas, las Artes y el Patrimonio. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
Easter Island’s Tapati Festival: A Celebration of Rapa Nui Tradition
When most think of Easter Island, located nearly 2,200 miles off the coast of mainland Chile, the first thought that comes to mind is, “How did those heads get there?” While the giant stone structures known as moai are quite fascinating, they are only one of the island’s impressive features. With its westernized name, it is easy to forget that the island, known as “Rapa Nui” to its natives, has been populated for centuries. The Tapati festival was born to celebrate that heritage.
The Tapati festival began in the 1970s as a way to educate the world about Rapa Nui’s people and their customs. More importantly, it is a way to reconnect children on the island with their heritage and identity. In the last few years it has grown in popularity, and it is featured on many tours to the island. This year it was rescheduled due to the pandemic, but the celebration is set to happen early next year.
The two-week festival consists of music, dance and ancestral sporting events like swimming, canoeing and horse racing. The competitions take place between two clans in the spirit of the island’s Polynesian history. The events take place all over the island from day to night with the people of Rapa Nui emphasizing their heritage through face painting and dress. Each group also nominates a woman who receives points from the winners of the physical competitions, and the two compete to become the queen of Tapati at the end of the celebration.
Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater on Easter Island. Iko. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
What Tapati is most noted for is the triathlon, the Taua Rapa Nui. This three-pronged competition is held at the Rano Raraku, a massive volcanic crater that many of Easter Island’s moai sculptures were carved from. The events that make up Taua Rapa Nui are the Pora, the Aka Venga and the Vaka Ama.
The Pora is a canoe race in which solo competitors in traditional outfits and body paint paddle across the crater lake on reed boats. Upon reaching the other side, they immediately transition into the Aka Venga, a running race made more difficult by the need for contestants to carry two banana bunches on their shoulders. This event is notorious for taking out racers.
Competitors practicing for the Pora. Alvaro Valenzuela. CC BY-NC 2.0.
Another impressive event is the Haka Pei, where dozens of men cloaked in only body paint and a cloth race down the steepest hill on the island in sleds made of banana tree trunks.
Beyond physical competitions, there are many ancestral skills competitions like cloth making from mahute tree bark, stone and wood carving, and clothing designing. Another event is a cooking competition where women of the island face off with their creations of traditional Rapa Nui dishes. Additionally, there is an agricultural showcase in which farmers compete to see who has the biggest and heaviest products. As it is a two-week event, countless different cultural traditions are highlighted throughout the festival.
For visitors, the grand celebration of Rapa Nui and its people is a valuable way to respectfully learn about and appreciate islanders’ traditions. It is a culturally immersive experience, and the people on the island know that their heritage is worthy of recognition. Often, island cultures get isolated from global conversations as the beautiful landscapes distract from traditions. Festivals like the Tapati ensure that Rapa Nui’s residents are never forgotten.
Renee Richardson
Renee is currently an English student at The University of Georgia. She lives in Ellijay, Georgia, a small mountain town in the middle of Appalachia. A passionate writer, she is inspired often by her hikes along the Appalachian trail and her efforts to fight for equality across all spectrums. She hopes to further her passion as a writer into a flourishing career that positively impacts others.
In Mexico, many meals are eaten on the street and provided by loyal street cart owners. They are a vital piece of countless Mexicans’ daily lives. Ted McGrath. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
The Mexican Street Cart: A Culinary World on Wheels
Mexican street foods, like birria tacos and elote, have gained widespread attention on social media recently for their complex flavors and vivid colors. Some dishes have gone so viral that Americans are driving hours in search of truly authentic carts! Mexican street carts are essential to the people of Mexico, providing a convenient meal during a busy day, and more are popping up all over the United States as well.
History of Mexican Street Carts
Mexican street carts and their cuisine all have personal and unique histories, but the origin of their popularity is seen during the country’s period of industrialization. As workers started flowing into Mexico’s cities, street carts followed to provide accessible and affordable meals. Their success is due in part to the tortilla, which originated from the Mayan civilization, because of its easy portability. Now that street carts have flourished beyond tortillas, residents of cities know of street carts as the norm. Citizens of Mexico City particularly love street carts, with over 75% saying they eat on the street at least once a week.
Importance of Street Carts
Vendor selling snacks like chicharrones and raspados. Eneas. CC 2.0.
With the history in mind, one can see why these street carts are so vital and necessary to the Mexican economy. Aside from the financial aspect, the carts have introduced the world to signature Mexican flavors and dishes. In its initial stages, the authenticity of Mexican food was lost abroad, but thanks to social media people know what to look for and can now cook authentic recipes even in their own homes. These dishes stem from the past and are often combined with family recipes to create unique experiences at every cart. Being run by individuals or families means that personal cuisine is shared with customers every day.
Dishes from Across Mexico
The range of Mexican street food is immense. This list provides five Mexican street foods that can be made at home or found near you.
Birria Tacos
Tacos de birria at a taco restaurant in California. Mmmyoso. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
The most well-known Mexican street food is the famous birria taco. Its origins trace back to Jalisco state and it is traditionally made with lamb meat. It is also commonly made with beef as it is cheaper and easily found throughout Mexico and the United States. Sometimes prepared in the form of a stew, birria tacos consist of marinated beef or lamb spiced with a combination of guajillo, ancho and chipotle peppers and spices like cumin, thyme, oregano, marjoram and cloves. The meat is simmered or pressure cooked with onions and tomatoes to create a thick broth, and this broth is what sets the birria apart from others. The corn tortillas are then dipped in the broth, fried, loaded up with shredded meat and decorated with onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The broth is then used as a dipping sauce for the tacos. Don’t let these dripping tacos intimidate you because the mess is well worth the experience for all their complex flavors.
Elotes
Another familiar dish is the elote, Mexican street corn. It comes in many varieties, from simple grilled corn on the cob to being flavored with queso fresco, mayonnaise, chile powder and lime. The off-the-cob version is known as esquites. Because the Mexican corn is firm, not sweet, these corn snacks boast a subtle earthy flavor. They are flavor-packed snacks perfect for transportation. A recipe for elotes can be found here.
