Afro-Colombian Day
Content for Grades 7 - 12
During May in Colombia, the whole country comes together to commemorate and support Afro-Colombian culture as well as to work towards equality.
This special date was first celebrated in 2001, in order to honor the Afro population, remember their relevance to Colombian history, and of course give recognition to all the artistic, academic, and social contributions made by Afro-Colombians.
It is a time to rejoice in the power and beauty of Afro-Colombian traditions and continue the work towards equality and recognition for Afro-Colombians in all aspects of society.
Activity 1
Play the following song to students, ask them to pay attention to the rhythm and the emotions portrayed in the singers' voices. Then, ask them the following questions.
- In which context do you think this kind of chants are played/sung?
- What do you think the purpose of chants is? What feelings or sensations did the chants evoke on you?
- Do you know of any tradition in which a community gathers together around music? If so, tell us about it.
Activity 2
Read more about Alabaos and Gualíes below, an Afro-Colombian musical tradition that communities from Chocó, Cauca and Antioquia practice to cope with grief.
These chants are transmitted and shared through oral tradition from generation to generation, the lyrics and rhythms cannot be found in any type of music sheet; currently the tradition is being documented by the Colombian Ministry of Culture and it is considered intangible heritage of the nation.
Alabaos are a set of chants and rhythms that tell stories about the passing of an individual. Not only Alabaos aim to accompany the person's soul and guide them to eternity but also help the community with facing their loss and their healing processes. Additionally, Afro-Colombians perceive life as a cycle in which they share their territory with their ancestors, therefore Alabaos represent a channel to maintain the bond with predecessors. Alabaos are sacred chants that are mainly interpreted by elder and wise women of the community, called Cantaoras. One of the most representative interpreters of Alabaos and Pacific music from Colombia is Elena Hinestroza. Furthermore, Afro-Colombians in the Pacific region practice Gualíes, these are ceremonies that are meant to commemorate and honor children who have passed. Gualíes include games, dances, music, jokes, and rhymes.
The sense of this ceremony is more joyful than Alabaos’, since the idea is to honor children with love and joy. If you want you can share the following video as an example of Gualí.
Activity 2 Continued
Watch this Video & Learn More about Gualí
Experiential Activity
Play the following song for at least 40 seconds and explain to your students the general meaning of the lyrics.
Then, ask them to bear in mind all what they have explored about Alabaos and Guaníles and select three songs that represent their connection with their culture or community.
Students could work in groups, individually, collect their ideas in a Padlet or use the template. Allow them to work for some minutes and then ask them to socialize their selected songs and reasons for it.
In which way can music or chants help us to build collective memory?
In which way can music or chants help a community or individual with their healing processes?
How do you think music supports communities when it comes to create a sense of resilience and solidarity?
Reflection Zone