1. Costa Rica

Voices of the Caribbean

Afro-Costa Ricans Move Towards Empowerment and Equality

Photos by Markus Brown

by | Apr 20, 2024

 

Colorful clothing continues to be a culture of life for Afro-Costa Ricans.

Dawn begins to appear on the coast of Cocles in the Costa Rican Caribbean and the first rays of the sun reflect on the sea. With an invitation from the Brown Hudson family, local residents who are proud Afro-Caribbeans, I am on my way to a journey of discovery and connection. The visit, which reflects the hope and heritage of generations, takes me beyond the limits of my official role as Presidential Commissioner for Social Inclusion, towards a path where the country’s history marks the journey.

The Browns, with their radiant smiles, welcome me to their colorful home—a place imbued with children’s laughter and the aromas of tropical sea breezes and flowers. We dedicate ourselves to the ritual of preparing rondon, a seafood dish with coconut milk that is truly a delight as well as a cultural legacy. Albert Brown Hudson and his daughter, Regina, with hands that speak about their bond with the land, dig up yampĂ­ and yucca from their garden. His young son, already a skilled fisherman and diver, is in charge of scaling the day’s catch on the coral reef, while neighbor Patric Lewis watches from his porch, a sentinel of ancient wisdom and descendant of the founding families of Cocles. I see in this family the opportunities and challenges I confront in my official post: health, education, digital connections and economic growth, among others.

This day transcends the limits of mere festivity. It is a journey where Sara Brown Hudson, the matriarch of the family, weaves stories from memory and tradition. They remember their ancestors like Enrique Downer and Margarita Tylor, who once danced on these same sands. “We buried our ancestors in the beach cemetery right over there next to Dora, Whitman Brown, Miss Rinie’s sisters and cousin,” says Sara Brown. These stories, more than just memories of a distant past, reflect the identity and resilience of a community.

The Browns, in complete honesty, express their fears of displacement. Their ancestral lands are in the crosshairs of legal uncertainties and administrative decrees. Their concerns, raw and unfiltered, are a reflection of a community at the crossroads of history and modernity, deeply rooted, but afraid of uncertainty.  The situation is caused by a complex and contentious process of delineating the boundaries of indigenous reserves in Talamanca, Costa Rica, specifically focusing on the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve. Initially, through a series of executive decrees between 1976 and 1977, certain lands were designated as part of the Talamanca Indigenous Reserve, including what was to become the Cocles Indigenous Reserve. These decrees inadvertently included lands owned by Afro-Caribbean communities and other non-Indigenous people, leading to a significant alteration in the land rights and boundaries affecting these communities.

In 1996, the government recognized the error in including the Afro-Caribbean and non-Indigenous lands within the Indigenous reserve and issued a decree to release 1,244 hectares (3,025 acres) of this land. However, as compensation for the mistake, the Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve was later expanded, creating further complexities and conflicts over land rights.

This situation has profound implications for the community of African descent that has lived in the region for generations. The Afro-Caribbean community, which had historically occupied these lands, found their property rights and ancestral lands caught in the crossfire of governmental decisions aimed at rectifying previous administrative errors. The expansion of the Indigenous reserve into areas traditionally inhabited by Afro-Caribbeans, without clear compensation or consideration for the existing community, has led to disputes and tensions between Indigenous peoples and Afro-descendant communities. Both groups, having coexisted in harmony, now face a scenario of conflict over land rights and cultural heritage preservation.

The restitution of lands as per the 2019 court ruling, which confirmed the expanded boundaries of the Indigenous reserve while maintaining compensation areas, has only further complicated the situation. The Afro-Caribbean community is affected by these legal and administrative decisions, as their historical lands and living spaces are encroached upon, potentially leading to displacement and loss of cultural identity. This situation underscores the challenges of balancing the rights and interests of indigenous communities with those of Afro-descendant populations, highlighting the need for careful, inclusive and fair policy-making that respects the histories and rights of all communities involved.

The matter was complicated by the December 12, 2019, resolution of the Costa Rican Supreme Court of Justice. This ruling directs the state to return territories of Cocles and part of Puerto Viejo to the Kekoldi indigenous reserve, and to expropriate and compensate the area inhabitants. In addition to the long-time Afro-Costa Ricans who have lived on this land for centuries, some foreigners ownluxury hotels and restaurants, and have sought legal help with their embassies. The government does not have money for compensation, but beyond the monetary question, the court ruling overlooks the history and culture of the area’s Afrodescendants.

In these moments where people show their vulnerability, I feel the weight of my role and the responsibility of being a channel of understanding and empathy. The words of Sara resonates with  me: Our land and stories are more than memories of the past; They are the heartbeat of our community, our identity and history. Her insights remind me of my sacred duty to listen, understand and advocate for those whose voices are often forgotten in the echo chambers of power.

During our exchanges, Sara Brown Hudson shared with me her unwavering faith in peaceful resolutions, “We have lived in harmony with nature and our indigenous neighbors,” she told me, “for generations, we have lived in peace with nature and the indigenous people who live in the mountains. “They come down to help us pick cocoa, and then they return to the mountain when the work is done.” This harmony is symbolized in their tradition of planting red flowers along property lines, a practice that has deep cultural significance; These flowers, marking the limits of their lands, speak of a time and an ethic where fences were unnecessary, where respect and courtesy were the pillars of community coexistence. This tradition is a profound message and representative of its community: in Cocles, peace and respect are not just ideals, but a way of life, deeply rooted in the land of its history and the soul of its community.

As the sun disappears, painting the sky in shades of crimson and gold, I leave the Brown residence. I take memories with me; I carry a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to the heartbeat of this Afro-Caribbean community. Above all, I leave with a promise to honor their heritage and address their concerns with the dignity and respect that they deserve.

This day is a reminder that true understanding transcends official titles and bureaucratic procedures. This is a story of resilience, of a community that, despite the uncertainties of the future, continues to dance to the rhythm of its music, its roots, forever intertwined with the soul of Cocles.

As night falls on Cocles, I am reminded that my role as a commissioner cannot only remain in policies and decisions. It is about understanding the heart of a community, building bridges and generating agreements between all the parties that coexist in the community. Ensure that the human experience is honored and preserved. This journey with the Browns and the broader Afro-Caribbean community of Cocles is a poignant reminder of the power of empathy, understanding and the unbreakable bond between people and their land.

Cocles is a mere speck of the province of Limón on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, where we find the largest concentration of the Afro-Costa Rican community.  The Costa Rican population has 11.7% of Afro-descendant genetic heritage. This percentage is higher in the Caribbean, reaching 30%, 14% in the Guanacaste region, 8% in the southern zone, and 6% in the Central Valley, according to the 2011 census. Twelve percent of Costa Ricans identify as people of African descent As Commissioner of Social Inclusion of the Republic of Costa Rica, I have had the profound honor of advocating and working alongside this vibrant community with thousands of families like the Browns.

Initial Challenges and the Path to Inclusion

The history of this community is intertwined with the history of our nation.

The waves of Jamaican immigrants who arrived on our shores at the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century have faced a multitude of challenges from systemic discrimination to economic disparities. The community of African descent in Costa Rica primarily arrived due to recruitment for work in a particular area: the construction of the Atlantic Railroad and the development of the banana plantations. This migration began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Workers were mainly recruited from the Caribbean, especially from Jamaica, to work on these labor-intensive projects. The construction of the railroad, which was aimed at connecting the capital, San José, with the Caribbean port of Limón, and the subsequent boom in the banana industry, created a demand for labor that could not be met locally. The Afro-Caribbean workers were brought in both for their expertise and the sheer need for labor.

There were restrictions on movement for the Afro-Caribbean population in Costa Rica, for a significant period, there were legal and social restrictions that limited their mobility within the country. Specifically, until 1949, Blacks were prohibited by law from traveling beyond the Atlantic coastal areas to other parts of Costa Rica, including San JosĂ©. This restriction was part of a broader set of legal and social discriminations faced by the Afrodescendant community in Costa Rica. The law reflected the racial segregation policies of the time, which aimed to limit the integration of Afro-Caribbean workers into the broader Costa Rican society. It wasn’t until after the abolition of these laws, following the 1948 Civil War and the drafting of a new constitution in 1949, that Afro-Caribbeans could move freely within the country.

In recent years, our government has attempted to provide significant solutions to address these challenges. As a principle, we recognize the crucial need for inclusive policies and programs that not only recognize the special history and needs of the Afro-Costa Rican population but also to celebrate and enhance their contributions to our nation.

Educational Initiatives: A Door to Opportunity

Education is a fundamental pillar in our search for social inclusion and empowerment. These communities frequently face barriers to high-quality educational resources, such as a lack of teachers and extracurricular activities that are crucial for a comprehensive learning experience. Economic instability further compounds these issues, as it forces children from historically marginalized backgrounds to balance supporting their family’s income with their educational responsibilities, often in environments that are not conducive to studying. Additionally, the extent of cultural representation within the curriculum plays a critical role in student engagement and success. A curriculum that fails to reflect the history, culture and perspectives of minority students can lead to disengagement and a sense of alienation. This situation is exacerbated by experiences of racial discrimination and bias, which not only hinder academic motivation but can also have detrimental effects on the mental health of Afrodescendant students, potentially resulting in lower academic achievements and increased dropout rates. Together, these factors create a complex web of challenges that require comprehensive and culturally sensitive educational policies to address effectively.

Costa Rica faced challenges in maintaining educational continuity during the pandemic. The shift to remote learning highlighted and possibly exacerbated existing inequalities in education due to differences in access to technology, internet connectivity, and supportive learning environments at home. Marginalized communities, including those of Afrodescendant populations, have been particularly affected by these challenges, potentially leading to declines in learning outcomes. This pattern mirrors the global trend where COVID-19 has disproportionately affected marginalized communities, including those of African descent, in various aspects, including health, economic stability and education.

In collaboration with private educational institutions, we began an ambitious project to provide scholarships to marginalized groups, including Afrodescendants. This initiative provides access to education through promoting self-sufficiency and consolidation of these communities.

Our partnership with the COSVIC Institute, a Costa Rican educational service provider with more than 30 years of market presence, is dedicated to training professionals in a wide range of academic and technical fields that utilize active teaching methods, modern facilities, multidisciplinary projects, and talent discovery initiatives. With 22 locations nationwide, it offers over 80 career paths, including INA-accredited courses and online classes has provided 800 full scholarships in academics, as a testament to this commitment. These scholarships are financial lifelines for people who have long been denied opportunities to study because of their origin or economic status. Approximately half of these scholarships are intended for Afro-descendants.

Empowerment through Training, Technique and Employment

Beyond traditional education, we recognize the importance of vocational training and employment opportunities. We have focused on developing technical training programs in dozens of fields that have a high demand for employment, providing the appropriate skills to succeed in the labor market in fields such as Criminology, Automotive Electricity, Barber Shop, Patient Assistant, Professional Beauty and Veterinary Assistant.

Through the commissioner’s office, the government offers one to two-year technical courses through the National Apprenticeship Institute, equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills. We facilitate graduates’ transition to the world of work, partnering with the Business Agency for Development, with more than 100 companies throughout the country.

Young people and women are a great focus in our inclusion work. By providing them with tools and opportunities to succeed, we create future leaders in our country. This includes leadership training programs, mentoring opportunities, and support for women entrepreneurs. Working to strengthen these specific groups is key to building a more equitable society. We are achieving it with civil associations like Afro-Costa Rica.  This Information Initiative by people of African descent aims to address the information gap affecting Costa Rica’s marginalized Afro-descendant communities by promoting awareness of their rights, resources, and historical legacies. This initiative focuses on elevating Afrodescendant communities within Costa Rica and aims to connect with Afrodescendant communities globally, enhancing cultural understanding and fostering unity.

Internet Access: Closing the Digital Divide

In today’s digital age, having access to the Internet is recognized as a fundamental aspect of third-generation human rights. We are committed to bridging the digital divide, particularly in regions like Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, where many families of African descent like the Browns face limited internet connectivity. By prioritizing the expansion of internet services in the area, we aim not only to uphold the recognized human right to digital access but also to empower communities with the tools necessary for education, health, economic growth and social inclusion, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage and potential of these communities are not left behind in our rapidly advancing digital world. Through the collaboration between my office, the Municipality of LimĂłn, and national cable companies, we are ensuring that high-speed Internet is not a luxury, but a basic service accessible to all, with the collaboration of the Ministry of Science and Technology. This work is ongoing the satellite internet program will encompass all the coastal regions and Talmanca.

Sports: A platform for Inclusion and Unity

Sports, particularly soccer, play a significant role in Costa Rican culture, and we believe they can be a powerful vehicle to promote inclusion and combat racism. The recent incident in the Costa Rican Soccer Federation (FedefĂștbol), in which a coach of a soccer team’s from the first division was sanctioned for racist behavior, highlighting the ongoing challenges we face.  However, it also shows our commitment to tackling these issues head-on. The recognition of this action by the United Nations and the undersigned Commissioner accentuates the importance of establishing a procedure on how racism should be addressed in sports and society in general. In the realm of sports, incidents of racism that have come to light are currently under scrutiny. One such incident involves a player from a top-division football team who has been accused of racially abusing another player by calling him a “monkey.” This case is now under active investigation. Recognizing the severity of this issue, I am actively involved in leading efforts to combat racism in sports. I’m coordinating the establishment of a special commission, which will be regulated by the Ministry of Security, aiming to eliminate racism within the sporting community. I am spearheading this initiative and plan to announce more details about our efforts as we progress. Sport continues to be a powerful tool for social change. Beyond the recent sanction of FedefĂștbol, we are using sports to unite communities, to teach work which values teamwork and respect and to provide constructive activities for young people. Our sports programs are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to participate and excel.

The Puerto Viejo women’s team is an example of gender equality in sports and non-discrimination against Afro-descendant women.

