Tag: san juan

Photo of the Day: 12 October 2015

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Happy Monday Everyone!

For those of you who may not know, today is Columbus Day here in the United States. For some reason (quite unknown to me), every year the United States celebrates a man who, by all historical accounts, decimated and enslaved the indigenous persons of the Americas. So instead of highlighting an inappropriate historical figure, I’d like to turn my attentions this October 12th to my Isla del Encanto: Puerto Rico. Although the Taínos were subjected to the wrath of Columbus, the music, culture, and appreciation for nature that stems from our ancestors is still alive and well in Puerto Rico. So, this Columbus Day instead of celebrating a man who was a destroyer of cultures and people, I encourage you to celebrate all of the indigenous populations around the world and to remember that no matter our differences, we are all human and we all deserve mutual respect.

– Hazel

Photo © 2015 Bryan Arroyo

Photo of the Day: 5 October 2015

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Happy Monday Everyone!

Today’s vibrant photo was taken in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Old San Juan perfectly exemplifies the spirit and culture of Puerto Rico: vibrant, joyful, and inclusive. Unknown to most, Puerto Rican culture is a melting pot of Taíno, European, African, Caribbean, and American cultures and traditions. From the food we eat to the music we play, there are elements of each culture infused into our costumbres. While I have lived my entire life on the mainland of the United States, Puerto Rican culture is alive and well in my home and in my blood. I will always be proud of my boricuas.

– Hazel

Photo © 2015 Hazel Arroyo