Bocas del Toro Celebrates International Day of Indigenous Peoples with Cultural Showcase

The province of Bocas del Toro in Panama joined the global observance of the International Day of Indigenous Peoples with a vibrant celebration. A parade marched along Avenida 17 de Abril, drawing participation from authorities and representatives of diverse ethnic groups who came together to showcase their unique customs and traditions.

The event was a colorful display of cultural expressions, featuring traditional dances and the striking traditional attire of indigenous peoples. This visual presentation served as a powerful reminder of the deep roots of these communities and underscored the critical importance of preserving their rich cultural legacy for future generations. The celebration aimed to honor and promote the heritage of the region's indigenous populations.

“

This year we did it by district, first with a mass and then with the parade. The message is for the young people to put our customs into practice and not to forget that it is not just a date, but something they must carry with them, appreciating the culture they have.

Dinora De Miranda, the regional director of Meduca, emphasized the significance of passing down cultural practices. "This year we did it by district, first with a mass and then with the parade. The message is for the young people to put our customs into practice and not to forget that it is not just a date, but something they must carry with them, appreciating the culture they have," she stated. This sentiment highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure cultural continuity.

The celebration also focused on valuing the cultural diversity within Bocas del Toro, a province where indigenous groups like the Ngäbe coexist with other ethnicities. Fidel Santos from the Municipality of Changuinola remarked, "It is important that we value our culture because it represents us. In this way, we want to continue highlighting our culture and our traditions here in Changuinola." His words reflect a strong local commitment to celebrating and maintaining cultural identity.

“

It is important that we value our culture because this represents us. In this way, we want to continue highlighting our culture and our traditions here in Changuinola.