The Women’s Soccer Project in Puerto Viejo, LimĂłn, is an emblem of social progress and female empowerment in the southern Caribbean of Costa Rica, standing out for its Afro-descendant heritage. One of the main owners of Puerto Viejo Football Club is a woman of African descent native to Puerto Viejo, one of the Afro Tribal Towns of Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean. It’s board of directors is composed entirely of women of African descent, the team stands as the first women’s First-division team in Puerto Viejo, strengthening the leadership and participation of women both on the field and in sports management. This project transcends the sports field, promoting the cultural and social development of the region, promoting gender equality and providing young women with a space to grow in leadership skills. It represents transformative change and is a symbol of pride, reflecting the diversity and legacy of the people of African descent.

Decree No. 43532 – Acknowledgment of Self-Recognition of the Afro-Costa Rican Population as a Tribal People.

The Afrodescendant Tribal People’s Forum of Costa Rica is a consultative, dialogue and coordination body between the Afro-Costa Rican tribal people and the state, national and international organizations, to follow up on, and enforce human rights recognized in the International Labor Organization’s Convention No. 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and other international human rights instruments applicable to tribal Afrodescendant peoples such as the Action Program and Declaration of the Third World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance; the Montevideo Consensus on Population and Development; the International Decade for People of African Descent; the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the recent creation of the Permanent Forum of People of African Descent of the United Nations under resolution No. A/75/L.119.

Heritage, Tradition and Modernity

An important factor in promoting diversity and legacy is the stimulation of traditional activities—which can be a spur to tourism and the creation of economic activities. The Wolaba Parade celebration, for instance, takes place in August, in which Black People and Afro-descendant Culture Month is commemorated. During this time, our Afro roots are celebrated and recognized. And this festival in particular highlights the uniqueness of the local Afro tribal people, along with their connection to the sea and land as an intrinsic aspect of their cultural identity.

The Grand Gala Parade in LimĂłn is another spectacular display of the culture and spirit of the Afro-Costa Rican community. The Costa Rican government declared this parade an Intangible Cultural Heritage of the country, thus reaffirming the importance of the parade within the national cultural sphere and also opening the doors for public institutions to collaborate in its realization, promotion, and dissemination.

The origin of this celebration dates back to the First International Convention on the Status of Negroes in August 1920. This was an international event, which brought together delegates from 25 countries on four continents in New York City. Here “The Declaration on the Rights of Negroes” was proclaimed, which laid the foundations for the fight against racial inequality and discrimination. This marked a pivotal moment in the global recognition and protection of the rights of black people. In the 80s, in Costa Rica, August 31 was decreed as the celebration of “Black Day,” an initiative that was promoted by the Costa Rican Educators Union (SEC). Years later, an extension of the celebration was decreed as the “Day of the Black Person and Afro-Costa Rican Culture.”

The parade showcases the sounds of music, the aromas of local cuisine, the vibrant colors of traditional clothing and the joyful spirit of its people who dance to the music. Just as we observe traditional dances that tell stories of ancestors and heritage, there are also contemporary rhythms that speak of current struggles and triumphs. The parade is a confluence of past and present.

The future of the Grand Gala Parade looks brighter than ever thanks to this new recognition granted by the government. It is presented as an opportunity to educate, inspire and unify. It is a chance for the younger generations to connect with their heritage and for the community nationally and internationally to understand and appreciate the richness of Afro-Costa Rican culture.

Socialization starting in childhood is an essential act in Afro-descendant cultural transmission.

Creating Economic Roads in LimĂłn

The province of LimĂłn, with its large Afro-Caribbean community, was our great driving force for the initiatives. The objective is to address immediate needs, but above all to establish the

bases for sustainable economic development. To achieve this, we focus on individual employment as well as on cultivating an environment where businesses can thrive. For example, the Free Trade Zone in BĂșfalo de LimĂłn creates a multiplier effect on employment opportunities, which means inclusion. In LimĂłn, we have initiated programs to promote local entrepreneurship, especially among young people and women, through training from the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Trade. By providing early-stage funding, mentoring, and networking opportunities, we are empowering a new generation of business leaders.

A key aspect of our strategy for social inclusion is to involve the private sector. We are working with companies to encourage them to hire a percentage of our population so that their representation is increasingly higher each year. This initiative fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion within the private sector, making it an active participant in our nation’s journey toward greater equality.

This approach is designed to revitalize LimĂłn’s economy from within, creating a large local market that can contribute significantly to the national economic landscape. Puerto LimĂłn stands as a pivotal city on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, acting as the country’s primary conduit for trade and commerce. Beyond its significant Free Trade Zone, which bolsters the local economy, the city thrives through tourism, agriculture, a robust fishing industry and manufacturing, both within and outside the Free Trade Zone. Additionally, the city’s role in transportation and logistics is indispensable for international trade, managing a substantial volume of cargo that drives the economy. Furthermore, the services sector, encompassing retail, hospitality, healthcare, and education, serves the dual purpose of catering to residents and visitors alike. Collectively, these sectors underscore the economic diversity and significance of Puerto LimĂłn as a crucial economic hub in Costa Rica, leveraging its strategic position, natural resources, and infrastructure to foster growth and development.

Future Visions: Marina and International Airport Projects

Looking to the future, we can see LimĂłn transforming into a center of commerce and international tourism. Plans for a new marina and international airport are in march, inspired by successful models from other regions such as Guanacaste, in the north of the country. These projects are about economic growth, but above all they involve opening LimĂłn to the world, thus being able to show its rich culture and provide new opportunities for its residents. This year, it is anticipated that the analysis of factors such as wave patterns will occupy a significant amount of time, focusing exclusively on the LimĂłn International Airport.

The city of LimĂłn, unlike the region surrounding it, is characterized as the least visited by foreign tourists, mainly due to a lack of adequate tourist infrastructure, such as hotels and other essential elements for tourism. This deficit has motivated the creation of the Caribbean coastal project, which seeks to define the necessary public and private investments to enhance tourism in the area. Currently, tourism in LimĂłn is limited, and significant growth is not projected without the presence of a functional airport, the completion of Highway 32, and the development of tourist infrastructure that meets the current demands of the sector.

The challenges to promoting tourism and international commerce in LimĂłn include creating suitable tourist infrastructure and developing attractive tourist products. Although LimĂłn attracts visitors from cruise ships who come for a few hours a day during the season, the excursions take them to places like Tortuguero in the North, and Cahuita, Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo in the southern parts of the Caribbean Coast, the center of LimĂłn and other districts of the province which face precarious situations in tourism terms. This underscores the urgent need for improvements and developments to revitalize tourism and commerce in the region. In all our development initiatives, we are aware of the environmental impact they can generate. LimĂłn, with its lush tropical jungles and paradisiacal beaches, is a natural treasure that must be preserved.

A notable aspect of African descent is its pacifism, as revealed by the woman’s gaze in the graph.

Empowerment through Advisory Committees

The Social Inclusion Consultative Committee made up of civil society and government representatives, which I chair, serves as a platform for dialogue and decision-making, ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard at the higher levels of government. This committee is a place to consult as an active participant in the formation of policies that affect the lives of Costa Ricans in all countries.

With the Afrodescendant liaisons, before their service term expired, among other actions, meetings were requested with the Ministry of Education to address the renovation of the Puerto Viejo high school, which is currently being rebuilt; the funds are located in Kekoldi. The advisory committee allows civil society to bring concerns and problems to the table of the commissioner. There were two meetings with the Minister of Public Works and Public Transport concerning the Afrodescendant liaisons to discuss progress on the airport project. This effort is seen as bringing institutional support to local territories and providing responses to the community. The Civic Committee of LimĂłn asked me as commissioner to facilitate connections with the government, a request made by the committee similar to the one made by the Wolaba Parade committee. I believe that cultural expression highlights Afrodescendancy. Failing to respond or intentionally creating barriers by denying permits, engaging in bureaucratic red tape, or employing other tactics to suppress cultural expression constitutes a direct attack on Afrodescendant identity, effectively erasing their visibility and perpetuating discrimination.

A Commitment to Continuous Progress

As we move forward, it is crucial to remember that social inclusion is an ongoing journey, not a destination. The progress we have made in LimĂłn and throughout Costa Rica is significant, but there is still a lot of work to do. Through ongoing collaboration, innovation and a deep commitment to equality, we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. Our goal is to create a Costa Rica where all people have the opportunity to succeed and the same opportunities. Therefore, I invite every Costa Rican, from all walks of life, to join in this inclusive endeavor, in this journey of equal opportunities. Only through our collective efforts, we can create lasting change. Whether you are a student, an entrepreneur, a health professional or a community leader, you have a role to play in building a more inclusive Costa Rica. And so does the international community.

As Commissioner for Social Inclusion, I am committed to continuing these efforts, working tirelessly to ensure that every Costa Rican, regardless of their ancestry, has the opportunity to live a life of dignity and purpose. Together, we are writing a new chapter in our nation’s history, a chapter of hope, inclusion and progress for people like the Browns.

 

Ricardo Sossa Ortiz serves as Costa Rica’s Social Inclusion Commissioner and an advisor to the President of the Republic. He is a passionate advocate for cultural diversity and inclusivity, committed to delving into the Afro-Costa Rican experience via thorough research and active involvement with the community. Sossa-Ortiz comes from a rich educational background with a Bachelor’s degree in journalism from Costa Rica, a master’s in political science, and a Ph.D. in Sociology, from the University of Paris, France. 

His humanitarian work has been recognized through an honorary doctorate (honoris causa) awarded in San José, Costa Rica in 2023.

Voces del Caribe

Los afrocostarricenses avanzan hacia el empoderamiento y la igualdad

Por Ricardo Sossa Ortiz

Fotos de Markus Brown

 

El colorido en la vestimenta continúa siendo una cultura de vida para afrocostarricenses.

Comienza a amanecer en la costa de Cocles, en el Caribe costarricense y los primeros rayos del sol se reflejan en el mar. Con una invitación de la familia Brown Hudson, residentes locales que son orgullosos afrocaribeños, estoy en camino a un viaje de descubrimiento y conexión. La visita, que refleja la esperanza y la herencia de generaciones, me lleva mås allå de los límites de mi papel oficial como Comisionado Presidencial para la Inclusión Social, hacia un camino donde la historia del país marca el camino.

Los Brown, con sus radiantes sonrisas, me dan la bienvenida a su colorida casa, un lugar impregnado de risas infantiles y aromas de flores y brisas marinas tropicales. Nos dedicamos al ritual de preparar el rondón , un plato de mariscos con leche de coco que es verdaderamente una delicia ademås de un legado cultural.

Albert Brown Hudson y su hija Regina, con manos que hablan de su vínculo con la tierra, arrancan yampí y yuca de su jardín. Su pequeño hijo, ya un håbil pescador y buceador, estå a cargo de escalar las capturas del día en el arrecife de coral, mientras el vecino Patric Lewis observa desde su porche, centinela de la sabiduría antigua y descendiente de las familias fundadoras de Cocles. Veo en esta familia las oportunidades y desafíos que enfrento en mi cargo oficial: salud, educación, conexiones digitales y crecimiento económico, entre otros.

Este día trasciende los límites de la mera festividad. Es un viaje donde Sara Brown Hudson, la matriarca de la familia, teje historias desde la memoria y la tradición. Recuerdan a sus antepasados ​​como Enrique Downer y Margarita Tylor, quienes alguna vez bailaron en estas mismas arenas.

“Enterramos a nuestros antepasados ​​en el cementerio de la playa, justo al lado de Dora, Whitman Brown, las hermanas y la prima de la señorita Rinie”, dice Sara Brown. Estas historias, mĂĄs que simples recuerdos de un pasado lejano, reflejan la identidad y la resiliencia de una comunidad.

Los Brown, con total honestidad, expresan sus temores de desplazamiento. Sus tierras ancestrales estĂĄn en el punto de mira de inseguridades jurĂ­dicas y decretos administrativos. Sus preocupaciones, crudas y sin filtros, son el reflejo de una comunidad en la encrucijada de la historia y la modernidad, profundamente arraigada, pero temerosa de la incertidumbre.

La situación es causada por un proceso complejo y polémico de delimitación de los límites de las reservas indígenas en Talamanca, Costa Rica, centråndose específicamente en la Reserva Indígena Kekoldi. Inicialmente, a través de una serie de decretos ejecutivos entre 1976 y 1977, ciertas tierras fueron designadas como parte de la Reserva Indígena de Talamanca, incluida lo que se convertiría en la Reserva Indígena Cocles. Estos decretos incluyeron, inadvertidamente, tierras propiedad de comunidades afrocaribeñas y otros pueblos no indígenas, lo que provocó una alteración significativa en los derechos y límites territoriales que afectaban a estas comunidades.

En 1996, el gobierno reconoció el error al incluir las tierras afrocaribeñas y no indígenas dentro de la reserva indígena y emitió un decreto para liberar 1.244 hectåreas (3.025 acres) de estas tierras. Sin embargo, como compensación por el error, la Reserva Indígena Kekoldi se amplió posteriormente, lo que generó mås complejidades y conflictos sobre los derechos a la tierra.

Esta situación tiene profundas implicaciones para la comunidad afrodescendiente que ha vivido en la región durante generaciones. La comunidad afrocaribeña, que históricamente había ocupado estas tierras, encontró sus derechos de propiedad y tierras ancestrales atrapados en el fuego cruzado de decisiones gubernamentales destinadas a rectificar errores administrativos anteriores. La expansión de la reserva indígena a åreas tradicionalmente habitadas por afrocaribeños, sin una compensación o consideración clara para la comunidad existente, ha generado disputas y tensiones entre los pueblos indígenas y las comunidades afrodescendientes. Ambos grupos, que han coexistido en armonía, ahora enfrentan un escenario de conflicto por los derechos a la tierra y la preservación del patrimonio cultural.