Tamales
Vendor unveiling tamales ready to be sold. Dennis Schrader. Unsplash.
Tamales are a labor-intensive dish consisting of handmade masa harina, or corn flour, tortillas, shredded marinated meat, sauce and corn husks. The dough made of masa harina is left uncooked, topped with the long-stewed meat, and then wrapped in a corn husk to be steamed. The billowing steam along with the smells of onion, cumin and chiles immediately immerse those who try them into a unique experience. If it is your first time with tamales, beware, do not eat the husk! This traditional dish is made in large quantities, often 100 at a time, and gets eaten during holidays as well as every day from street carts.
Fruterias
Sweet fruit desserts with cream and berries. Ted McGrath. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
Mexican street carts also sell a variety of juices and fruits. Fruit cups are a signature staple in the warm climate, but they are not the typical fruit cups wading in syrup with neon cherries most of us think of. Typically found at “fruterias” or at Mexican juice bars, they are made from seasonal fruits cut into vertical spears, stacked into plastic cups, drizzled with fresh lime juice and sprinkled with Tajin sauce or with the liquid form of the popular condiment known as chamoy. The spicy-sweet combination can be found in every corner of Mexico and can be made at home with this recipe. For those who don’t like spicy with sweet flavors, fruterias also sell hand-squeezed juices, fruit desserts and custom drinks.
Street carts host some of Mexico’s most vibrant and signature dishes. The people who run them greatly contribute to the rapid spread of Mexican food around the world and are now essential even beyond the borders of Mexico. These street cart vendors are essential to the appreciation of Mexican cuisine, so remember, always tip!
Renee Richardson
Renee is currently an English student at The University of Georgia. She lives in Ellijay, Georgia, a small mountain town in the middle of Appalachia. A passionate writer, she is inspired often by her hikes along the Appalachian trail and her efforts to fight for equality across all spectrums. She hopes to further her passion as a writer into a flourishing career that positively impacts others.
10 Nigerian Artists Redefining Africa’s Music Scene
From influencing the #EndSARS protests to confronting the commodification of African culture, these artists have unique approaches to their art.
DaVido performing. Wikimedia user Rasheedrasheed. CC BY-SA 4.0.
Nigerian musicians have been spreading their influence all over the world for the past few decades. Following in the footsteps of Fela Kuti, contemporary artists experiment with a plethora of genres, fine-tuning their style as they progress. Renowned artists such as Burna Boy, DaVido and Cruel Santino are the driving forces of the Afrobeats movement, which combines African subgenres, American hip-hop, and R&B. Here are 10 influential Nigerian musicians to listen to.
1. Tony Allen
Tony Allen. Pierre Priot. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Tony Allen is the father of the Afrobeat genre. Allen passed away in April 2020 after releasing his final album, “Rejoice,” in collaboration with the late South African jazz artist, Hugh Masekela. Allen’s polyrhythmic drumming complements Masekela’s trumpet in this riveting jazz album. From his earlier days of performing with Fela Kuti to his more recent collaborations with Skepta and Oumou Sangare, Allen has pioneered the combination of American jazz with African beats. After a career which explored a multitude of scenes in the music world, Allen falls back into his Afrobeat roots in his very last album.
2. Naira Marley
Rapper Naira Marley is a contentious figure in Nigeria. Marley is known as a founder of the genre Afro-bashment, a combination of Caribbean influences, American trap rap, West African beats and British rap. Naira Marley is known for his controversial beliefs and ideas; in “Am I a Yahoo Boy,” he offers an unabashed critique of the Nigerian government, higher education and social conservatism. His single “Koleyewon,” which was released in December 2020, is a fast-paced trap song in Yoruba.
3. DaVido
DaVido performing. Wikimedia user Rasheedrasheed. CC BY-SA 4.0.
American-born musician DaVido is a world-renowned Afrobeats artist who synthesizes elements of R&B, rap and Afropop to build up his discography. His heavily auto-tuned vocals and his simple audio production make up his signature sound. DaVido’s most recent album, “A Better Time,” featured Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown and Lil Baby. Despite its famous featured artists, the album’s first track, “FEM,” received the most attention globally. “FEM,” which means “shut up” in Nigerian slang, was labeled the anthem of the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, which called for the dissolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad. Although the artist himself didn’t intend to express a politically charged message, he was nonetheless impassioned by his country’s fight against police brutality.
4. Cruel Santino
Up-and-coming musician Cruel Santino came to the world stage in 2019 with his debut album “Mandy & The Jungle.” Although he is one of the younger artists of the Nigerian music renaissance, Cruel Santino offers an impressive range of styles in his first album. The mellow, laid-back beat of “Sparky” contrasts with the country twang of “Diamonds / Where You Been.” His new single “End of The Wicked” showcases his maturation as a musician and an artist: the solemn piano is redeemed by a syncopated jungle beat, which accompanies his verbose rap.
5. Odunsi (The Engine)
Odunsi (The Engine) is a master of his craft. His discography is all-encompassing: church choirs and spoken word start off his 2018 album “Rare”; an orchestra plays over his verse in his greatest hit “Tipsy”; a vaporwave synth paints “Luv In a Mosh” blue. Odunsi (The Engine)’s album covers visually harmonize with his music. The ethereal blue moon in “Everything You Heard Is True,” which was released in May 2020, mirrors Odunsi’s experimentation with atonal melodies and distortions. On top of this hypnotic album, the musician released two singles in 2020: “Decided” and “Fuji 5000.” Both are dramatically different from each other; the only constant is Odunsi’s effortless flow.
6. Simi
Simi at NdaniTV. NdaniTV. CC BY 3.0.
Simi’s distinctly sweet voice is the honey that binds her music together. Less is more in her 2017 album “Simisola,” where her vocals and the acoustic guitar are the only elements that matter. The Nigerian singer started off as a gospel singer in 2008, but transformed her career in 2014 after the success of her singles “Tiff” and “E No Go Funny.” Simi released “Restless II” in 2020, which is a change of pace from her slow crooning. In an interview with OkayAfrica, the singer admits that, “This project is a risk as well, it’s even more of a risk because it’s R&B and Nigeria is not necessarily the biggest R&B market.” As Simi continues to dabble in hip-hop, she comes out with more powerful hits like “No Longer Beneficial” and “There for You.”
