What a day the Glimpsers had today! They started off their day having in depth conversations about culture, reflecting on their own while also considering how it influences their perceptions of Dominican culture. We discussed the mixture that makes up Dominican identity (African, Spanish, and Indigenous). This was a perfect way to get them thinking as we visited a local artisan community that produces “Munecas sin rostros” (dolls without faces). There, students got to learn about the dolls which symbolize the mixture of Dominican society; they have no face, because there is no one identity of Dominican people. Students even got to make their own dolls with local artisans in their workshops.
Upon return to the hostel, students were enthusiastic to participate in a Merengue and Bachata dance class led by two local young men from the community. Each student showed off their moves and had a great time dancing the afternoon away. Some of our students even got to show off their break dancing moves for the teachers who were more than excited to learn this piece of American culture.
In the words of our passionate Glimpsers, “Today was the best day ever! I wish we could rewind the whole day!”
Greetings my fellow american students 🙂 So “Muñecas Sin Rostros”ha? It does illustrate the point well. A culture who is a mixture of many! I say many as I recently learned the Spanish culture here in America(The continent), is a mixture of Spanish and Jewish! How about that? And you all had your chances to make a muñeca as well? Nice! I wonder how creative you guys got?! Wish I could see more pictures.– Oh well, this is Roberto Saravia, Bianey’s dad and want to say Bianey that I also miss you very much and can only wish that I could be there absorbing the Dominicanos’ culture as much as you all are and eating their great caribbean food they got! (Se me hace agua la boca!). Mom and Jackie say hi to you and even Benjita said (wouff)hi! as well! Take good care and treasure your exciting trip okay! -Dad.
Looks like so much fun! I wish I was there to see you dance Alyssa lol. I miss you more and more everyday and I’m counting the days until you return. I love you so much babe!
SimonMoo, we miss your cooking here in San Jose.
I glad every one had fun dancing.Love you starr. the Lakers play tonight.;)