La restituciĂłn de tierras, segĂșn el fallo judicial de 2019, que confirmĂł los lĂ­mites ampliados de la reserva indĂ­gena manteniendo las ĂĄreas de compensaciĂłn, solo ha complicado aĂșn mĂĄs la situaciĂłn. La comunidad afrocaribeña se ve afectada por estas decisiones legales y administrativas, ya que sus tierras histĂłricas y espacios de vida son invadidos, lo que potencialmente conduce al desplazamiento y la pĂ©rdida de identidad cultural. Esta situaciĂłn subraya los desafĂ­os de equilibrar los derechos e intereses de las comunidades indĂ­genas con los de las poblaciones afrodescendientes, destacando la necesidad de una formulaciĂłn de polĂ­ticas cuidadosas, inclusivas y justas que respete las historias y los derechos de todas las comunidades involucradas.

El asunto se complicĂł con la resoluciĂłn del 12 de diciembre de 2019 de la Corte Suprema de Justicia de Costa Rica. Este fallo ordena al Estado devolver los territorios de Cocles y parte de Puerto Viejo a la reserva indĂ­gena Kekoldi, y expropiar e indemnizar a los habitantes de la zona. AdemĂĄs de los afrocostarricenses que han vivido en esta tierra durante siglos, algunos extranjeros poseen hoteles y restaurantes de lujo y han buscado ayuda legal en sus embajadas. El gobierno no tiene dinero para compensar, pero mĂĄs allĂĄ de la cuestiĂłn monetaria, el fallo judicial pasa por alto la historia y la cultura de los afrodescendientes de la zona.

En estos momentos donde las personas muestran su vulnerabilidad, siento el peso de mi funciĂłn y la responsabilidad de ser un canal de comprensiĂłn y empatĂ­a.

Las palabras de Sara resuenan en mĂ­: nuestra tierra y nuestras historias son mĂĄs que recuerdos del pasado; son el latido de nuestra comunidad, nuestra identidad e historia. Sus ideas me recuerdan mi deber sagrado de escuchar, comprender y defender a aquellos cuyas voces a menudo se olvidan en las cĂĄmaras de eco del poder.

Durante nuestros intercambios, Sara Brown Hudson compartiĂł conmigo su fe inquebrantable en las resoluciones pacĂ­ficas: “Hemos vivido en armonĂ­a con la naturaleza y nuestros vecinos indĂ­genas”, me reitera, “durante generaciones, hemos vivido en paz con la naturaleza y los pueblos indĂ­genas” que viven en las montañas. “Bajan para ayudarnos a recoger cacao y luego regresan a la montaña cuando terminan el trabajo”. Esta armonĂ­a estĂĄ simbolizada en su tradiciĂłn de plantar flores rojas a lo largo de los lĂ­mites de propiedad, una prĂĄctica que tiene un profundo significado cultural; estas flores, que marcan los lĂ­mites de sus tierras, hablan de una Ă©poca y una Ă©tica donde los cercos eran innecesarios, donde el respeto y la cortesĂ­a eran los pilares de la convivencia comunitaria. Esta tradiciĂłn es un mensaje profundo y representativo de su comunidad: en Cocles, la paz y el respeto no son sĂłlo ideales, sino una forma de vida, profundamente arraigada en la tierra de su historia y el alma de su comunidad.

Cuando el sol desaparece, pintando el cielo en tonos carmesí y dorado, salgo de la residencia Brown. Me llevo recuerdos conmigo. Llevo un renovado sentido de propósito y compromiso con el corazón de esta comunidad afrocaribeña. Por encima de todo, me voy con la promesa de honrar su herencia y abordar sus preocupaciones con la dignidad y el respeto que merecen.

Este dĂ­a es un recordatorio de que la verdadera comprensiĂłn trasciende los tĂ­tulos oficiales y los procedimientos burocrĂĄticos. Esta es una historia de resiliencia, de una comunidad que, a pesar de las incertidumbres del futuro, sigue bailando al ritmo de su mĂșsica, de sus raĂ­ces, entrelazadas para siempre con el alma de Cocles.

Al caer la noche en Cocles, recuerdo que mi papel como comisionado no puede limitarse a políticas y decisiones. Se trata de entender el corazón de una comunidad, tender puentes y generar acuerdos entre todas las partes que conviven en la comunidad. Garantizar que la experiencia humana sea honrada y preservada. Este viaje con los Brown y la comunidad afrocaribeña de Cocles en general es un recordatorio conmovedor del poder de la empatía, la comprensión y el vínculo inquebrantable entre las personas y su tierra.

Cocles es una mera partĂ­cula de la provincia de LimĂłn en la costa caribeña de Costa Rica, donde encontramos la mayor concentraciĂłn de la comunidad afrocostarricense. La poblaciĂłn costarricense tiene un 11,7% de herencia genĂ©tica afrodescendiente. Este porcentaje es mayor en el Caribe, alcanzando el 30%, el 14% en la regiĂłn de Guanacaste, el 8% en la zona sur y el 6% en el Valle Central, segĂșn el censo de 2011. El doce por ciento de los costarricenses se identifica como personas de ascendencia africana.

Como Comisionado de InclusiĂłn Social de la RepĂșblica de Costa Rica, he tenido el profundo honor de defender y trabajar junto a esta vibrante comunidad con decenas de familias como los Brown.

DesafĂ­os iniciales y el camino hacia la inclusiĂłn

La historia de esta comunidad estĂĄ entrelazada con la historia de nuestra NaciĂłn.

Las oleadas de inmigrantes jamaicanos que llegaron a nuestras costas a finales del siglo XIX y principios del XX han enfrentado una multitud de desafíos, desde la discriminación sistémica hasta las disparidades económicas. La comunidad afrodescendiente a Costa Rica llegó principalmente por reclutamiento para trabajar en un årea particular: la construcción del Ferrocarril Atlåntico y el desarrollo de las plantaciones bananeras. Esta migración se inició a finales del siglo XIX y principios del XX. Los trabajadores fueron reclutados principalmente del Caribe, especialmente de Jamaica, para trabajar en estos proyectos intensivos en mano de obra. La construcción del ferrocarril, que tenía como objetivo conectar la capital, San José, con el puerto caribeño de Limón, y el posterior auge de la industria bananera, crearon una demanda de mano de obra que no se podía satisfacer localmente. Los trabajadores afrocaribeños fueron contratados tanto por su experiencia como por la absoluta necesidad de mano de obra.

Existieron restricciones de movimiento para la población afrocaribeña en Costa Rica, durante un período hubo limitaciones legales y sociales que impedían su movilidad dentro del país. Específicamente, hasta 1949, la ley prohibía a los negros y negras viajar mås allå de las zonas costeras del Atlåntico a otras partes de Costa Rica, incluido San José. Esta restricción fue parte de un conjunto mås amplio de discriminaciones legales y sociales que enfrentó la comunidad afrodescendiente en Costa Rica.

La ley reflejaba las políticas de segregación racial de la época, que tenían como objetivo limitar la integración de los trabajadores afrocaribeños en la sociedad costarricense en general. No fue hasta después de la abolición de estas leyes, tras la Guerra Civil de 1948 y la redacción de una nueva constitución en 1949, que los afrocaribeños pudieron moverse libremente dentro del país.

En los Ășltimos años, nuestro Gobierno ha brindado soluciones significativas para abordar estos desafĂ­os. Como principio, reconocemos la necesidad crucial de polĂ­ticas y programas inclusivos que no sĂłlo reconozcan la historia y las necesidades especiales de la poblaciĂłn afrocostarricense sino que tambiĂ©n celebren y mejoren sus contribuciones a nuestro paĂ­s.

Iniciativas educativas: una puerta a la oportunidad

La educaciĂłn es un pilar fundamental en nuestra bĂșsqueda de inclusiĂłn y empoderamiento social.

Estas comunidades frecuentemente enfrentan barreras para acceder a recursos educativos de alta calidad, como la falta de maestros y actividades extracurriculares que son cruciales para una experiencia de aprendizaje integral. La inestabilidad econĂłmica agrava aĂșn mĂĄs estos problemas, ya que obliga a la niñez de entornos histĂłricamente marginados a equilibrar el sustento de los ingresos familiares con sus responsabilidades educativas, a menudo en entornos que no son propicios para estudiar. AdemĂĄs, el grado de representaciĂłn cultural dentro del plan de estudios juega un papel fundamental en la participaciĂłn y el Ă©xito de los estudiantes. Un plan de estudios que no refleje la historia, la cultura y las perspectivas de los estudiantes minoritarios puede generar desconexiĂłn y una sensaciĂłn de alienaciĂłn. Al respecto y en ejecuciĂłn de la Ley 10.120, se estĂĄ trabajando en la implementaciĂłn de cursos educativos sobre la herencia, historia y cultura afrodescendiente. Sin embargo, por dĂ©cadas, esta situaciĂłn se ha visto exacerbada por experiencias de discriminaciĂłn y prejuicios raciales, que no solo obstaculizan la motivaciĂłn acadĂ©mica sino que tambiĂ©n pueden tener efectos perjudiciales en la salud mental de estudiantes afrodescendientes, lo que podrĂ­a resultar en menores logros acadĂ©micos y mayores tasas de deserciĂłn escolar. Juntos, estos factores crean una compleja red de desafĂ­os que requieren polĂ­ticas educativas integrales y culturalmente sensibles para abordarlos de manera efectiva.

Costa Rica enfrentĂł desafĂ­os para mantener la continuidad educativa durante la pandemia. El cambio hacia el aprendizaje remoto destacĂł y posiblemente aumentĂł las desigualdades existentes en la educaciĂłn debido a las diferencias en el acceso a la tecnologĂ­a, la conectividad a Internet y los entornos de aprendizaje propicios en el hogar.

Las comunidades marginadas, incluidas las la poblaciĂłn afrodescendiente, se han visto particularmente afectadas por estos desafĂ­os, lo que podrĂ­a conducir a una disminuciĂłn de los resultados del aprendizaje. Este patrĂłn refleja la tendencia mundial en la que la COVID-19 ha afectado desproporcionadamente a las comunidades vulnerabilizadas, incluidas las de ascendencia africana, en diversos aspectos, como la salud, la estabilidad econĂłmica y la educaciĂłn.

En colaboración con instituciones educativas privadas, iniciamos un ambicioso proyecto para brindar becas a grupos marginados, incluidos afrodescendientes. Esta iniciativa brinda acceso a la educación a través de la promoción de la autosuficiencia y la consolidación de estas comunidades.

Nuestra alianza con el Instituto COSVIC, proveedor costarricense de servicios educativos con mås de 30 años de presencia en el mercado, estå dedicada a formar profesionales en una amplia gama de campos académicos y técnicos que utilizan métodos de enseñanza activos, instalaciones modernas, proyectos multidisciplinarios y talento e iniciativas de descubrimiento. Con 22 ubicaciones en todo el país, ofrece mås de 80 carreras técnicas, incluidos cursos acreditados por el INA y clases virtuales, y ha proporcionado 800 becas académicas completas, como testimonio de este compromiso a través de un convenio entre mi oficina de la Presidencia y la institución. Estas becas son un salvavidas financiero para personas a quienes durante mucho tiempo se les ha negado la oportunidad de estudiar debido a su origen o situación económica. Aproximadamente la mitad de estas becas estån destinadas a afrodescendientes.

Hoy, estoy trabajando en un posible convenio con el MTSS para lograr subvenciones económicas a las personas estudiantes en pobreza båsica y pobreza extrema, para que puedan hacer frete a sus gastos propios de cada curso, ya que la beca es de 100%, pero solo a  nivel académico y no logístico.

Empoderamiento a través de la Formación, la Técnica y el Empleo

Mås allå de la educación tradicional, reconocemos la importancia de la formación profesional y las oportunidades de empleo. Nos hemos enfocado en desarrollar programas de formación técnica en decenas de campos que tienen una alta demanda de empleo, brindando las habilidades adecuadas para triunfar en el mercado laboral en campos como criminología, electricidad automotriz, inglés, asistente de paciente, cómputo y otros.

A travĂ©s de la oficina del comisionado, el Gobierno ofrece cursos tĂ©cnicos de uno a dos años a travĂ©s del Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje y el instituto privado COSVIC, equipando a los estudiantes con habilidades prĂĄcticas relevantes para la industria. Facilitamos la transiciĂłn de los egresados ​​al mundo laboral, asociĂĄndonos con el programa emplĂ©ate e iniciando conversaciones con la Agencia Empresarial para el Desarrollo, compuesta por mĂĄs de 100 empresas en todo el paĂ­s.

Los jĂłvenes y las mujeres son un gran foco en nuestro trabajo de inclusiĂłn. Al brindarles herramientas y oportunidades para tener Ă©xito, creamos futuros lĂ­deres y lideresas en nuestro paĂ­s. Esto incluye programas de capacitaciĂłn en liderazgo, oportunidades de tutorĂ­a y apoyo a mujeres empresarias. Trabajar para fortalecer estos grupos especĂ­ficos es clave para construir una sociedad mĂĄs equitativa. Lo estamos logrando con asociaciones civiles como AfroCosta Rica.

Esta iniciativa de formaciĂłn de personas afrodescendientes tiene como objetivo abordar la brecha de informaciĂłn que afecta a las comunidades afrodescendientes marginadas de Costa Rica mediante la promociĂłn de la conciencia sobre sus derechos, recursos y legados histĂłricos. El objetivo de la estrategia se enfoca en elevar a las comunidades afrodescendientes dentro de Costa Rica y tiene como meta conectarse con las comunidades afrodescendientes a nivel mundial, mejorando la comprensiĂłn cultural y fomentando la unidad, lo que favorece la cohesiĂłn social disminuyendo la segregaciĂłn racial en nuestra lucha por la equidad de oportunidades.

