By Ximena Ramírez Villanueva
I arrived in Bogotá for my internship with Avocats Sans Frontières filled with anticipation. I was especially eager to contribute to the GENPAZ project, which focused on transitional justice in Colombia’s evolving conflict landscape. The armed conflict, which has spanned over five decades, has deeply affected the nation. It has left a legacy of violence, displacement, and ongoing challenges for peace and reconciliation. My responsibilities included conducting legal research reparations, attending professional events, and supporting the dissemination of recommendations from the Commission for the Special Jurisdiction for Peace. Despite the importance of this work, I found one of the biggest challenges was navigating the experience of being alone in a new country. Bonding with my colleagues and fully integrating into the local culture proved to be difficult. However, one night, my colleagues invited me to go salsa dancing. I had been dancing salsa for years, I knew it had a way of bringing people together. The connection we established through dance felt both immediate and effortless. In the most unlikely of places, we found ourselves discussing our thoughts on the conflict and avenues for justice.
These unexpected conversations made me realize that healing and understanding can begin in the most unassuming moments. During a visit to the Memory and Peace Centre, I participated in a workshop focused on healing through movement, which underscored how physical expression can aid in processing trauma and fostering a sense of community. This theme of resilience through dance was further reinforced during my visit to Cali, often referred to as the world’s salsa capital. Every Friday night, the city’s boulevard becomes a gathering place where people from all walks of life come together to dance. While Cali does have its challenges with safety, this didn’t diminish the strong sense of community and connection I experienced, which stood in contrast to the city’s troubled image. The act of dancing in such a setting felt like a collective assertion of identity and solidarity. One of the most memorable moments of my time in Cali was hearing “Cali Pachanguero” by Grupo Niche played live. This song, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the city, embodies the pride and spirit of the Caleños. As I joined the crowd in dancing this anthem, I realized that salsa is not merely entertainment; it is a statement of resilience and continuity. In a city often stigmatized by violence, the communal experience of salsa dancing provides a counter-narrative — one of unity and shared joy.
Of course, I do not see dancing as the sole solution to moving forward, as that would risk sounding cavalier about the complexities of Colombia’s situation. The conflict has deeply affected the culture and lives of its people, yet it has not stripped away the significance of simple community activities like dancing. Such activities are not just symbolic but are necessary steps toward healing and reparations. They offer a way for people to reclaim their identities and rebuild trust within their communities. The GENPAZ project allowed me to explore the complexities of Colombia’s transitional justice efforts. However, my experiences outside the office, particularly through dance, provided an equally important perspective on peacebuilding. The reconciliation process in Colombia involves more than addressing past atrocities; it requires fostering connections in the present. Dancing salsa in Cali illustrated how cultural practices can play a role in this process, helping to rebuild social cohesion and trust within communities.
As I reflect on my internship, it is clear that the work of transitional justice extends beyond legal frameworks and political agreements. It also involves creating spaces where people can come together, whether in a courtroom or on a dance floor. Salsa dancing, with its deep roots in Colombian culture, offers a powerful example of how communities can reclaim their narratives and move forward together. In Colombia, the pursuit of peace is ongoing, and it involves both confronting the past and finding ways to live in the present. Salsa dancing, particularly in cities like Cali, serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of the Colombian people. It is a testament to their ability to find joy and connection even in the face of adversity, and it highlights the importance of cultural expression in the broader context of peace and reconciliation.