7. Niniola
Niniola. Wikimedia user Naijareview. CC BY-SA 4.0.
Often regarded as the “Queen of Afro-House,” Niniola is a global star who fights to find her footing as an empowered Yoruba woman. Niniola rose to fame from her 2017 hit “Maradona,” a seemingly light pop tune which dealt with the traumas of her upbringing. As a girl growing up in a polygamous household, Niniola experienced the double standards of a patriarchal family. Reckoning with her womanhood, Niniola recounts the experiences of a woman who is cheated on by her husband, woes which are usually kept secret. With an album and a couple of huge hits under her belt, Niniola comes back strong with her new album “Colours and Sounds,” which includes a refreshing take on reggae, pop and dancehall.
8. Burna Boy
Burna Boy’s album “Twice as Tall” covers a variety of topics, from how the artist grapples with the reality of colonialism to the frenzy of a night out. Burna Boy is a household name in the music industry, and this album attests to the singer’s mastery over songwriting and producing. In his song “Monsters You Made,” Burna Boy addresses Western imperialism and how its consequences are still felt today. His song “Alarm Clock” begins with voice recordings, opera and a saxophone, and quickly switches to an upbeat rap song.
9. Deto Black
Model and rapper Deto Black refuses to be labeled as an Afrobeats musician. The feminism and sex positivity of her music is obvious and brought to the forefront of her message as an “alté,” or alternative, artist. As a Lagos-based rapper who lived in the U.K. and the U.S. growing up, Deto Black navigates the different worlds by calling for gender equality in Nigeria.
10. Zlatan Ibile
Zlatan is a new Nigerian singer and dancer who found fame through his viral song “Zanku” (Legwork), which was accompanied by a famous dance. Since 2019, the singer has released three albums, started a record label, and released the successful single “Lagos Anthem.” “Lagos Anthem” is an energetic dance song with darker lyrics criticizing the government for its flawed policies.
These Nigerian musicians are beginning to impact American and British pop music. Although each of these individuals comes from a different discipline and background, they all have a commitment to experimenting in their craft. Some thrive in and renovate the Afrobeats movement, while others resist the umbrella term. The common ground between alté musician Deto Black’s tackling of gender inequality and DaVido’s propelling of the #EndSARS revolution is their commitment to the well-being of Nigeria.
Heather Lim
Heather recently earned her B.A. in Literatures in English from University of California, San Diego. She was editor of the Arts and Culture section of The Triton, a student-run newspaper. She plans on working in art criticism, which combines her love of visual art with her passion for journalism.
Honoring San Basilio de Palenque: The First Town Liberated from Slavery in the Americas
The story of San Basilio de Palenque is one of unparalleled strength, resistance and bravery.
River near San Basilio de Palenque. Fundacion Gabo. CC2.0
Roughly 30 miles away from the port city of Cartagena, Colombia, lies the small town of San Basilio de Palenque. Palenque has rich historical significance, as it was the first free African town in the Americas. The town was declared a “Place of National Character and Cultural Interest” by the Colombian government and a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2005.
History of San Basilio de Palenque
Town square in San Basilio de Palenque. Restrepo. CC2.0
San Basilio de Palenque was one of many walled forts, known as palenques, that were founded by those escaping slavery in colonial times. Founded in 1603 by Benkos Bioho and 36 other people, San Basilio is the only palenque remaining to this day and was successful due to its isolated location amid swamps and hills. Escaped slaves from Cartagena and surrounding regions would travel to San Basilio de Palenque in the hopes of seeking freedom. Against all odds, “palenqueros” formed their own army, language and support system to stay safe. The town was declared the first free town in the Americas in 1713, nearly 100 years before Colombia became independent from Spain.
Palenqueros in Colombia Today
Palenquera women in Colombia. Vest. CC2.0
The isolated nature of San Basilio de Palenque provides limited employment opportunities, which in turn causes the migration of many palenqueros to larger cities in search of work. On the streets of Cartagena, palenquero men are engaged in construction projects while palenquera women wearing brightly colored dresses sell fresh fruit and traditional sweets made of nuts, tropical fruits and panela (unrefined sugar). In a video from Great Big Story, the palenquera Everlinda Salgado Herrera discusses the historical and cultural significance of a sweet called alegria (meaning happiness in Spanish), which represents the joy palenqueros felt when they found freedom.
Although palenqueros are becoming integrated into Colombian society, they were initially met with discrimination, sometimes leading to feelings of resentment and denial over their cultural and racial identity. In the 1980s and ‘90s, a young generation of palenqueros advocated for a resurgence of palenquero culture, hoping to promote an appreciation of their rich heritage. Strong cultural pride among palenqueros continues to this day. Edwin Valdez Hernandez, a dance instructor at the Batata Dance and Music school in Palenque, states, "We defend our values with a shout. We are Black, and we are defending our culture."
Cultural Treasures of San Basilio de Palenque
Drummers in Palenque. Vest. CC2.0
Palenque is known worldwide for its unique language, music and culinary scene. One of Colombia’s 69 Indigenous languages, the palenquero language is only spoken in San Basilio de Palenque. Captives on European slave ships came from all parts of Africa speaking a variety of languages. As a colonizing strategy, people were purposely mixed together so they would not be able to communicate to plan an escape. Despite this, palenqueros created their own language, influenced by Castilian Spanish, Bantu, Portuguese and English.
The cuisine of San Basilio de Palenque is a delight for the taste buds. Some dishes include seafood rice, mote (a traditional Caribbean cheese), and fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce with pigeon peas, cassava and panela sugar. Palenquero cooking continues to reach international heights, most notably when the book “Cocina Palenquera Para el Mundo” won first prize at the 2014 Gourmand Cookbook Awards in Beijing.
Music is an incredibly important part of palenque culture and throughout Colombia. Palenque music is joyful with sweeping rhythms and fast drum beats and is coupled with bright costumes and a seemingly endless stamina for dancing. Some of the many dance styles include chalusonga, paseo, champeta, entrompao and palenquero son. Travelers can learn about Palenque’s rich musical culture by attending the Drums and Cultural Expressions Festival held annually in October.