Acceso a Internet: cerrar la brecha digital

En la era digital actual, tener acceso a Internet se reconoce como un aspecto fundamental de los derechos humanos de tercera generaciĂłn. Estamos comprometidos a cerrar la brecha digital, particularmente en regiones como la costa caribeña de Costa Rica, donde muchas familias de ascendencia africana como los Brown enfrentan una conectividad limitada a Internet. Al priorizar la expansiĂłn de los servicios de Internet en la zona, pretendemos no solo defender el derecho humano reconocido al acceso digital, sino tambiĂ©n empoderar a las comunidades con las herramientas necesarias para la educaciĂłn, la salud, el crecimiento econĂłmico y la inclusiĂłn social, asegurando que el rico patrimonio cultural y el potencial de estas comunidades no se queden atrĂĄs en nuestro mundo digital en rĂĄpido avance. A travĂ©s de la colaboraciĂłn entre mi oficina, el Municipio de LimĂłn y las compañías nacionales de cable, estamos asegurando que Internet de alta velocidad no sea un lujo, sino un servicio bĂĄsico accesible para todos, con la colaboraciĂłn del Ministerio de Ciencia y TecnologĂ­a. En este trabajo se continĂșa el programa de Internet satelital que abarcarĂĄ todas las regiones costeras y Talmanca.

Deportes: Una plataforma para la InclusiĂłn y la Unidad

Los deportes, particularmente el fĂștbol, ​​juegan un papel importante en la cultura costarricense y creemos que pueden ser un vehĂ­culo poderoso para promover la inclusiĂłn y combatir el racismo.

El reciente incidente en el que el entrenador de un equipo de fĂștbol de primera divisiĂłn fue sancionado por comportamiento racista, pone de relieve los desafĂ­os que enfrentamos actualmente. Sin embargo, tambiĂ©n muestra nuestro compromiso de abordar estas cuestiones de frente. El reconocimiento de esta acciĂłn por parte de las Naciones Unidas y del Comisionado de InclusiĂłn, acentĂșa la importancia de establecer un procedimiento sobre cĂłmo se debe abordar el racismo en el deporte y la sociedad en general.

En el ĂĄmbito deportivo, los incidentes de racismo que han salido a la luz estĂĄn actualmente bajo escrutinio. Uno de esos incidentes involucra a un jugador de un equipo de fĂștbol de primera divisiĂłn que ha sido acusado de abusar racialmente de otro jugador llamĂĄndolo “mono”. Este caso estĂĄ ahora bajo investigaciĂłn activa.

Reconociendo la gravedad de este problema, participo activamente en liderar los esfuerzos para combatir el racismo en los deportes. Hemos reestablecido la comisiĂłn especial, regulada por el Ministerio de Seguridad, cuyo objetivo es abordar el racismo dentro de la comunidad deportiva. Estoy encabezando esta iniciativa y planeo anunciar mĂĄs detalles sobre nuestros esfuerzos a medida que avancemos.

El deporte sigue siendo una poderosa herramienta para el cambio social. MĂĄs allĂĄ de la reciente sanciĂłn a FedefĂștbol, ​​estamos utilizando el deporte para unir comunidades, enseñar un trabajo que valore el trabajo en equipo y el respeto y brindar actividades constructivas para jĂłvenes. Nuestros programas deportivos estĂĄn diseñados para ser inclusivos, asegurando que las personas, independientemente de su origen, tengan la oportunidad de participar y sobresalir.

El equipo femenino de Puerto Viejo es un ejemplo de equidad de género en el deporte y de no discriminación hacia la mujer afrodescendiente.

El Proyecto de FĂștbol Femenino en Puerto Viejo, LimĂłn, es un emblema del progreso social y el empoderamiento femenino en el Caribe sur de Costa Rica, destacĂĄndose por su herencia afrodescendiente. Uno de los principales propietarios del Puerto Viejo Football Club es una mujer de ascendencia africana originaria de Puerto Viejo, uno de los pueblos tribales afro del Caribe sur de Costa Rica. Su directiva estĂĄ compuesta Ă­ntegramente por mujeres afrodescendientes, el equipo se erige como el primer equipo femenino de Primera DivisiĂłn en Puerto Viejo, fortaleciendo el liderazgo y participaciĂłn de las mujeres tanto en la cancha como en la gestiĂłn deportiva. Este proyecto trasciende el ĂĄmbito deportivo, impulsando el desarrollo cultural y social de la regiĂłn, promoviendo la igualdad de gĂ©nero y brindando a las mujeres jĂłvenes un espacio para crecer en habilidades de liderazgo. Representa un cambio transformador y es un sĂ­mbolo de orgullo, que refleja la diversidad y el legado de la poblaciĂłn afrodescendiente.

Decreto N° 43532 – Autorreconocimiento de la Población Afrocostarricense como Pueblo Tribal .

El Foro de Pueblos Tribales Afrodescendientes de Costa Rica es un Ăłrgano de consulta, diĂĄlogo y coordinaciĂłn entre los pueblos tribales afrocostarricenses y el Estado, organismo nacional e internacional, para dar seguimiento y hacer cumplir los derechos humanos reconocidos en el Convenio No. 169 sobre Pueblos IndĂ­genas y Tribales y otros instrumentos internacionales de derechos humanos aplicables a los pueblos tribales afrodescendientes, como el Programa de AcciĂłn y la DeclaraciĂłn de la Tercera Conferencia Mundial contra el Racismo, la DiscriminaciĂłn Racial, la Xenofobia y las Formas Conexas de Intolerancia; el Consenso de Montevideo sobre PoblaciĂłn y Desarrollo; el Decenio Internacional de los Afrodescendientes; la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible y la reciente creaciĂłn del Foro Permanente de Afrodescendientes de las Naciones Unidas bajo la resoluciĂłn No. A/75/L.119.

Patrimonio, TradiciĂłn y Modernidad

Un factor importante para promover la diversidad y el legado es el estĂ­mulo de las costumbres tradicionales, que pueden ser un estĂ­mulo para el turismo y la creaciĂłn de actividades econĂłmicas. La celebraciĂłn del Desfile de Wolaba, por ejemplo, tiene lugar en agosto, en el que se conmemora el Mes del Pueblo Negro y la Cultura Afrodescendiente. Durante este tiempo, se conmemoran y reconocen nuestras raĂ­ces afro. Este festival en particular resalta la singularidad del pueblo tribal afro local, junto con su conexiĂłn con el mar y la tierra como un aspecto intrĂ­nseco de su identidad cultural.

El Gran Desfile de Gala en LimĂłn es otra muestra espectacular de la cultura y el espĂ­ritu de la comunidad afrocostarricense. Este evento ha sido declarado Patrimonio Cultural Inmaterial, reafirmando asĂ­ la importancia del desfile dentro del ĂĄmbito cultural nacional y tambiĂ©n abriendo las puertas para que las instituciones pĂșblicas colaboren en su realizaciĂłn, promociĂłn y difusiĂłn.

El origen de esta celebración se remonta a la Primera Convención Internacional sobre el Estatuto de los Negros en agosto de 1920. Este fue un evento internacional, que reunió a delegados de 25 países de cuatro continentes en la ciudad de Nueva York. Allí se proclamó la “Declaración de los Derechos de los Negros”, que sentó las bases para la lucha contra la desigualdad y la discriminación racial, marcando un momento crucial en el reconocimiento y protección global de los derechos de la población afro.

En los años 80, en Costa Rica se decretĂł el 31 de agosto como celebraciĂłn del “DĂ­a del Negro”, iniciativa que fue impulsada por la UniĂłn Costarricense de Educadores (SEC). Años mĂĄs tarde se decretĂł una extensiĂłn de la celebraciĂłn como el “DĂ­a de la Persona Negra y la Cultura Afrocostarricense”.

El desfile muestra los sonidos de la mĂșsica, los aromas de la cocina local, los colores vibrantes de la vestimenta tradicional y el espĂ­ritu alegre de su gente que baila al son de la mĂșsica. AsĂ­ como observamos danzas tradicionales que cuentan historias de ancestros y herencias, tambiĂ©n hay ritmos contemporĂĄneos que hablan de luchas y triunfos actuales. El desfile es una confluencia de pasado y presente.

El futuro del Gran Desfile de Gala se presenta como una oportunidad para educar, inspirar y unificar. Es una oportunidad para que las generaciones mĂĄs jĂłvenes se conecten con su herencia y para que la comunidad a nivel nacional e internacional comprenda y aprecie la riqueza de la cultura afrocostarricense.

La socialización desde la niñez es un acto esencial en la transmisión cultural afrodescendiente.

Creando caminos econĂłmicos en LimĂłn

La provincia de LimĂłn, con su gran comunidad afrocaribeña, fue nuestro gran impulsor de las iniciativas. El objetivo es abordar las necesidades inmediatas, pero sobre todo establecer las bases para un desarrollo econĂłmico sostenible. Para lograrlo, nos centramos en el empleo individual, asĂ­ como en cultivar un entorno donde las empresas puedan prosperar. Por ejemplo, la Zona Franca de BĂșfalo de LimĂłn crea un efecto multiplicador en las oportunidades de empleo, lo que significa inclusiĂłn. En LimĂłn hemos iniciado programas para promover el emprendimiento local, especialmente entre jĂłvenes y mujeres, a travĂ©s de capacitaciones del Ministerio de EconomĂ­a, Industria y Comercio. Al brindar oportunidades de financiaciĂłn, tutorĂ­a y establecimiento de contactos en las primeras etapas, estamos empoderando a una nueva generaciĂłn de lĂ­deres  y lideresas empresariales.

Un aspecto clave de nuestra estrategia de inclusión social es involucrar al sector privado. Estamos trabajando con las empresas para incentivarlas a contratar un porcentaje de nuestra población para que su representación sea cada año mayor. Esta iniciativa fomenta una cultura de diversidad e inclusión dentro del sector privado, convirtiéndolo en un participante activo en el viaje de nuestra Nación hacia una mayor igualdad.

Este enfoque estå diseñado para revitalizar la economía de Limón desde adentro, creando un gran mercado local que puede contribuir significativamente al panorama económico nacional. Puerto Limón se erige como una ciudad fundamental en la costa caribeña de Costa Rica, actuando como el principal conducto para el comercio y el comercio del país. Mås allå de su importante Zona de Libre Comercio, que refuerza la economía local, la ciudad prospera gracias al turismo, la agricultura, la industria pesquera y la manufactura, tanto dentro como fuera de la Zona de Libre Comercio.

Ademås, el papel de la ciudad en el transporte y la logística es indispensable para el comercio internacional, ya que gestiona un volumen sustancial de carga que impulsa la economía. El sector de servicios, que abarca el comercio minorista, la hotelería, la atención sanitaria y la educación, cumple el doble propósito de atender tanto a residentes como a visitantes. En conjunto, estos sectores subrayan la diversidad económica y la importancia de Puerto Limón como un centro económico crucial en Costa Rica, aprovechando su posición estratégica, recursos naturales e infraestructura para fomentar el crecimiento y el desarrollo.

Visiones de futuro: proyectos de puertos deportivos y aeropuertos internacionales

Mirando hacia el futuro, podemos ver a LimĂłn transformĂĄndose en un centro de comercio y turismo internacional. EstĂĄn en marcha los planes para una nueva marina y aeropuerto internacional, inspirados en modelos exitosos de otras regiones como Guanacaste, en el norte del paĂ­s. Estos proyectos tienen que ver con el crecimiento econĂłmico, pero sobre todo implican abrir LimĂłn al mundo, pudiendo asĂ­ mostrar su rica cultura y brindar nuevas oportunidades a sus residentes.

La ciudad de LimĂłn, a diferencia de la regiĂłn que la rodea, se caracteriza por ser la menos visitada por turistas extranjeros, principalmente por la falta de infraestructura turĂ­stica adecuada, como hoteles y otros elementos esenciales para el turismo. Este dĂ©ficit ha motivado la creaciĂłn del proyecto Costa Caribe, que busca definir las inversiones pĂșblicas y privadas necesarias para potenciar el turismo en la zona. Actualmente, el turismo en LimĂłn es limitado y no se proyecta un crecimiento significativo sin la presencia de un aeropuerto funcional, la finalizaciĂłn de la Carretera 32 y el desarrollo de infraestructura turĂ­stica que satisfaga las demandas actuales del sector.

Los desafĂ­os para promover el turismo y el comercio internacional en LimĂłn incluyen crear infraestructura turĂ­stica adecuada y desarrollar productos turĂ­sticos atractivos.

Aunque LimĂłn atrae visitantes de cruceros que vienen algunas horas al dĂ­a durante la temporada, las excursiones los llevan a lugares como Tortuguero en el Norte, y Cahuita, Puerto Viejo y Manzanillo en el sur de la Costa Caribe, pero no el centro de LimĂłn y otros distritos de la provincia que enfrentan situaciones precarias en materia turĂ­stica. Esto subraya la urgente necesidad de mejoras y desarrollos para revitalizar el turismo y el comercio en la regiĂłn, de la mano con la empresa privada.

En todas nuestras iniciativas de desarrollo somos conscientes del impacto ambiental que pueden generar. LimĂłn, con sus exuberantes selvas tropicales y playas paradisĂ­acas, es un tesoro natural que debe ser preservado.

Un aspecto notable de la ascendencia africana es su pacifismo, como lo revela la mirada de la mujer en la grĂĄfica.

Empoderamiento a través de Comités Asesores

El Comité Consultivo de Inclusión Social compuesto por representantes de la sociedad civil y del gobierno, que presido y primero en ser creado por un Comisionado, sirve como plataforma para el diålogo y la toma de decisiones, asegurando que las voces de las poblaciones vulenrabilizadas sean escuchadas en los niveles mås altos del gobierno. Este comité es un lugar para consultar como participante activo en la formación de políticas que afectan la vida de los costarricenses en todos los países.

Con los enlaces afrodescendientes, antes de que venciera su plazo de servicio, entre otras acciones, se solicitaron reuniones con el Ministerio de Educación para abordar la renovación del liceo de Puerto Viejo, que actualmente se encuentra en reconstrucción. El comité asesor permite a la sociedad civil plantear inquietudes y problemas a la mesa del comisionado, ejemplo de una democracia participativa.

