Sunday, May 11, 2008
History is a funny thing
What happens when one can not write and record the events that shape us? We rely on documents such as the Slave Registry to reveal truths that perhaps we all want to forget. Yet, history is a funny thing because it is only through accepting those truths that we can truly move beyond what once was. This precious document, the Slave Registry of the Village of Ponce, is heartbreaking and liberating at once. I can find my family here, my history--our history--and more importantly our future. Just as JFK visited Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and said "Ich bin ein Berliner," I can state here in this Free Registry "Yo soy una Poncena." We all are, no matter where we come from and whatever race we may be.
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5 comments:
This exhibition is both powerful and hurtful reminding us of the inhumanity that enslavement has had in our history. It provides historical context for understanding the continued destructive legacy of racism, discrimination and injustice.
The important exhibition that connects us internationally allows us examine how going forward we must actively work against injustice, racism and discrimination.
Thank You Diogenes, Judy and Medianoche for helping us understand our history and define our future work.
Marta Moreno Vega
Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute
I loved the exhibition by Diognes Ballester to be enriching and rewarding. It opened up a new world of african ancestors I would like to know in Puerto Rico.
Buena Suerte on the project and hope it educates our Barrio community on the impact of Slavery in Puerto Rico.
Brunilda Vega
Community Board # 11
Words cannot describe the impact of Diogenes Ballester's exhibition. I would recommend this to everyone.
Jewel Jones
Community Board#11
Que buena exposición!!!!
Thank you so much Diogenes. It has become a truism to say that humanity is at a crossroads. But I think it is true nonetheless. And we can only find a path forward to justice and peace if we look back at where we've been honestly and fully. The creativity and imagination you bring to this effort is inspiring. I can't wait for this exhibition to come to California! - Max Elbaum, Oakland
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