The town of Palenque is also known for its interesting methods of running society. Instead of a police presence, Palenque is organized into systems called ma-kuagro, where people have designated roles and watch over each other. The crime rate in the town is nearly nonexistent due to this sense of community among Palenqueros. Interestingly, palenque women’s hairstyles also have historical significance. In colonial times, women would braid intricate patterns in their hair that were used to create maps, store gold and transmit messages to help people reach freedom. A statue of Palenque founder Benkos Bioho breaking out of chains stands in the town center.
A place of redemption and perseverance, San Basilio de Palenque is a cornerstone of Black resistance in Latin America and a perfect destination for a socially conscious traveler. Confronting past historical truths and being willing to listen to others’ experiences helps shed light on modern social issues to hopefully make the world a brighter and better place.
Megan Gürer
is a Turkish-American student at Wellesley College in Massachusetts studying Biological Sciences. Passionate about environmental issues and learning about other cultures, she dreams of exploring the globe. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, singing, and composing music.
10 Mouthwatering Rice Dishes from Around the World
The world is filled with a variety of rice dishes.
Rice grains. Verch. CC2.0
No matter where you are in the world, rice is a much loved staple. First cultivated in China and spread through international trade and migration, every region has its own way of preparing rice with local spices and ingredients. Here is a sample of 10 unique and culturally significant rice dishes from around the world.
Morasa polo with tahdig. Moos. CC2.0
1. Morasa polo (jeweled rice): Iran
Morasa polo (jeweled rice in Farsi) is one of Iran’s most festive dishes, traditionally served at celebrations and weddings to bring “sweetness” to a married couple. The rice is topped with various types of fruits and nuts, each representing a desired jewel. For example, barberries represent rubies and pistachios represent emeralds. Each component of the rice is cooked separately in sugar to give the dish a little sweetness. No plate of rice in Iran is complete without tahdig (literally “bottom of the pot”), referring to the crispy layer of rice at the bottom of the pan. One of the most coveted and challenging techniques to master in Persian cuisine, tahdig can be made several ways by using ghee, saffron, potatoes and lavash bread to give that desired crunch.
Nasi tumpeng. Kenwrick. CC2.0
2. Nasi tumpeng: Indonesia
Nasi tumpeng is a traditional rice dish served at a selamatan, a traditional ceremony for special occasions such as birthdays and weddings. The dish consists of a tall rice cone in the center, usually yellow rice, which represents the mountains and volcanoes of Indonesia’s landscapes. According to tradition, the yellow mountain of rice refers to Mount Semeru, home of the hyang, the spirits of Indonesian ancestors and the Hindu gods. The dish is accompanied by seven side dishes with a balance of chicken, seafood, eggs and vegetables that represent the helping hands of God. Nowadays, the dish has been ingrained in Indonesia’s Muslim culture representing gratitude toward God.
Jollof rice. Secretlondon123. CC2.0
3. Jollof rice: West Africa
Widely enjoyed across Africa, there is perhaps no dish that has sparked such heated discussion over its origins as jollof. A staple in social gatherings and weddings across West Africa, the rice is cooked with tomatoes, onions and peppers with additional seasonings depending on the region. Historians credit the origin of jollof rice to the Senegambia region, with cultural exchange then spreading it across the rest of West Africa. However, Nigerians, Ghanaians and Senegalese all claim the origins of this dish and are eager to debate which version is better with online battles (#JollofWars) and cook-offs. The dish is also popular among the African diaspora in the American South. In fact, popular dishes such as jambalaya and gumbo are believed to have their origins in jollof rice.
Hamsili pilav. Vardar. CC2.0
4. Hamsili pilav: Turkey
Although there are many types of pilaf in Turkey and the Middle East, hamsili pilav is one of the most unique and visually striking versions, with layers of fish covering up rice. Hamsi, also known as European anchovies, are considered Turkey’s national fish and play a crucial role in the culture and cuisine of the Black Sea region. Many poems and songs have been written about hamsi and the small but mighty fish is used in a variety of dishes, from breads to pickles and even jam. Known to be a favorite of the sultans during the Ottoman Empire, hamsili pilav is still a favorite in Turkish homes, especially among the Laz people living in the northeastern regions of the country.
Khichdi. Tushar. Wikimedia Commons. CC4.0
5. Khichdi: Indian Subcontinent
This humble but delicious dish is heavily ingrained in South Asian food culture. Most commonly made with rice and moong dal (a type of legume), it is one of the first foods that babies eat in Hindu culture. Easily digestible and nutritious, khichdi is popular across South Asia, including in India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Many regional variations of khichdi exist, adding available ingredients such as vegetables, spices, dried fruits and coconut. The Bengali variation, known as khichuri, is a rather elaborate version, served with an array of vegetable dishes, fried fish and curries.
Maqluba. Homan. CC2.0.
6. Maqluba: Palestine
Often considered Palestine’s national dish, maqluba is enjoyed at least once a week by many Palestinian families. Meaning “upside down” in Arabic, the dish is cooked in one pot with layers of meat (chicken or lamb), vegetables (most commonly potato and eggplant) and rice. Once the dish is cooked, it is flipped over onto a plate and served.
Cooking traditional foods allows Palestinians to cherish their culture while empowering themselves and their families. The Noor Women’s Empowerment Group is run by 13 Palestinian women working to overcome social stigmas faced by women and disabled children in Aida refugee camp. The organization holds traditional Palestinian cooking classes as a way to generate income to support their families and give visitors an insight into Palestinian life and culture. The organization has garnered international attention and received a visit by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain in 2013.
Arroz con pollo. Sea turtle. CC2.0
7. Arroz con pollo: Latin America and Spain
Translating as “rice with chicken,” this incredibly versatile rice dish is enjoyed across Latin America and Spain. The dish is thought to be connected to the Spanish paella and could have its origins from Arab influence in Spain as early as the 8th century. However, there is some debate as to whether the dish actually originated in Puerto Rico, as it is one of the island’s classic dishes. Arroz con pollo is seared chicken cooked with rice and vegetables, although seasonings vary from country to country across Latin America. For example, Mexican versions use chile, Colombian versions use a sofrito (blend of flavors including tomato and saffron) and Peruvian versions include cilantro and dark beer.
