Original Source: ticotimes.net
In May, Guatemala will breathe literary life into the aftermath of oppression during the Central America Cuenta festival, featuring the esteemed Joan Manuel Serrat. Claudia Neira, the festival director from Nicaragua, emphasizes the importance of advocating for freedoms and rejecting the grips of dictatorship. “Countries suffocated by tyranny witness human rights violations, leading to waves of exile,” she remarked, urging attendees to reflect on Nicaragua’s plight as a sign of the region’s collective future.
Neira reflects on the constitutional changes in Nicaragua that tightly grip power within the hands of President Ortega and his wife. She calls for Central Americans to engage with regional issues, reminding us that these dark times can change. Serrat is not just performing; he embodies democracy with his artistry and intellect, setting the stage for meaningful conversations.
The festival, a brainchild of exiled Nicaraguan writer Sergio Ramírez, symbolizes hope for democracy. Despite facing persecution, writers like Ramírez and Gioconda Belli hold steadfast to the dream of returning to a free and thriving Central America. Their words paint a picture of a future where democracy flourishes like a vibrant bloom against a stark backdrop of repression.
The event promises an array of cultural experiences, from workshops and book presentations to powerful discussions on democracy and human rights. Set to unfold from May 19 to 24, 2025, it will honor the late Miguel Ángel Asturias, adding depth to this literary communion. Guatemala will once again serve as a beacon, reshaping its image from one of turmoil to a haven for literary celebration.
The Central America Cuenta festival is a significant platform that champions democracy and human rights in a region plagued by political turmoil. With Nicaragua’s recent constitutional reform consolidating authoritarian power, the festival serves as a critical reflection of the challenges faced by Central Americans. Claudia Neira’s leadership and vision aim to transform the narrative of Central America from one overshadowed by dictatorships to a region rich in literary and cultural significance. Founded by exiled author Sergio Ramírez, this event establishes a connection between literature and the struggle for freedom.
Ultimately, the Central America Cuenta festival encapsulates the essence of hope and the relentless pursuit of democracy. Through the collective power of literature, discussions, and the participation of influential figures, the festival not only mirrors the struggles of Central Americans but also ignites a vision for a future filled with possibility. As writers and thinkers gather to celebrate and reflect, the event becomes both a tribute to past struggles and a beacon of hope for the democratic dreams that lie ahead.
