It's been much time since the last post and I apologize. Keeping up a blog is surprisingly difficult when there's so much to distract you in a place like Buenos Aires. I have a bunch of posts to write so I'm going to try to hammer them out in the next few days.
That being said, I want to talk to you guys about a parade/march I witnessed April 24th here in Buenos Aires. It's a national holiday celebrating the fall of the dictatorship and commemorating those lost to the black bagging of the governments (los desconocidos or the unknown).
Had I written this post closer to when the march actually happened I'm sure I'd have a lot more to say but what was truly remarkable was the passion and energy of it all. I've never seen such a large march (my friend and I estimated at least 7,000 people plus, but who knows how accurate our estimation skills are) and the spirit present in that crowd was nothing short of electric. The Argentine people are really quite passionate about their history, their future, and their identity in a way I've never experienced before. It was really inspiring to see so many people coming together and simultaneously mourn such a dark period for their country while celebrating where they have come from and their national identity. I've attached some pictures to try to show you what I mean, but these pictures will never capture the sheer immensity of the event or the excitement of being there.
a drum circle playing for the crowd
part of the parade with a moving memorial for a kid who disappeared during the dictatorship
One of the most amazing things about Argentine politics is the diversity of interests represented. There are socialist, populist, communist, democratic, and just about every other kind of political party. Obviously some hold much greater power than others but it's interesting to see such diversity and freedom of political expression. Could you imagine the socialist or communist party showing its support and marching alongside democrats and republicans during a march in the states?
Carefully designed chalk and dirt art on the streets, pretty cool
An interesting juxtaposition between presidential propaganda for the current president and flyers casting the blame for political corruption and wrongdoing
check out che guevarra. they like their che
A view of the crowd with the obelisk in the background
Another example of political diversity, this time with the communist party banner
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