Ozoni. David Z. CC2.0
8. Ozoni: Japan
Ozoni (also spelled as zoni) is a soup that is eaten on the morning of New Year’s Day in Japan. The soup contains mochi cakes, either round or square-shaped, a clear dashi broth (made of dried kelp and bonito flakes) and other ingredients depending on the region. In areas closer to the water, seafood is added to the broth while more vegetables are used in inland areas. All ingredients have a special meaning that guarantees luck for the upcoming year. As mochi is stretchable, it represents longevity. Local produce is added for a bountiful harvest in the new year.
Wild rice. Emily. CC2.0.
9. Wild rice: North America
Considered to actually be an “aquatic grass seed,” wild rice has a higher nutritional value than regular rice. Wild rice is a staple of the Ojibwe people of southern Canada and the United States’ northern Midwest. The month of September was called “ricing moon”, when the Ojibwe left their homes to begin the weeklong process of harvesting the rice. Wild rice was a popular commodity at trading posts and was used to feed canoers transporting fur to and from the posts. The Ojibwe people would wait near rice fields to hunt birds, as ducks and geese use wild rice as a food source.
Rice and beans. The Marmot. CC2.0
10. Rice and beans: widely consumed across Latin America and Africa
Rice and beans is a staple in many Latin American and African countries and has become a pivotal part of their cuisines. Nutritious and filling, rice and beans have been a pairing in Latin America for thousands of years, known as the “matrimonio” or marriage in Central America. The types of beans and the preparation of the dish varies from country to country. For example, pinto beans are common in Mexico, fava beans are popular in Peru and black beans are a staple in Brazil and Cuba. Kidney beans and black-eyed peas are widely enjoyed across West Africa and the rest of the continent as well as in the American South. In Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean, rice and pigeon or field peas are quite popular, while the rice is cooked in coconut milk.
From Iran to North America, the preparation of rice differs vastly. Despite many differences, food is something that brings the world together and fosters an appreciation of Earth’s incredible cultural diversity.
Megan Gürer
Megan is a Turkish-American student at Wellesley College in Massachusetts studying Biological Sciences. Passionate about environmental issues and learning about other cultures, she dreams of exploring the globe. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, singing, and composing music.
NOW IS THE TIME: Totem Poles and the Haida Spirit
When internationally renowned Haida carver Robert Davidson was only 22 years old, he carved the first new totem pole on British Columbia’s Haida Gwaii in almost a century. On the 50th anniversary of the pole’s raising, Haida filmmaker Christopher Auchter steps easily through history to revisit that day in August 1969, when the entire village of Old Massett gathered to celebrate the event that would signal the rebirth of the Haida spirit.
10 Places to Honor Black History and Culture
Through artwork, literature, music and history, these institutions amplify Black voices and address race relations in America.
George Floyd protests in Charlotte, North Carolina. Clay Banks. Unsplash.
Amid global protests against racial injustice, a growing number of people are educating themselves on systemic racism and white privilege.
1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park - Atlanta, Georgia
Martin Luther King Jr. locating civil rights protests. Thomas Hawk. CC BY-NC 2.0
Located in one of Atlanta’s historic districts, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park honors the activist who strove for racial equality. The site includes a museum chronicling the American civil rights movement, as well as Dr. King’s childhood home, garden and gravesite. With 185 varieties of roses, the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden promotes peace between diverse world communities. Each year, students from the greater Atlanta area write poems that express the ideals of MLK, such as using civil disobedience to reach seemingly impossible goals. These “Inspirational Messages of Peace” are exhibited among the flowers and are read by thousands of visitors each year. Directly across the street is the final resting place of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King, his wife, surrounded by a reflection pool.
Until his assassination in 1968, King preached at Ebenezer Baptist Church, known as “America’s Freedom Church.” The church has continued to serve the Atlanta community since his death, vowing to “feed the poor, liberate the oppressed, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked and visit those who are sick or imprisoned.” While sitting in the pews, visitors hear prerecorded sermons and speeches from Martin Luther King Jr. Most recently, the funeral of Rayshard Brooks, a Black man fatally shot by police, was held at the church, with hundreds of prominent pastors, elected officials and activists in attendance.
2. National Museum of African American History and Culture - Washington, D.C.
A student at the NMAAHC uses an interactive learning tool. U.S. Department of Education. CC BY 2.0
The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is the only museum devoted exclusively to African American life, history and culture. In the words of Lonnie Bunch III, founding director of the NMAAHC, “The African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American.” From slavery to the civil rights movement, the museum aims to preserve and document Black experiences in America. With the launch of the Many Lenses initiative, students will gain a greater understanding of African American history by studying museum artifacts and discussing cultural perspectives alongside scholars, curators and community educators. Through the Talking About Race program, the museum provides tools and guidance to empower people of color and inspire conversations about racial injustice.
3. Black Writers Museum - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Langston Hughes, a famous writer featured at the BWM, signs autographs. Washington Area Spark. CC BY-NC 2.0
Built in 1803, the historic Vernon House includes the Black Writers Museum (BWM), the first museum in the country to exhibit classic and contemporary Black literature. The BWM celebrates Black authors, like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, who documented the resilience and resistance of African Americans throughout history. Supreme D. Dow, founder and executive director of the Black Writers Museum, noted, “There was a time in American history when Black people were denied the human right to read or write. But, because of the innate drive to satisfy the unquenchable thirst for self determination, our ancestors taught themselves how to read and write in righteous defiance of the law, and in the face of fatal repercussions.” Through books, newspapers, journals and magazines, the museum honors the Black narrators of history. The BWM also strives to inspire future African American authors with community activities like poetry readings, cultural arts festivals and book signings.
