Being Black in Colombia

My last work trip before this pandemic was in February of last year. I went to Nuqí, in Colombia’s Pacific Coast. I had the privilege of facilitating Skylight’s AfroColombia SolidariLabs. It was magical. It was transformational work among people devoting their art and passion to a more just and inclusive society. It was an effort to face racism and right past and current wrongs.

Today Colombia is in turmoil. People hit the streets against an unjust tax-reform proposal that has now been withdrawn. But at least 30 people have died, 87 are missing and 800 have been injured. Protest has been violently repressed. But the people in Colombia continue to denounce police brutality and demand broader social, economic and political reforms.

Colombia is a multiracial society that struggles with racism, violence and injustices borne out of a global economic system that harms people and the planet. It is also a place of joy and culture. A rich and generous land where people come together, love each other, make beautiful things, and take a stand for what is right.

Here are some ways to support Colombia’s protests right now.