馃實

Understanding the Afro-Peruvian Experience

Mar 27, 2025

Lecture Notes: The African Diaspora in Peru

Introduction

  • Presenter: Fada
  • Offers African Diaspora tours in various Latin American countries, including Peru.
  • Encourages attendees to contact him for a black history tour in Peru.

Common Perceptions of Peru

  • Famous for: Incas, Machu Picchu, alpacas, llamas, and guinea pigs.
  • Often not associated with blackness despite the visible Afro-Peruvian presence in the national football team.

Afro-Peruvian Population

  • Estimated up to 3 million people, about 10% of Peru's population.
  • High concentrations in:
    • Lima and its neighboring districts like Lkl
    • Southern coast: regions of Chincha and Ca帽ete
    • Northern region of Piura: Sanya and Yapatera

Historical Context

  • Slave Trade (1503 - mid-1800s):

    • Enslaved Africans were trafficked primarily to areas around Lima.
    • Worked in construction, domestic roles, and in plantations (cotton, vineyards).
    • Secret tunnels used to smuggle enslaved Africans and avoid taxes.
  • Abolition of Slavery:

    • 1821: Freedom of the Womb - children born to enslaved mothers were free.
    • 1854: Complete abolition of slavery.

Notable Historical Figures

  • San Martin de Porres (1579-1639):
    • Mixed-race, first afro-descendant saint in Latin America.
    • Known for supernatural abilities and patron of racial harmony.
    • Canonized in 1962.

Cultural Resurgence and Contributions

  • 1950s onwards: Rise of black consciousness influenced by the US civil rights movement.
  • Pioneers:
    • Nic贸medes and Victoria Santa Cruz:

      • Created an afro-peruvian dance and theater collective.
    • Amador Ballumbrosio:

      • Preserved afro-peruvian songs and dances; family continues tradition.
    • Susana Baca:

      • Renowned afro-caribbean singer and former Minister of Culture.

Afro-Peruvian Culture

  • Music & Dance:

    • Styles include festejo and zamacueca.
    • Instruments: cajita, quijada, caj贸n.
  • Cuisine:

    • Dishes like anticucho (cow鈥檚 heart) and turr贸n (dessert).
    • Mama In茅: revered chef known as "mother of Peruvian cooking".

Modern Challenges and Progress

  • 2009: Peruvian government鈥檚 formal apology to Afro-Peruvian community.

  • Persistent issues of racism and lack of recognition for Afro-Peruvian culture.

  • Annual Events:

    • Afro-Peruvian Day on June 4th.
    • Samus Familia event in December.
  • Community Organizations:

    • Ashanti, Asocena, and Peruvian Rastafarian Society work on grassroots community efforts.

Youth and Cultural Pride

  • Prominent Figures and Initiatives:
    • Bloggers, activists, and artists like Chica Afro, La Joya Negra, and Las Respondonas.
    • Efforts to foster cultural consciousness and pride among Peruvian Millennials.