4. Tubman Museum - Macon, Georgia
Artwork depicting Harriet Tubman on the Underground Railroad. UGArdener. CC BY-NC 2.0
Named after Harriet Tubman, the “Black Moses” who led hundreds of slaves to freedom, the Tubman Museum has become a key educational and cultural center for the entire American Southeast. Through artwork and artifacts, the main exhibits recount the struggles and triumphs of Tubman, a former slave, abolitionist and spy. The “From the Minds of African Americans” Gallery displays inventions from Black inventors, scientists and entrepreneurs, such as Madam C.J. Walker and George Washington Carver. The Tubman Museum also actively contributes to the Macon, Georgia, community. The Arts & History Outreach program takes Black history beyond museum walls. Local African American artists and teachers bring museum resources into the classroom, promoting hands-on learning. Due to COVID-19, the museum recently launched a distance learning program to provide people at home with a deeper understanding of the African American experience.
5. Museum of the African Diaspora - San Francisco, California
Contemporary art by Kehinde Wiley exhibited at the MoAD. Garret Ziegler. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD), a contemporary art museum, celebrates Black culture from the perspective of African diaspora. Focused exclusively on African migration throughout history, the museum presents artwork, photography and artifacts related to the themes of origin, movement, adaptation and transformation. Currently, MoAD is featuring various exhibitions from emerging artists that explore ancestral memory and Black visibility. As active members of the San Francisco community, museum curators offer various programs like public film screenings, artist talks and musical performances. In response to worldwide protests, the museum created a guide with resources to support Black Americans, as well as a video series that promotes community resilience. Monetta White, MoAD’s executive director, announced, “Now more than ever, we affirm that Museums are Not Neutral. As humanitarian educators and forums for conversation, museums are a space to confront some of the most uncomfortable conversations in human history.”
6. National Museum of African American Music - Nashville, Tennessee
Jimi Hendrix, a featured musician at the NMAAM. Clausule. Public Domain.
Scheduled to open its doors for the first time on Sept. 5, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) will be the first museum in the world to showcase African American influence on various genres of music, such as classical, country, jazz and hip-hop. NMAAM will integrate history and interactive technology to share music through the lens of Black Americans. “African American music has long been a reflection of American culture. Additionally, African American musicians often used their art as a ‘safe’ way to express the way they felt about the turbulent times our country faced,” said Kim Johnson, director of programs at the museum. NMAAM will also support the Nashville community through various outreach programs. From Nothing to Something explores the music that early African Americans created using tools like spoons, banjos, cigar box guitars and washtub basins. Children receive their own instruments, learning how simple resources influenced future music genres. Another program, Music Legends and Heroes, promotes leadership, teamwork and creativity in young adults. Students work together to produce a musical showcase in honor of Black musicians. In 2015, student guitarists paid tribute to Jimi Hendrix, the rock icon. “This opportunity gave them a real-life connection to an artist they had only seen in their textbooks or online,” said Hope Hall, librarian at the Nashville School of the Arts.
7. The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration - Montgomery, Alabama
Exterior of the Legacy Museum. Sonia Kapadia. CC BY-SA 4.0
The Legacy Museum is located in a former slave auction warehouse, where thousands of Black people were trafficked during the domestic slave trade. The museum employs unique technology to portray the enslavement of African Americans, the evolution of racial terror lynchings, legalized racial segregation and racial hierarchy in America. Visitors encounter replicas of slave pens and hear first-person accounts of enslaved people, along with looking at photographs and videos from the Jim Crow laws, which segregated Black Americans until 1965. The Legacy Museum also explores contemporary issues of inequality, like mass incarceration and police violence. As part of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), the museum is committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, with proceeds going toward marginalized communities. “Our hope is that by telling the history of the African American experience in this country, we expose the narratives that have allowed us to tolerate suffering and injustice among people of color,” says Sia Sanneh, member of EJI.
8. African American Military History Museum - Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Circa 1942, the Tuskegee Airmen pose in front of their aircraft. Signaleer. Public Domain.
The African American Military History Museum educates the public about African American contributions to the United States’ military. During World War II, the building functioned as a segregated club for African American soldiers. Transformed in 2009, the museum now commemorates the courage and patriotism of Black soldiers, who have served in every American conflict since the Revolutionary War. Artifacts, photographs and medals tell the story of how African Americans overcame racial boundaries to serve their country. For instance, the World War II exhibit features the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American soldiers to successfully enter the Army Air Corps.
9. National Voting Rights Museum and Institute - Selma, Alabama
The 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery for the right to vote. Abernathy Family. Public Domain.
In the historic district of Selma, Alabama, the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute honors the movement to end voter discrimination. With memorabilia and documentation, the museum illustrates the struggle of Black Americans to obtain voting rights. In 1965, nearly 600 civil rights marchers crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge, hoping to reach Montgomery. However, the day became known as “Bloody Sunday” as local law enforcement attacked peaceful protesters with clubs and tear gas. While the Voting Rights Act of 1965 outlawed voting practices that disenfranchised African Americans, many believe voter suppression still exists through strict photo ID laws for voters, a failure to provide bilingual ballots, and ex-felon disenfranchisement laws. By educating the public, the museum hopes to forever dismantle the barriers of voting in the United States.
10. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center - Cincinnati, Ohio
On the banks of the Ohio River, a statue depicts a mother and her child escaping slavery. Living-Learning Programs. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Near the Ohio River, where thousands of slaves traveled in search of freedom, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center reveals the ongoing struggle for autonomy. From the historical vantage point of the Underground Railroad, the museum promotes the modern abolition of slavery. Due to widespread human trafficking, nearly 40 million people are currently enslaved around the world. As stated on the museum’s website, “Despite the triumphant prose of our American history books, slavery didn’t fully end 150 years ago. Today and throughout time, people around the world have struggled for their freedom. Yet, as forms of slavery evolve, so do the imaginations of those fighting for freedom.” Through artifacts, photographs and first-person accounts, the museum introduces the men and women who have resisted slavery. “Invisible: Slavery Today” is the world's first permanent exhibition on the subjects of modern-day slavery and human trafficking, challenging and inspiring visitors to promote freedom today.
Shannon Moran
is a Journalism major at the University of Georgia, minoring in English and Spanish. As a fluent Spanish speaker, she is passionate about languages, cultural immersion, and human rights activism. She has visited seven countries and thirty states and hopes to continue traveling the world in pursuit of compelling stories.
The Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas. Sam Cavenagh. CC BY-NC 2.0.