Hubo dos reuniones con el Ministro de Obras PĂșblicas y Transporte PĂșblico sobre los enlaces afrodescendientes para discutir los avances del proyecto del aeropuerto. Se considera que este esfuerzo lleva apoyo institucional a los territorios locales y brinda respuestas a la comunidad. El ComitĂ© CĂ­vico de LimĂłn, por segundo año consecutivo, en mi funciĂłn de Comisionado, ha solicitado de mi intervenciĂłn para facilitar las conexiones con el gobierno, solicitud que hizo el comitĂ© Desfile de Wolaba. Esto me ha permitido llevar a jerarcas de Gobierno a conversar con los comitĂ©s culturales y coordinar todo lo necesario para las celebraciones de agosto, en otras palabras, llevar la institucionalidad a la territorialidad, “dar la cara, sudarnos la camiseta por el pueblo”, como lo ha instruido el Sr. Presidente, don Rodrigo Chaves Robles, a toda la poblaciĂłn funcionara.

Creo que la expresiĂłn cultural resalta la afrodescendiente. No responder o crear barreras intencionalmente negando permisos, participando en trĂĄmites burocrĂĄticos o empleando otras tĂĄcticas para suprimir la expresiĂłn cultural constituye un ataque directo a la identidad afrodescendiente, borrando efectivamente su visibilidad y perpetuando la discriminaciĂłn. Algo que bajo mi gestiĂłn, no serĂĄ tolerado.

Un compromiso con el progreso continuo

A medida que avanzamos, es fundamental recordar que la inclusiĂłn social es un viaje continuo, no un destino. Los avances que hemos logrado en LimĂłn y en toda Costa Rica son significativos, pero aĂșn queda mucho trabajo por hacer. A travĂ©s de la colaboraciĂłn continua, la innovaciĂłn y un profundo compromiso con la igualdad, continuamos superando los lĂ­mites de lo que, tradicionalmente, parecĂ­a imposible. Nuestro objetivo es crear una Costa Rica donde todas las personas tengan la oportunidad de triunfar y las mismas oportunidades.

Por eso, invito a todas las personas habitantes de nuestro bello país, de todos los sectores sociales, para sumarse en este esfuerzo inclusivo, en este camino de igualdad de oportunidades. Sólo a través de nuestros esfuerzos colectivos podremos crear un cambio duradero. Ya seas estudiante, emprendedor, profesional de la salud o líder comunitario, tienes un papel que desempeñar en la construcción de una Costa Rica mås inclusiva.

Como Comisionado para la InclusiĂłn Social, estoy comprometido en continuar estos esfuerzos, trabajando incansablemente para garantizar que cada costarricense y persona habitante de esta tierra, independientemente de su ascendencia, tenga la oportunidad de tener una vida con dignidad y propĂłsito. Juntos estamos escribiendo un nuevo capĂ­tulo en la historia de nuestra NaciĂłn, un capĂ­tulo de esperanza, inclusiĂłn y progreso para personas como los Brown.

 

Ricardo Sossa Ortiz se desempeña como Comisionado de InclusiĂłn Social de Costa Rica y asesor del Presidente de la RepĂșblica. Es un apasionado defensor de la diversidad cultural y la inclusiĂłn, comprometido a profundizar en la experiencia afrocostarricense a travĂ©s de una investigaciĂłn exhaustiva y una participaciĂłn activa con la comunidad.

 

 

Voices of di Caribbean

Afro-Costa Ricans a Move Towards Empowerment an’ Equality

By Ricardo Sossa Ortiz

Photos de Markus Brown

Colorful clothing continues to be a culture of life for Afro-Costa Ricans.

 

Di mawnin’ a start fi show pon di coast a Cocles inna di Costa Rican Caribbean an’ di fuss ray dem a di sun a shine pon di sea. Wid an invitation fram di Brown Hudson family, local residents dem who proud fi be Afro-Caribbeans, mi deh pon mi way fi a journey a discovery an’ connection. Di visit, weh show di hope an’ heritage a generations, tek mi beyond di limits a mi official role as Presidential Commissioner fi Social Inclusion, towards a path weh di country’s history mark di journey.

Di Browns, wid dem radiant smiles, welcome mi to dem colorful home—a place weh full up wid di laugh of children an’ di smell a tropical sea breeze an’ flowers. Wi dedicate weself to di ritual a preparing rondon, a seafood dish wid coconut milk weh really a delight as well as a cultural legacy. Albert Brown Hudson an’ him daughter, Regina, wid hands weh talk bout dem bond wid di land, dig up yampĂ­ an’ yucca from dem garden. Him young son, already a skilled fisherman an’ diver, a charge a scaling di day’s catch pon di coral reef, while neighbor Patric Lewis watches from him porch, a sentinel a ancient wisdom an’ descendant a di founding families of Cocles. Mi see inna dis family di opportunities an’ challenges mi face inna mi official post: health, education, digital connections an’ economic growth, among others.

Dis day a transcend di limits of just festivity. A a journey weh Sara Brown Hudson, di matriarch a di family, a weave stories from memory an’ tradition. Dem remember dem ancestors like Enrique Downer an’ Margarita Tylor, who once dance pon dese same sands. “We bury we ancestors inna di beach cemetery right over deh next to Dora, Whitman Brown, Miss Rinie’s sisters an’ cousin,” says Sara Brown. Dem stories, more than just memories of a distant past, reflect di identity an’ resilience of a community.

Di Browns, in complete honesty, express dem fears a displacement. Dem ancestral lands inna di crosshairs of legal uncertainties an’ administrative decrees. Dem concerns, raw an’ unfiltered, a reflection of a community at di crossroads of history an’ modernity, deeply rooted, but fraid a uncertainty. Di situation a cause by a complex an’ contentious process a drawing di boundaries a indigenous reserves inna Talamanca, Costa Rica, specifically focusing pon di Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve. Initially, through a series of executive decrees between 1976 an’ 1977, certain lands were designated as part of di Talamanca Indigenous Reserve, including what was to become di Cocles Indigenous Reserve. Dem decrees inadvertently include lands owned by Afro-Caribbean communities an’ other non-Indigenous people, leading to a significant change inna di land rights an’ boundaries affecting dese communities.

Inna 1996, di government recognize di mistake inna including di Afro-Caribbean an’ non-Indigenous lands within di Indigenous reserve an’ issued a decree to release 1,244 hectares (3,025 acres) a dis land. However, as compensation fi di mistake, di Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve was later expanded, creating more complexities an’ conflicts over land rights.

Dis situation have profound implications fi di community a African descent weh live inna di region fi generations. Di Afro-Caribbean community, weh historically occupy dem lands, find dem property rights an’ ancestral lands caught inna di crossfire a governmental decisions aimed at rectifying previous administrative errors. Di expansion of di Indigenous reserve into areas traditionally inhabited by Afro-Caribbeans, without clear compensation or consideration fi di existing community, lead to disputes an’ tensions between Indigenous peoples an’ Afro-descendant communities. Both groups, having coexisted in harmony, now face a scenario a conflict over land rights an’ cultural heritage preservation.

Di restitution of lands as per di 2019 court ruling, weh confirmed di expanded boundaries of di Indigenous reserve while maintaining compensation areas, only further complicate di situation. Di Afro-Caribbean community a affected by dem legal an’ administrative decisions, as dem historical lands an’ living spaces a encroached pon, potentially leading to displacement an’ loss of cultural identity. Dis situation underscore di challenges a balancing di rights an’ interests of indigenous communities wid those of Afro-descendant populations, highlighting di need fi careful, inclusive an’ fair policy-making weh respects di histories an’ rights a all communities involved.

Di matter was complicated by di December 12, 2019, resolution of di Costa Rican Supreme Court of Justice.Dis court ruling a direct di state fi return territories a Cocles an part a Puerto Viejo to di Kekoldi indigenous reserve, an fi tek weh an pay back di area inhabitants. Nuh jus di long-time Afro-Costa Ricans weh deh ya so fi centuries, but some foreigners weh own up luxury hotels an restaurants, dem gone seek legal help wid dem embassies. Di government nuh have no money fi pay dem, but more dan di money talk, di court ruling nuh consider di history an culture a di area’s Afrodescendants.

Inna dem time ya when people a show dem vulnerable side, mi feel di weight a mi role an di responsibility fi be a bridge a understanding an empathy. Di words a Sara touch mi deep: Wi land an stories more dan just memories from di past; dem a di heartbeat a wi community, wi identity an history. Her insights mek mi remember mi sacred duty fi listen, understand, an stand up fi dem weh often forgotten inna di noise a power.

While wi a reason, Sara Brown Hudson mek mi know bout her strong belief inna peaceful solutions, “Wi live inna harmony wid nature an wi indigenous neighbors,” she say, “fi generations, we live in peace wid nature an di indigenous people dem weh live inna di mountains. Dem come down fi help wi pick cocoa, an den dem go back up to di mountain when di work done.” This harmony show inna dem tradition fi plant red flowers along dem property lines, a ting weh carry deep cultural meaning; Dem flowers, weh mark di ends a dem land, talk bout a time an ethic where fence neva necessary, where respect an courtesy a di foundation a community living together. Dis tradition a carry a big message an represent fi dem community: inna Cocles, peace an respect nuh jus ideal, but a way a life, deep-rooted inna di land a dem history an di soul a dem community.

As di sun fade weh, leaving di sky inna shades a crimson an gold, mi leave di Brown residence. Mi a carry wid mi memories; mi have a renewed sense a purpose an a promise fi keep to di heartbeat a dis Afro-Caribbean community. More dan anything, mi a leave wid a vow fi honor dem heritage an address dem concerns wid di respect an dignity dem deserve.

Dis day a remind me say true understanding go beyond official titles an bureaucratic red tape. Dis a di story a resilience, a a community weh, despite di uncertainties a di future, continue fi dance to di rhythm a dem own music, dem roots forever intertwined wid di soul a Cocles.

As night tek over Cocles, mi remember say mi role as a commissioner can’t just stay inna policies an decisions. It about understanding di heart a a community, building bridges an mekking agreements between all di parts dem weh live together inna di community. Ensure say di human experience get honor an preserved. Dis journey wid di Browns an di wider Afro-Caribbean community a Cocles a remind me a di power a empathy, understanding, an di unbreakable bond between people an dem land.

Cocles just a likkle part a di province a Limón pon Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, weh di biggest gathering a di Afro-Costa Rican community deh. Di Costa Rican population have 11.7% Afro-descendant genetic heritage. Dis percentage higher inna di Caribbean, reaching 30%, 14% inna di Guanacaste region, 8% inna di southern zone, an 6% inna di Central Valley, according to di 2011 census. Twelve percent a Costa Ricans identify as people a African descent. As Commissioner a Social Inclusion a di Republic a Costa Rica, mi get di deep honor fi advocate an work alongside dis vibrant community wid thousands a families like di Browns.

Initial Challenges an di Path to Inclusion

Di history a dis community intertwined wid di history a wi nation. Di waves a Jamaican immigrants weh land pon wi shores a di end a di 19th century an early 20th century face nuff challenges from systemic discrimination to economic disparities. Di community a African descent inna Costa Rica mainly come yah so fi work inna specific area: di building a di Atlantic Railroad an di development a di banana plantations. Dis migration start inna di late 19th an early 20th centuries. Workers mainly recruited from di Caribbean, especially from Jamaica, fi work pon dem labor-intensive projects. Di building a di railroad, weh aim fi connect di capital, San JosĂ©, wid di Caribbean port a LimĂłn, an di subsequent boom inna di banana industry, create a demand fi labor weh couldn’t met locally. Di Afro-Caribbean workers bring in both fi dem expertise an di sheer need fi labor.

There were restrictions pon movement fi di Afro-Caribbean population inna Costa Rica, fi a significant period, there were legal and social restrictions dat limit dem mobility within di country. Specifically, until 1949, Blacks were prohibited by law from traveling beyond di Atlantic coastal areas to other parts a Costa Rica, including San JosĂ©. Dis restriction was part a a broader set a legal and social discriminations faced by di Afrodescendant community inna Costa Rica. Di law reflect di racial segregation policies a di time, weh aim fi limit di integration a Afro-Caribbean workers into di broader Costa Rican society. It wasn’t until after di abolition a dem laws, following di 1948 Civil War and di drafting a a new constitution in 1949, dat Afro-Caribbeans could move freely within di country.

In recent years, our government attempt fi provide significant solutions fi address dem challenges. As a principle, we recognize di crucial need fi inclusive policies and programs weh not only recognize di special history and needs a di Afro-Costa Rican population but also fi celebrate and enhance dem contributions to our nation.

Educational Initiatives: A Door to Opportunity

Education a di key pillar inna wi quest fi social inclusion and empowerment. Dem communities often face barriers to high-quality educational resources, like not enough teachers and extra-curricular activities weh crucial fi a full learning experience. Economic instability mek things worse, as it force pickney from historically marginalized backgrounds fi balance helping dem family income with dem school work, often in environments weh nah support studying. Furthermore, how much di curriculum represent di culture play a big role in how students engage and succeed. A curriculum weh nah reflect di history, culture, and perspectives a minority students can cause them fi feel disconnected and alienated. This situation get worse by experiences of racial discrimination and bias, weh can not only lower academic motivation but can also harm di mental health a Afrodescendant students, possibly leading to lower academic achievements and higher dropout rates. All a these factors create a complex set a challenges weh need comprehensive and culturally sensitive educational policies fi tackle effectively.

Costa Rica face challenges in keeping up educational continuity during di pandemic. Moving to online learning highlight and maybe mek worse di existing inequalities in education because of differences in access to technology, internet connectivity, and supportive learning environments at home. Marginalized communities, including those of Afrodescendant populations, have been particularly hit hard by these challenges, possibly leading to a fall in learning outcomes. This pattern follow di global trend where COVID-19 has hit marginalized communities harder, including those of African descent, in various areas, including health, economic stability, and education.

