Things We Find Joy In—May

May is a month full of joy and meaning for us at Alegria: Palenque Preservation Project. We proudly celebrated Afro-Colombian Day on May 21—a day that honors the culture, resilience, and historical contributions of Afro-Colombians, especially those from San Basilio de Palenque. This unique community, the first free Black town in the Americas, continues to inspire generations with its bold legacy of resistance, pride, and cultural richness. From language to music to medicine, Palenque remains a vibrant symbol of what it means to be unapologetically rooted in Black history and identity. 

We also celebrated Mother’s Day with deep gratitude for the powerful women of Palenque, whose leadership and love sustain the heart of the community. Women here are not only mothers in the traditional sense—they are also culture bearers, freedom fighters, healers, and storytellers. Their strength shapes the rhythms of daily life and the future of cultural preservation. This May, we found joy in honoring both the past and the present, and in sharing these stories with you—because remembering is also a form of celebration.

Les Celebro, Señoras!

Erin