Zacatecas: a Vibrant Community in the Heart of Mexico
Travel deep enough into the Chihuahuan Desert and you’ll find yourself in Zacatecas. The Mexican state known for its mining industry and colonial architecture is often overlooked by travelers in favor of more popular cities such as Guadalajara, Mexico City and Acapulco.
That said, one would be remiss to overlook the desert state while planning a trip to Mexico. I had the privilege to visit the state’s capital city of Zacatecas along with Jerez de Garcia Salinas a couple of years ago, and I can truly say that Zacatecas is one of the most unique and beautiful places I have ever been to.
The state of Zacatecas is located in the center of northern Mexico, and is home to mountains that are a part of Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental mountain ranges. However, much of the state is located on the Mexican Plateau, and as a result is predominantly known for its small mesas and large areas of flat land, which feature a cool, dry climate.
Zacatecas, like much of Mexico, has a predominantly Roman Catholic culture, with 94% of the population identifying with the religion. This is reflected in the numerous religious festivals held throughout the year in the state, including Sept. 8 being dedicated to the Virgen del Patrocinio in the capital city, the last week of August highlighting the Morismas de Bracho, which is a rendition of the historical struggle between the Christians and the Moors in Spain, and the annual Holy Week and Spring Festival held in Jerez de Garcia Salinas.
Recently, the state has seen many Zacatecans protesting to demand social change within Mexico and abroad. Many women and allies participated in local protests throughout the state to demand the government address femicide and gender inequality on March 8 as a part of International Women’s Day.
Whether you are a lover of Spanish architecture, enjoy learning about Mexican history or simply want to travel somewhere you may have never heard of before, Zacatecas is an ideal next stop on your agenda once the pandemic is over.
Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas
The Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas at night. Jesús Ricardo Flores Márquez. CC BY-SA.
Rising above the two-story buildings in the heart of downtown, the Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas is arguably the most recognizable landmark in all of the city. The current cathedral, which was preceded by two temples on the same site which were constructed in 1568 and 1625, was constructed between 1730 and 1760 and features a facade showcasing the Baroque art of the time period. The cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the surrounding city center in 1993.
Mass is held daily Monday through Saturday at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., noon, 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., with additional services held on Sunday hourly from 7 a.m. to noon, followed by 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Jerez de Garcia Salinas
The Portal Inguanzo in Jerez de Garcia Salinas. Thelmadatter. CC BY-SA .
Located approximately 45 minutes away by car from the city of Zacatecas, Jerez de Garcia Salinas is an agricultural town rich in history and culture. The small city features a number of shops, museums and restaurants located inside colonial buildings. Several popular sites include the Rafael Paez Garden, the Hinojosa Theater and the De La Torre building.
One of the most notable events in the city is the annual Holy Week and Spring Festival leading up to Easter Sunday. Serving as a homecoming for many Jerez natives who have moved away, the festival sees the streets of the city taken over by cowboys on horseback who drag effigies through the streets. Musicians perform throughout the city as residents either join in the celebration on the streets or view the festivities from their balconies.
La Quemada
La Quemada, one of largest Indigineous architectural sites in Mexico. Javier Do. CC BY-SA.
La Quemada, also known as Chicomoztoc, is an archaeological site located approximately 40 minutes by car south of the city of Zacatecas. While historians have not definitively determined who built it, several theories include the ruins being home to the original Aztec people, as a fortress for Teotihuacan, as a Toltec trading post or simply as an abandoned city. What is known, however, is that many of the structures were burned in a fire, giving the site the name “La Quemada,” which means “the burned city.”
Popular structures at La Quemada include the Hall of the Columns, the Votive Pyramid and the Sacrificial Pyramid. Visitors are able to catch a bus from downtown Zacatecas to La Quemada, or alternatively can take a taxi.
Sierra de Organos National Park
Rock formations in Sierra de Organos National Park. Alejandro Hernández Osuna. Public Domain.
The Sierra de Organos National Park is the only national park in the state. Located approximately 120 miles to the northwest of the capital near the city of Durango, this national park is known for its conifer forests, rock formations and organ pipe cactuses, from which the park is named. Visitors to the park are able to hike, cycle, rock climb and get up close to the native flora and fauna of the region. While camping is permitted, visitors are encouraged to maintain sustainability and cleanliness, as the park is home to several endangered species.
Bufa Hill
The prominent hill which sits just next to the heart of downtown Zacatecas. Chanilim714. CC BY-SA.
Rising above the city center, Bufa Hill is a large hill located immediately next to the city of Zacatecas’ downtown. The hill, which is accessible by road or cable car, features breathtaking views of the city and surrounding area. It also looks over a number of historic sites from the Battle of Zacatecas, the bloodiest battle to take place during the war to overthrow President Victoriano Huerta in 1914.
Visitors to the hill can visit the Capilla de la Virgen del Patrocinio (Chapel of the Virgin of Patronage), a small chapel which is said to have healing powers for the sick, and the Museo Toma de Zacatecas, which commemorates the aforementioned battle.
Jacob Sutherland
is a recent graduate from the University of California San Diego where he majored in Political Science and minored in Spanish Language Studies. He previously served as the News Editor for The UCSD Guardian, and hopes to shed light on social justice issues in his work.
The Truffle Kingpin And Young Entrepreneur Based In New York City
At first glance, 24-year-old Ian Purkayastha seems like any other entrepreneur: he's motivated, crafty, disciplined, and personable. But behind the facade of a clever businessman lies a youthful energy and a passion for selling some of the rarest food on the planet: truffles. Purkayastha sells all kinds of truffles to 90 percent of New York's fine dining restaurants and has been peddling the fungi out of his backpack to the likes of Eleven Madison Park, Le Bernadin, and other Michelin-starred restaurants for nine years now.
THIS ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON GREAT BIG STORY
Living Beyond the Gender Binary for Centuries
In Tehuantepec, a town in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, Lukas Avendaño and fellow muxes live beyond the gender binary. A muxe is an individual assigned male at birth who behaves outside roles traditionally associated with masculinity. Sometimes referred to as a third gender, muxe identity pre-dates Spanish imperialism in the Zapotec region. For Lukas, dressing in feminine Zapotec clothing is a political act, giving everybody the power and the liberty to decide who they want to be.