Inna partnership wid private educational institutions, we kick off a big project fi give scholarships to marginalized groups, including Afrodescendants. Dis initiative make way fi access education by bigging up self-sufficiency and strengthening dem communities. Wi link up wid COSVIC Institute, a Costa Rican educational service provider weh have over 30 years inna di market, committed to training professionals inna a broad range of academic and technical fields weh use active teaching methods, modern facilities, multidisciplinary projects, and talent discovery initiatives. With 22 locations all over di country, it offer over 80 career paths, including INA-accredited courses and online classes, and has provided 800 full scholarships in academics, as a sign of dis commitment. Dem scholarships are lifelines fi people weh long time been denied opportunities fi study because of where dem come from or dem economic status. ‘Bout half of these scholarships dem set aside fi Afro-descendants.

Socialization starting in childhood is an essential act in Afro-descendant cultural transmission.

Empowerment through Training, Technique, and Work

Beyond just di regular schooling, we see di value in vocational training and work opportunities. We put focus pon developing technical training programs in heaps of fields weh got high demand fi work, giving di right skills fi succeed inna di work market in areas like Criminology, Automotive Electricity, Barber Shop, Patient Assistant, Professional Beauty, and Veterinary Assistant. Through di commissioner’s office, di government offer one to two-year technical courses through di National Apprenticeship Institute, equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills. We help smooth di way fi them to step into di work world, partnering with the Business Agency for Development, linking up graduates with more than 100 companies throughout di country. Youth and women get extra focus in our inclusion work. By giving dem tools and chances fi succeed, we a shape future leaders fi our country. This include leadership training programs, mentoring opportunities, and support for women entrepreneurs. Strengthening these specific groups crucial fi building a more fair society. We doing it with civil groups like Afro-Costa Rica. Dis Information Initiative by people of African descent, aim fi fix di information gap weh affect Costa Rica’s marginalized Afro-descendant communities by promoting awareness of their rights, resources, and historical legacies. Dis initiative set out fi lift up Afrodescendant communities within Costa Rica and link with Afrodescendant communities globally, boosting cultural understanding and unity.

Internet Access: Closing di Digital Divide

Inna today digital age, having access to di Internet seen as a basic part of third-generation human rights. We committed fi bridge di digital divide, especially in places like Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, where plenty families of African descent like di Browns face limited internet connectivity. By making it a priority fi expand internet services inna di area, we not just upholding di recognized human right to digital access but also empowering communities with di tools needed fi education, health, economic growth, and social inclusion, making sure di rich cultural heritage and potential of these communities nah left behind in our fast-moving digital world. Through collaboration between my office, di Municipality of LimĂłn, and national cable companies, we making sure high-speed Internet nah just a luxury, but a basic service accessible to all, with di help of di Ministry of Science and Technology. This work ongoing di satellite internet program ago cover all di coastal regions and Talamanca.

Sports: A platform for Inclusion and Unity

Sports, ‘specially football, hold a big spot inna Costa Rican culture, and we believe dem can be a powerful way fi promote inclusion and fight racism. Di recent incident inna di Costa Rican Soccer Federation (FedefĂștbol), where a coach of a football team inna di first division get punish fi racist behavior, shine light pon di ongoing challenges we face. But, it also show we commitment fi face dem challenges head-on. Di recognition of dis action by di United Nations and di undersigned Commissioner stress di importance of setting up a procedure pon how fi deal with racism in sports and society wide. Inna di world of sports, racism incidents weh come to light currently under investigation. One such case involve a player from a top-division football team accused of racially abusing another player by calling him a “monkey.” Dis case now under active investigation. Recognizing di seriousness of dis issue, me a lead di charge fi fight racism in sports. Me coordinating di establishment of a special commission, weh di Ministry of Security ago regulate, aiming fi eliminate racism within di sports community. Me a lead dis push and plan fi share more details ’bout we efforts as we go along. Sport keep being a powerful tool fi social change. Beyond di recent sanction of FedefĂștbol, we using sports fi bring communities together, teach work values, teamwork, and respect, and provide constructive activities fi di youth. Our sports programs designed fi include everybody, ensuring that everyone, no matter dem background, get di chance fi participate and do well.

The Puerto Viejo women’s team is an example of gender equality in sports and non-discrimination against Afro-descendant women.

The Women’s Soccer Project in Puerto Viejo, LimĂłn, stand out as a symbol of social progress and female empowerment inna di southern Caribbean of Costa Rica, known for its Afro-descendant heritage. One of di main owners of Puerto Viejo Football Club is a woman of African descent from Puerto Viejo, one of di Afro Tribal Towns of Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean. Its board of directors made up entirely of women of African descent, di team mark di first women’s First-division team in Puerto Viejo, boosting di leadership and participation of women both pon di field and in sports management. Dis project go beyond di sports field, pushing di cultural and social development of di region, promoting gender equality, and giving young women a space fi grow in leadership skills. It stand for transformative change and is a symbol of pride, reflecting di diversity and legacy of di people of African descent.

Decree No. 43532 – Acknowledgment of Self-Recognition of di Afro-Costa Rican Population as a Tribal People.

Di Afrodescendant Tribal People’s Forum of Costa Rica serve as a consultative, dialogue, and coordination body between di Afro-Costa Rican tribal people and di state, national, and international organizations, to keep up on, and enforce human rights recognized in di International Labour Organization’s Convention No. 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and other international human rights instruments applicable to tribal Afrodescendant peoples like di Action Program and Declaration of di Third World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance; di Montevideo Consensus on Population and Development; di International Decade for People of African Descent; di 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and di recent creation of di Permanent Forum of People of African Descent of di United Nations under resolution No. A/75/L.119.

Heritage, Tradition and Modernity

A big part in promoting diversity and legacy is di encouragement of traditional activities—which can boost tourism and create economic activities. The Wolaba Parade celebration, for example, happen in August, when Black People and Afro-descendant Culture Month celebrated. During dis time, our Afro roots celebrated and recognized. And dis festival in particular highlight di uniqueness of di local Afro tribal people, along with their connection to di sea and land as an intrinsic part of their cultural identity. The Grand Gala Parade in Limón is another spectacular display of di culture and spirit of di Afro-Costa Rican community. The Costa Rican government declared dis parade an Intangible Cultural Heritage of di country, thus reaffirming di importance of di parade within di national cultural sphere and also opening di doors for public institutions fi collaborate in its realization, promotion, and dissemination.

Di origin of dis celebration go back to di First International Convention on di Status of Negroes in August 1920. This was an international event, weh bring together delegates from 25 countries on four continents in New York City. Here “The Declaration on the Rights of Negroes” was proclaimed, weh lay di foundations for di fight against racial inequality and discrimination. Dis mark a key moment in di global recognition and protection of di rights of black people. In di 80s, in Costa Rica, August 31 was decreed as di celebration of “Black Day.” Initiative weh was promoted by di Costa Rican Educators Union (SEC). Years later, an extension of di celebration was decreed as di “Day of di Black Person and Afro-Costa Rican Culture.”

Di parade showcase di sounds of music, di aromas of local cuisine, di vibrant colors of traditional clothing, and di joyful spirit of its people who dance to di music. Just as we observe traditional dances weh tell stories of ancestors and heritage, there are also contemporary rhythms weh talk ’bout current struggles and triumphs. Di parade is a meeting of past and present.
Di future of di Grand Gala Parade look brighter than ever thanks to dis new recognition granted by di government. It present as an opportunity to educate, inspire, and unify. Is a chance for di younger generations fi connect with their heritage and for di community nationally and internationally fi understand and appreciate di richness of Afro-Costa Rican culture.

Creating Economic Roads inna LimĂłn

Di province of LimĂłn, wid its big Afro-Caribbean community, a we great driving force behind di initiatives. Di objective a fi address immediate needs, but more than dat fi set up di foundation fi sustainable economic development. Fi achieve dis, we focus pon individual employment as well as creating an environment where businesses can thrive. Fi example, di Free Trade Zone inna BĂșfalo de LimĂłn create a multiplier effect pon employment opportunities, weh mean inclusion.

Inna LimĂłn, we have started programs fi promote local entrepreneurship, especially among young people and women, through training from di Ministry of Economy, Industry and Trade. By providing early-stage funding, mentoring, and networking opportunities, we a empower a new generation of business leaders.

A key part a we strategy fi social inclusion a fi involve di private sector. We a work wid companies fi encourage dem fi hire a percentage of our population so dat their representation is increasingly higher each year. Dis initiative foster a culture of diversity and inclusion within di private sector, making it an active participant in our nation journey toward greater equality. Dis approach a designed fi revitalize LimĂłn’s economy from within, creating a big local market that can contribute significantly to di national economic landscape. Puerto LimĂłn stand as a pivotal city pon di Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, acting as di country primary conduit fi trade and commerce. Beyond its significant Free Trade Zone, which bolsters di local economy, di city thrives through tourism, agriculture, and a robust fishing industry and manufacturing, both within and outside di Free Trade Zone. Additionally, di city role in transportation and logistics is indispensable fi international trade, managing a substantial volume of cargo that drives di economy. Furthermore, di services sector, encompassing retail, hospitality, healthcare, and education, serve di dual purpose of catering to residents and visitors alike. Collectively, these sectors underscore di economic diversity and significance of Puerto LimĂłn as a crucial economic hub in Costa Rica, leveraging its strategic position, natural resources, and infrastructure to foster growth and development.

Future Visions: Marina and International Airport Projects

Looking to di future, we can see LimĂłn transforming into a center of commerce and international tourism. Plans fi a new marina and international airport a inna March, inspired by successful models from other regions such as Guanacaste, inna di north of di country. These projects about economic growth, but above all dem involve opening LimĂłn to di world. Thus being able to show its rich culture and provide new opportunities fi its residents. Dis year, it anticipated that di analysis of factors such as wave patterns will occupy a significant amount of time, focusing exclusively on di LimĂłn International Airport. Di city of LimĂłn, unlike di region surrounding it, characterized as di least visited by foreign tourists, mainly due to a lack of adequate tourist infrastructure, such as hotels and other essential elements fi tourism. Dis deficit has motivated di creation of di Caribbean coastal project, weh seeks fi define di necessary public and private investments to enhance tourism inna di area. Currently, tourism inna LimĂłn is limited, and significant growth nah projected without di presence of a functional airport, di completion of Highway 32, and di development of tourist infrastructure that meets di current demands of di sector.

Di challenges to promoting tourism and international commerce inna LimĂłn include creating suitable tourist infrastructure and developing attractive tourist products. Although LimĂłn attracts visitors from cruise ships who come fi a few hours a day during di season, di excursions take dem to places like Tortuguero inna di north, and Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo inna di southern parts of di Caribbean Coast, di center of LimĂłn and other districts of di province face precarious situations inna tourism terms. Dis underscore di urgent need fi improvements and developments fi revitalize tourism and commerce inna di region.

In all our development initiatives, we aware of di environmental impact dem can generate. LimĂłn, wid its lush tropical jungles and paradisiacal beaches, a natural treasure that must be preserved.

Empowerment through Advisory Committees

Di Social Inclusion Consultative Committee made up of civil society and government representatives weh I chair, serves as a platform fi dialogue and decision-making, ensuring dat di voices of marginalized communities are heard at di higher levels of government. Dis committee a place fi consult as an active participant inna di formation of policies that affect di lives of Costa Ricans inna all countries. With di Afrodescendant liaisons, before dem service term expired; among other actions, meetings were requested wid di Ministry of Education to address di renovation of di Puerto Viejo high school, weh currently being rebuilt; di funds are located in Kekoldi. Di advisory committee allows civil society fi bring concerns and problems to di table of di commissioner. There were two meetings wid di Minister of Public Works and Public Transport concerning di Afrodescendant liaisons to discuss progress pon di airport project. Dis effort seen as bringing institutional support to local territories and providing responses to di community. Di Civic Committee of Limon asked me as commissioner fi facilitate connections wid di government, a request made by di committee similar to di one made by di Wolaba Parade committee. I believe dat cultural expression highlights Afrodescendancy. Failing fi respond or intentionally creating barriers by denying permits, engaging in bureaucratic red tape, or employing other tactics fi suppress cultural expression constitutes a direct attack pon Afrodescendant identity, effectively erasing their visibility and perpetuating discrimination.

A notable aspect of African descent is its pacifism, as revealed by the woman’s gaze in the graph.

A Commitment to Continuous Progress

As we move forward, it crucial fi remember dat social inclusion a ongoing journey, not a destination. Di progress we have made inna LimĂłn and throughout Costa Rica significant, but there still a lot of work to do. Through ongoing collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to equality, we continue fi push di boundaries of what possible. Our goal a fi create a Costa Rica where all people have di opportunity fi succeed and di same opportunities.

Therefore, I invite every Costa Rican, from all walks of life, fi join in dis inclusive endeavor, in dis journey of equal opportunities. Only through our collective efforts, we can create lasting change. Whether you a student, an entrepreneur, a health professional or a community leader, you have a role fi play in building a more inclusive Costa Rica. And so does di international community.

As Commissioner fi Social Inclusion, I am committed to continuing these efforts, working tirelessly to ensure that every Costa Rican, regardless of their ancestry, has di opportunity fi live a life of dignity and purpose. Together, we writing a new chapter in our nation’s history, a chapter of hope, inclusion, and progress for people like di Browns.

 

Ricardo Sossa Ortiz serve as Costa Rica’s Social Inclusion Commissioner and an advisor to di President of di Republic. Him a passionate advocate fi cultural diversity and inclusivity, committed to diving deep into di Afro-Costa Rican experience through thorough research and active involvement wid di community. Sossa-Ortiz come from a rich educational background wid a Bachelor’s degree in journalism from Costa Rica, a master’s in political science, and a Ph.D. in Sociology, from di University of Paris, France. His humanitarian work get recognize through an honorary doctorate (honoris causa) weh dem give him in San JosĂ©, Costa Rica in 2023.

Voix des CaraĂŻbes

Les Afro-Costariciens progressent vers l’autonomisation et l’égalitĂ©

Pour Ricardo Sossa Ortiz

Photos de Markus Brown

Les vĂȘtements colorĂ©s continuent d’ĂȘtre une culture de vie pour les Afro-Costaricains

L’aube commence sur la cĂŽte de Cocles, dans les CaraĂŻbes du Costa Rica, et les premiers rayons du soleil se reflĂštent dans la mer. Avec une invitation de la famille Brown Hudson, des rĂ©sidents locaux fiers d’ĂȘtre afro-caribĂ©ens, je me lance dans un voyage de dĂ©couverte et de connexion. Cette visite, qui reflĂšte l’espoir et l’hĂ©ritage de gĂ©nĂ©rations, m’emmĂšne au-delĂ  des limites de mon rĂŽle officiel de commissaire prĂ©sidentiel Ă  l’inclusion sociale, vers un chemin oĂč l’histoire du pays ouvre la voie.

Les Brown, avec leurs sourires radieux, m’accueillent dans leur maison colorĂ©e, un lieu rempli de rires d’enfants et d’arĂŽmes de fleurs et de brises marines tropicales. Nous nous consacrons au rituel de prĂ©parationrondon, un plat de fruits de mer au lait de coco qui est Ă  la fois un dĂ©lice et un hĂ©ritage culturel. Albert Brown Hudson et sa fille Regina, avec des mains qui parlent de leur lien avec la terre, cueillent du yampĂ­ et du yucca dans leur jardin. Leur jeune fils, dĂ©jĂ  pĂȘcheur et plongeur expĂ©rimentĂ©, est chargĂ© de mesurer les prises du jour sur la barriĂšre de corail, tandis que son voisin Patric Lewis surveille depuis son porche, sentinelle de la sagesse ancienne et descendant des familles fondatrices de Cocles. Je vois dans cette famille les opportunitĂ©s et les dĂ©fis auxquels je suis confrontĂ© dans mon poste officiel : santĂ©, Ă©ducation, connexions numĂ©riques et croissance Ă©conomique, entre autres.

Cette journĂ©e transcende les limites de la simple fĂȘte. C’est un voyage oĂč Sara Brown Hudson, la matriarche de la famille, tisse des histoires de mĂ©moire et de tradition. Ils se souviennent de leurs ancĂȘtres comme Enrique Downer et Margarita Tylor, qui dansaient autrefois

ces mĂȘmes sables. «Nous avons enterrĂ© nos ancĂȘtres dans le cimetiĂšre de la plage, juste Ă  cĂŽtĂ© de Dora, Whitman Brown, les sƓurs et la cousine de Miss Rinie», raconte Sara Brown. Ces histoires, plus que de simples souvenirs d’un passĂ© lointain, reflĂštent l’identitĂ© et la rĂ©silience d’une communautĂ©.

Les Browns, en toute honnĂȘtetĂ©, expriment leurs craintes de dĂ©placement. Leurs terres ancestrales sont dans la ligne de mire des insĂ©curitĂ©s juridiques et des arrĂȘtĂ©s administratifs. Leurs prĂ©occupations, brutes et sans filtre, sont le reflet d’une communautĂ© Ă  la croisĂ©e de l’histoire et de la modernitĂ©, profondĂ©ment enracinĂ©e, mais craignant l’incertitude. La situation est causĂ©e par un processus complexe et controversĂ© de dĂ©limitation des limites des rĂ©serves indigĂšnes Ă  Talamanca, au Costa Rica, en se concentrant spĂ©cifiquement sur la rĂ©serve indigĂšne Kekoldi. Initialement, par une sĂ©rie de dĂ©crets exĂ©cutifs entre 1976 et 1977, certaines terres ont Ă©tĂ© dĂ©signĂ©es comme faisant partie de la rĂ©serve indigĂšne de Talamanca, y compris ce qui allait devenir la rĂ©serve indigĂšne de Cocles. Ces dĂ©crets incluaient par inadvertance des terres appartenant Ă  des communautĂ©s afro-caribĂ©ennes et Ă  d’autres peuples non autochtones, provoquant une modification significative des droits territoriaux et des frontiĂšres affectant ces communautĂ©s.

En 1996, le gouvernement a reconnu l’erreur d’inclure les terres afro-caribĂ©ennes et non autochtones dans la rĂ©serve indigĂšne et a publiĂ© un dĂ©cret pour libĂ©rer 1 244 hectares (3 025 acres) de ces terres. Cependant, en guise de compensation pour cette erreur, la rĂ©serve autochtone de Kekoldi a ensuite Ă©tĂ© agrandie, crĂ©ant ainsi davantage de complexitĂ©s et de conflits concernant les droits fonciers.

Cette situation a de profondes implications pour la communautĂ© d’origine africaine qui vit dans la rĂ©gion depuis des gĂ©nĂ©rations. La communautĂ© afro-caribĂ©enne, qui occupait historiquement ces terres, a vu ses droits de propriĂ©tĂ© et ses terres ancestrales pris entre deux feux par les dĂ©cisions gouvernementales visant Ă  rectifier les erreurs administratives antĂ©rieures. L’expansion de la rĂ©serve autochtone dans des zones traditionnellement habitĂ©es par des Afro-CaribĂ©ens, sans compensation ni considĂ©ration claire pour la communautĂ© existante, a gĂ©nĂ©rĂ© des diffĂ©rends et des tensions entre les peuples autochtones et les communautĂ©s d’ascendance africaine. Les deux groupes, qui ont coexistĂ© en harmonie, sont dĂ©sormais confrontĂ©s Ă  un scĂ©nario de conflit sur les droits fonciers et la prĂ©servation du patrimoine culturel.

La restitution des terres en vertu de la dĂ©cision de justice de 2019, qui a confirmĂ© l’Ă©largissement des limites de la rĂ©serve indigĂšne tout en maintenant les zones de compensation, n’a fait que compliquer davantage la situation. La communautĂ© afro-caribĂ©enne est affectĂ©e par ces dĂ©cisions juridiques et administratives, car ses terres et ses espaces de vie historiques sont envahis, ce qui peut conduire Ă  des dĂ©placements et Ă  une perte d’identitĂ© culturelle. Cette situation met en Ă©vidence les dĂ©fis liĂ©s Ă  l’équilibre entre les droits et les intĂ©rĂȘts des communautĂ©s autochtones et ceux des populations d’ascendance africaine, soulignant la nĂ©cessitĂ© d’une Ă©laboration de politiques prudentes, inclusives et Ă©quitables qui respectent l’histoire et les droits de toutes les communautĂ©s impliquĂ©es.

L’affaire a Ă©tĂ© compliquĂ©e par la rĂ©solution du 12 dĂ©cembre 2019 de la Cour suprĂȘme de justice du Costa Rica. Cet arrĂȘt ordonne Ă  l’État de restituer les territoires de Cocles et une partie de Puerto Viejo Ă  la rĂ©serve indigĂšne Kekoldi, ainsi que d’exproprier et d’indemniser les habitants de la zone. Outre les Afro-Costaricains qui vivent sur cette terre depuis des siĂšcles, certains Ă©trangers possĂšdent des hĂŽtels et des restaurants de luxe et ont demandĂ© l’aide juridique de leurs ambassades. Le gouvernement n’a pas d’argent pour compenser, mais au-delĂ  de la question monĂ©taire, la dĂ©cision du tribunal ignore l’histoire et la culture des afro-descendants de la rĂ©gion.

Dans ces moments oĂč les gens montrent leur vulnĂ©rabilitĂ©, je ressens le poids de mon rĂŽle et la responsabilitĂ© d’ĂȘtre un canal de comprĂ©hension et d’empathie. Les mots de Sara rĂ©sonne en moi : notre terre et nos histoires sont plus que des souvenirs du passĂ© ; Ils sont le cƓur de notre communautĂ©, de notre identitĂ© et de notre histoire. Vos idĂ©es me rappellent mon devoir sacrĂ© d’écouter, de comprendre et de dĂ©fendre ceux dont les voix sont souvent oubliĂ©es dans les chambres d’écho du pouvoir.

Lors de nos Ă©changes, Sara Brown Hudson m’a partagĂ© sa foi inĂ©branlable dans les rĂ©solutions pacifiques : « Nous vivons en harmonie avec la nature et nos voisins autochtones, m’a-t-elle dit, depuis des gĂ©nĂ©rations, nous vivons en paix avec la nature et les peuples autochtones. ” . qui vivent dans les montagnes. « Ils descendent pour nous aider Ă  cueillir le cacao et reviennent Ă  la montagne une fois le travail terminĂ©. » Cette harmonie est symbolisĂ©e par leur tradition de planter des fleurs rouges le long des limites de propriĂ©tĂ©, une pratique qui a une profonde signification culturelle ; Ces fleurs, qui marquent les limites de leurs terres, parlent d’une Ă©poque et d’une Ă©thique oĂč les clĂŽtures n’Ă©taient pas nĂ©cessaires, oĂč le respect et la courtoisie Ă©taient les piliers de la coexistence communautaire. Cette tradition est un message profond et reprĂ©sentatif de leur communautĂ© : Ă  Cocles, la paix et le respect ne sont pas seulement des idĂ©aux, mais un mode de vie, profondĂ©ment enracinĂ© dans la terre de leur histoire et dans l’Ăąme de leur communautĂ©.

Alors que le soleil disparaĂźt, peignant le ciel dans des tons de pourpre et d’or, je quitte la rĂ©sidence Brown. J’emporte des souvenirs avec moi ; Je porte un sentiment renouvelĂ© de dĂ©termination et d’engagement au cƓur de cette communautĂ© afro-caribĂ©enne. Par-dessus tout, je repars avec la promesse d’honorer votre patrimoine et de rĂ©pondre Ă  vos prĂ©occupations avec la dignitĂ© et le respect qui ils le mĂ©ritent. Cette journĂ©e rappelle que la vĂ©ritable comprĂ©hension transcende les titres officiels et procĂ©dures bureaucratiques. C’est l’histoire de la rĂ©silience, d’une communautĂ© qui, malgrĂ© les incertitudes de l’avenir, continue de danser au rythme de sa musique, de ses racines, Ă  jamais liĂ©es Ă  l’Ăąme de Cocles. Alors que la nuit tombe Ă  Cocles, je me souviens que mon rĂŽle de commissaire ne peut se limiter aux politiques et aux dĂ©cisions. Il s’agit de comprendre le cƓur d’une communautĂ©, de construire des ponts et de gĂ©nĂ©rer des accords entre toutes les parties qui vivent dans la communautĂ©. Veiller Ă  ce que l’expĂ©rience humaine soit honorĂ©e et prĂ©servĂ©e. Ce voyage avec les Brown et la communautĂ© afro-caribĂ©enne de Cocles dans son ensemble est un rappel poignant du pouvoir de l’empathie, de la comprĂ©hension et du lien indissoluble entre les gens et leur terre.

Cocles n’est qu’un petit point de la province de LimĂłn, sur la cĂŽte caraĂŻbe du Costa Rica, oĂč se trouve la plus forte concentration de la communautĂ© afro-costaricienne. La population costaricaine possĂšde 11,7% de patrimoine gĂ©nĂ©tique d’ascendance africaine. Ce pourcentage est plus Ă©levĂ© dans les CaraĂŻbes, atteignant 30 %, 14 % dans la rĂ©gion de Guanacaste, 8 % dans la zone sud et 6 % dans la VallĂ©e centrale, selon le recensement de 2011. Douze pour cent des Costaricains s’identifient comme personnes d’ascendance africaine. . En tant que commissaire Ă  l’inclusion sociale de la RĂ©publique du Costa Rica, j’ai eu le grand honneur de dĂ©fendre et de travailler aux cĂŽtĂ©s de cette communautĂ© dynamique avec des milliers de familles comme les Brown.

Premiers dĂ©fis et chemin vers l’inclusion

L’histoire de cette communautĂ© est intimement liĂ©e Ă  l’histoire de notre nation.

Les vagues d’immigrants jamaĂŻcains arrivĂ©s sur nos cĂŽtes Ă  la fin du XIXe siĂšcle et le dĂ©but du XXe siĂšcle ont Ă©tĂ© confrontĂ©s Ă  une multitude de dĂ©fis, allant de la discrimination systĂ©mique aux disparitĂ©s Ă©conomiques. La communautĂ© d’origine africaine est arrivĂ©e au Costa Rica principalement par recrutement pour travailler dans un domaine particulier : la construction du chemin de fer de l’Atlantique et le dĂ©veloppement des plantations de bananes. Cette migration a commencĂ© Ă  la fin du XIXe siĂšcle et au dĂ©but du XXe siĂšcle. Les travailleurs ont Ă©tĂ© recrutĂ©s principalement dans les CaraĂŻbes, en particulier en JamaĂŻque, pour travailler sur ces projets Ă  forte intensitĂ© de main-d’Ɠuvre. La construction du chemin de fer, destinĂ© Ă  relier la capitale, San JosĂ©, au port caribĂ©en de LimĂłn, et l’essor ultĂ©rieur de l’industrie bananiĂšre, ont crĂ©Ă© une demande de main d’Ɠuvre qui ne pouvait ĂȘtre satisfaite localement. Les travailleurs afro-caribĂ©ens Ă©taient embauchĂ©s Ă  la fois pour leur expĂ©rience et pour leur besoin absolu de main d’Ɠuvre.