Mexico
The videographer is Face du Monde and these are his comments on the video:
“Since I was a kid, it always has been a dream of mine to see "El dia de los Muertos" in Mexico. So last October my friend Max and I decided to travel there. It was my second time in this country I really fell in love with. We spent 3 weeks travelling around Quintana Roo, Yucatán and Campeche states. I made this video to show how this country has his own culture, his own history that you will find nowhere else in the world. "El dia de los Muertos" is an event everybody should see once in his life, it really represents the Mexican soul. I would like to thank all amazing people I met there who made this journey unforgettable.”
In Japan, Repairing Buildings Without a Single Nail
In the past, making and developing metal was too costly for carpenters in Japan. So instead of using nails, carpenters called “miyadaiku” developed unique methods for interlocking pieces of wood together, similar to a giant 3D puzzle. Takahiro Matsumoto has been a miyadaiku carpenter for over 40 years. He runs his company in Kamakura, Japan, where he assesses and repairs damage sustained by the many ancient temples in his city. Using ancient techniques, he ensures that these spiritual structures stay standing for generations to come.
Cultivating Japan’s Rare White Strawberry
In Japan, there's a specialty fruit craze sweeping the nation, from square watermelons to grapes the size of Ping-Pong balls. Still, the crown jewel of the luxury fruit basket is the white strawberry, bred to be a whole lot bigger and a whole lot sweeter than its classic red counterpart. We took a tour of Yasuhito Teshima's farm in Karatsu, Japan, to find out why so many people are spending a pretty penny for a taste of these famous white berries.
An 1811 wood engraving depicts the coronation of King Henry. Fine Art America
Inside the Kingdom of Hayti, ‘the Wakanda of the Western Hemisphere’
Marvel’s blockbuster “Black Panther,” which recently became the first superhero drama to be nominated for a Best Picture Academy Award, takes place in the secret African Kingdom of Wakanda. The Black Panther, also known as T’Challa, rules over this imaginary empire – a refuge from the colonialists and capitalists who have historically impoverished the real continent of Africa.
Read MoreIn Tokyo, These Trains Jingle All the Way
While most train stations alert passengers with basic dings and dongs, metro riders in Japan are treated to uniquely crafted melodies. Minoru Mukaiya is the mastermind behind these jingles—he’s made around 200 distinct chimes for over 110 stations. For Minoru, there’s no greater joy than bringing a little bit of music to millions across Japan every day.
The Museum of Antioquia, in Medellin. Jonathan Robinson.
Turmoil, Pain, and Beauty: Colombia’s Blossoming Art Scene
With its rich, diverse culture, picturesque landscapes and lush natural resources, Colombia should be one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. However, the country’s image took a hit in the 1980s, with the rise of cocaine and the drug cartels that controlled it, most notably, Pablo Escobar and his Medellin cartel. In recent years the Colombian government has addressed this problem head-on, dismantling drug rings and adopting a national slogan designed to put visitors at ease: “The only risk is never wanting to leave”. A recent spike in Colombia’s art scene may also help lift the stigma that shrouds the country, adding a new dimension to a people and culture the world thought it knew, and helping Colombia develop a new identity, or perhaps, reclaim an old one.
To be fair, Colombia is still the world's top producer of cocaine, and the legal status of cocaine within the country, combined with the high demand for it outside of the country makes the drug trade a recurrent enemy of the government. To make matters worse, drugs are not the only vice thriving in Colombia. Prostitution is also legal and readily available, making Colombia a popular destination for sex tourism, like Thailand or the Netherlands. In 2012, American secret service agents made international headlines when they got into a spat with a prostitute over an unpaid bill for “services rendered” while then President Barack Obama was visiting Cartagena. While the incident was a PR nightmare for the US, it also added to Colombia’s already prevalent image as a haven for illicit activity.
There is, however, much more to Colombia than sex and dope—and there always has been. In the heart of Medellin, the very city Escobar called home, lies the Museo de Antioquia, one of Colombia’s oldest museums. The museum features the work of famed Medellin artist Fernando Botero, known for his voluminous depictions of people and animals. This “Boterismo” style won Botero international fame, with many of his paintings and sculptures being featured in museums around the world. There was even a restaurant named after him in Las Vegas. Medellin is not the only city to get swept up in the art craze. The capital city of Bogota is home to over 100 commercial art galleries, a byproduct of an economic boom that Colombia experienced as the drug wars began to subside and the country began to stabilize.
The works of Fernando Botero are prominently featured at the museum. Jonathan Robinson.
Sometimes, in the scramble to create a compelling story, media outlets may narrow or oversimplify the identities of people. Colombians are joining a long list of ethnic, gender, and religious groups who take issue with the way they are portrayed in the media and are taking it upon themselves to help the world understand that their culture may be a bit more nuanced than it has been led to believe. While the rise of Colombia's art scene may not refute the bloody images the media has shown in the past, it does add to them, creating a separate narrative for the country that exists alongside the current one. In the end, understanding Colombia may not require the world to empty its cup, but rather, to invest in a larger one.
JONATHAN ROBINSON is an intern at CATALYST. He is a travel enthusiast always adding new people, places, experiences to his story. He hopes to use writing as a means to connect with others like himself.
VIDEO: Germany's Oasis for Humanity
In the heart of Magdeburg, Germany is a mosaic superstructure known as the Green Citadel. Equipped with residential apartments, shops, cafes, hotels and a preschool, the complex was built to be an oasis for all mankind. Taking only two years to complete construction, the Citadel is considered one of the first pre-fabricated buildings in Germany. With its incredible pink exterior and bright green gardens, the building stands as the last work of architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, built to be "an oasis for humanity and nature in a sea of rational houses."
Savor Japan’s Deep-Fried Maple Leaves
Maple leaf tempura, also known as “momiji,” is a snack native to the Japanese town of Minoh. Battered and deep-fried to a golden crisp, making momiji is a delicate process that takes about a year to prepare. Just ask Setsuko Hisakuni—she’s been making them for over 50 years, carrying on a tradition that began in the 1300s.