Il y avait des restrictions de mouvement pour la population afro-caribĂ©enne au Costa Rica ; pendant une pĂ©riode importante, des restrictions juridiques et sociales ont limitĂ© leur mobilitĂ© Ă  l’intĂ©rieur du pays. Plus prĂ©cisĂ©ment, jusqu’en 1949, la loi interdisait aux Noirs de voyager au-delĂ  des zones cĂŽtiĂšres de l’Atlantique vers d’autres rĂ©gions du Costa Rica, y compris San JosĂ©. Cette restriction faisait partie d’un ensemble plus large de discriminations juridiques et sociales auxquelles Ă©tait confrontĂ©e la communautĂ© d’ascendance africaine du Costa Rica. La loi reflĂ©tait les politiques de sĂ©grĂ©gation raciale de l’Ă©poque, qui visaient Ă  limiter l’intĂ©gration des travailleurs afro-caribĂ©ens dans la sociĂ©tĂ© costaricaine au sens large. Ce n’est qu’aprĂšs l’abolition de ces lois, suite Ă  la guerre civile de 1948 et Ă  la rĂ©daction d’une nouvelle constitution en 1949, que les Afro-CaribĂ©ens ont pu circuler librement Ă  l’intĂ©rieur du pays.

Ces derniĂšres annĂ©es, notre gouvernement a tentĂ© de proposer des solutions concrĂštes pour relever ces dĂ©fis. En tant que principe, nous reconnaissons le besoin crucial de politiques et de programmes inclusifs qui non seulement reconnaissent l’histoire et les besoins particuliers de la population afro-costaricienne, mais cĂ©lĂšbrent et valorisent Ă©galement leurs contributions Ă  notre nation.

Initiatives éducatives : une porte vers des opportunités

L’éducation est un pilier fondamental dans notre recherche d’inclusion et d’autonomisation sociale. Ces communautĂ©s sont souvent confrontĂ©es Ă  des obstacles pour accĂ©der Ă  des ressources Ă©ducatives de haute qualitĂ©, comme le manque d’enseignants et d’activitĂ©s extrascolaires qui sont essentielles Ă  une expĂ©rience d’apprentissage complĂšte. L’instabilitĂ© Ă©conomique exacerbe encore ces problĂšmes, car elle oblige les enfants issus de milieux historiquement marginalisĂ©s Ă  Ă©quilibrer les revenus familiaux et leurs responsabilitĂ©s Ă©ducatives, souvent dans des environnements peu propices aux Ă©tudes. De plus, le degrĂ© de reprĂ©sentation culturelle au sein du programme joue un rĂŽle essentiel dans l’engagement et la rĂ©ussite des Ă©tudiants. Un programme qui ne reflĂšte pas l’histoire, la culture et les perspectives des Ă©lĂšves issus de minoritĂ©s peut conduire Ă  une dĂ©connexion et Ă  un sentiment d’aliĂ©nation. Cette situation est exacerbĂ©e par les expĂ©riences de discrimination et de prĂ©jugĂ©s raciaux, qui non seulement entravent la motivation scolaire, mais peuvent Ă©galement avoir des effets nĂ©fastes sur la santĂ© mentale des Ă©tudiants noirs, entraĂźnant potentiellement de moins bons rĂ©sultats scolaires et des taux d’abandon plus Ă©levĂ©s. Ensemble, ces facteurs crĂ©ent un ensemble complexe de dĂ©fis qui nĂ©cessitent des politiques Ă©ducatives globales et adaptĂ©es Ă  la culture pour les relever efficacement.

Le Costa Rica a Ă©tĂ© confrontĂ© Ă  des difficultĂ©s pour maintenir la continuitĂ© Ă©ducative pendant la pandĂ©mie. Le passage Ă  l’apprentissage Ă  distance a mis en Ă©vidence, voire exacerbĂ©, les inĂ©galitĂ©s existantes en matiĂšre d’éducation en raison des diffĂ©rences d’accĂšs Ă  la technologie, de connectivitĂ© Internet et d’environnements d’apprentissage propices Ă  la maison. Les communautĂ©s marginalisĂ©es, notamment celles d’ascendance africaine, ont Ă©tĂ© particuliĂšrement touchĂ©es par ces dĂ©fis, qui pourraient entraĂźner une diminution des rĂ©sultats d’apprentissage. Cette tendance reflĂšte la tendance mondiale selon laquelle la COVID-19 a touchĂ© de maniĂšre disproportionnĂ©e les communautĂ©s marginalisĂ©es, y compris celles d’ascendance africaine, dans divers aspects, tels que la santĂ©, la stabilitĂ© Ă©conomique et l’éducation.

En collaboration avec des Ă©tablissements d’enseignement privĂ©s, nous avons lancĂ© un projet ambitieux visant Ă  offrir des bourses Ă  des groupes marginalisĂ©s, notamment aux personnes d’ascendance africaine. Cette initiative donne accĂšs Ă  l’Ă©ducation Ă  travers la promotion de l’autosuffisance et la consolidation de ces communautĂ©s.

Notre alliance avec l’Institut COSVIC, un fournisseur costaricain de services Ă©ducatifs avec plus de 30 ans de prĂ©sence sur le marchĂ©, est dĂ©diĂ©e Ă  la formation de professionnels dans un large Ă©ventail de domaines acadĂ©miques et techniques qui utilisent des mĂ©thodes d’enseignement actives, des installations modernes et des projets multidisciplinaires. et du talent. initiatives de dĂ©couverte. Avec 22 sites dans tout le pays, il propose plus de 80 parcours professionnels, dont des cours accrĂ©ditĂ©s par l’INA et des cours en ligne, et a octroyĂ© 800 bourses acadĂ©miques complĂštes, tĂ©moignage de cet engagement. Ces bourses constituent une bouĂ©e de sauvetage financiĂšre pour les personnes qui se sont longtemps vu refuser la possibilitĂ© d’étudier en raison de leurs antĂ©cĂ©dents ou de leur situation Ă©conomique. Environ la moitiĂ© de ces bourses sont destinĂ©es Ă  des personnes d’ascendance africaine.

La socialisation dùs l’enfance est un acte essentiel dans la transmission culturelle afro-descendante.

Autonomisation grñce à la formation, à la technologie et à l’emploi

Au-delĂ  de l’éducation traditionnelle, nous reconnaissons l’importance de la formation professionnelle et des opportunitĂ©s d’emploi. Nous nous sommes concentrĂ©s sur le dĂ©veloppement de programmes de formation technique dans des dizaines de domaines qui ont une forte demande d’emploi, en fournissant les compĂ©tences nĂ©cessaires pour rĂ©ussir sur le marchĂ© du travail dans des domaines tels que la criminologie, l’Ă©lectricitĂ© automobile, la coiffure, l’assistant patient, la beautĂ© professionnelle et l’assistant vĂ©tĂ©rinaire. .

Par l’intermĂ©diaire du bureau du commissaire, le gouvernement propose des cours techniques d’un Ă  deux ans par l’intermĂ©diaire de l’Institut national d’apprentissage, dotant les Ă©tudiants de compĂ©tences pratiques pertinentes pour l’industrie. Nous facilitons la transition vers le monde du travail, en partenariat avec l’Agence commerciale pour le dĂ©veloppement, diplĂŽmĂ©s de plus de 100 entreprises dans tout le pays.

Les jeunes et les femmes sont au centre de notre travail d’inclusion. En leur fournissant des outils et des opportunitĂ©s pour rĂ©ussir, nous crĂ©ons les futurs leaders de notre pays. Cela comprend des programmes de formation en leadership, des opportunitĂ©s de mentorat et un soutien aux femmes entrepreneures. Travailler au renforcement de ces groupes spĂ©cifiques est essentiel pour construire une sociĂ©tĂ© plus Ă©quitable. Nous y parvenons avec des associations civiles comme AfroCosta Rica. Cette initiative d’information sur les personnes d’origine africaine vise Ă  combler le manque d’information qui touche les communautĂ©s d’origine africaine marginalisĂ©es du Costa Rica en favorisant la sensibilisation Ă  leurs droits, leurs ressources et leur hĂ©ritage historique. Cette initiative vise Ă  Ă©lever les communautĂ©s noires du Costa Rica et vise Ă  Ă©tablir des liens avec les communautĂ©s noires du monde entier, Ă  amĂ©liorer la comprĂ©hension culturelle et Ă  favoriser l’unitĂ©.

AccÚs Internet : réduire la fracture numérique

À l’ùre numĂ©rique d’aujourd’hui, l’accĂšs Ă  Internet est reconnu comme un aspect fondamental des droits humains de la troisiĂšme gĂ©nĂ©ration. Nous nous engageons Ă  rĂ©duire la fracture numĂ©rique, en particulier dans des rĂ©gions comme la cĂŽte caraĂŻbe du Costa Rica, oĂč de nombreuses familles d’ascendance africaine comme les Brown sont confrontĂ©es Ă  une connectivitĂ© Internet limitĂ©e. En donnant la prioritĂ© Ă  l’expansion des services Internet dans la rĂ©gion, nous visons non seulement Ă  dĂ©fendre le droit humain reconnu Ă  l’accĂšs numĂ©rique, mais Ă©galement Ă  doter les communautĂ©s des outils nĂ©cessaires Ă  l’Ă©ducation, Ă  la santĂ©, Ă  la croissance Ă©conomique et Ă  l’inclusion sociale, en garantissant que le riche patrimoine culturel et le potentiel de ces communautĂ©s ne sont pas laissĂ©s pour compte dans notre monde numĂ©rique en Ă©volution rapide. GrĂące Ă  la collaboration entre mon bureau, la municipalitĂ© de LimĂłn et les cĂąblodistributeurs nationaux, nous veillons Ă  ce que l’Internet Ă  haut dĂ©bit ne soit pas un luxe, mais un service de base accessible Ă  tous, avec la collaboration du ministĂšre de la Science et de la Technologie. Ce travail poursuit le programme Internet par satellite qui couvrira toutes les rĂ©gions cĂŽtiĂšres et Talmanca.

Le sport : une plateforme pour l’inclusion et l’unitĂ©

Les sports, en particulier le football, jouent un rĂŽle important dans la culture costaricaine et nous pensons qu’ils peuvent ĂȘtre un puissant moyen de promouvoir l’inclusion et de lutter contre le racisme. Le rĂ©cent incident survenu Ă  la FĂ©dĂ©ration costaricienne de football (FedefĂștbol), dans laquelle un entraĂźneur d’une Ă©quipe de football

La premiĂšre division a Ă©tĂ© sanctionnĂ©e pour comportement raciste, ce qui met en Ă©vidence les dĂ©fis actuels auxquels nous sommes confrontĂ©s. Cependant, cela montre Ă©galement notre volontĂ© de s’attaquer de front Ă  ces problĂšmes. La reconnaissance de cette action par les Nations Unies et le commissaire soussignĂ© souligne l’importance d’Ă©tablir une procĂ©dure sur la maniĂšre dont le racisme devrait ĂȘtre abordĂ© dans le sport et dans la sociĂ©tĂ© en gĂ©nĂ©ral. Dans le domaine sportif, les incidents racistes rĂ©vĂ©lĂ©s sont actuellement scrutĂ©s de prĂšs. L’un de ces incidents concerne un joueur d’une Ă©quipe de football de premiĂšre division qui a Ă©tĂ© accusĂ© d’avoir abusĂ© d’un autre joueur Ă  caractĂšre raciste en le traitant de « singe ». Cette affaire fait actuellement l’objet d’une enquĂȘte active. Conscient de la gravitĂ© de ce problĂšme, je participe activement aux efforts visant Ă  lutter contre le racisme dans le sport. Je coordonne la crĂ©ation d’une commission spĂ©ciale, qui sera rĂ©glementĂ©e par le ministĂšre de la SĂ©curitĂ©, dont l’objectif sera d’Ă©liminer le racisme au sein de la communautĂ© sportive. Je suis le fer de lance de cette initiative et je prĂ©vois d’annoncer plus de dĂ©tails sur nos efforts Ă  mesure que nous avançons.

L’Ă©quipe fĂ©minine de Puerto Viejo est un exemple d’Ă©galitĂ© des sexes dans le sport et de non-discrimination Ă  l’Ă©gard des femmes d’ascendance africaine.

Le sport continue d’ĂȘtre un puissant outil de changement social. Au-delĂ  sanction rĂ©cente contre FedefĂștbol, ​​​​nous utilisons le sport pour unir les communautĂ©s, enseigner les valeurs du travail travail d’Ă©quipe et respect et proposer des activitĂ©s constructives aux jeunes. Les programmes sportifs sont conçus pour ĂȘtre inclusifs, garantissant que chacun, Quelle que soit leur origine, ils ont la possibilitĂ© de participer et d’exceller.

Le projet de football fĂ©minin Ă  Puerto Viejo, LimĂłn, est un emblĂšme du progrĂšs social et de l’autonomisation des femmes dans le sud des CaraĂŻbes du Costa Rica, se distinguant par son hĂ©ritage afro-descendant. L’un des principaux propriĂ©taires du club de football de Puerto Viejo est une femme d’origine africaine originaire de Puerto Viejo, l’une des villes tribales afro du sud des CaraĂŻbes du Costa Rica. Son conseil d’administration est entiĂšrement composĂ© de femmes d’ascendance africaine, l’Ă©quipe se distingue comme la premiĂšre Ă©quipe fĂ©minine de premiĂšre division de Puerto Viejo, renforçant le leadership et la participation des femmes tant sur le terrain que dans la gestion sportive. Ce projet transcende le domaine sportif, favorisant le dĂ©veloppement culturel et social de la rĂ©gion, promouvant l’Ă©galitĂ© des sexes et offrant aux jeunes femmes un espace pour dĂ©velopper leurs compĂ©tences en leadership. Il reprĂ©sente un changement transformateur et est un symbole de fiertĂ©, reflĂ©tant la diversitĂ© et l’hĂ©ritage des personnes d’ascendance africaine.

DĂ©cret n° 43532 – Reconnaissance de l’auto-reconnaissance de la population afro-costaricienne en tant que peuple tribal.

Le Forum des peuples tribaux d’ascendance africaine du Costa Rica est un organe de consultation, de dialogue et de coordination entre les peuples tribaux afro-costariciens et l’État, les organisations nationales et internationales, pour surveiller et faire respecter les droits de l’homme reconnus dans la Convention n° 169 relative aux droits de l’homme. Peuples. Droits autochtones et tribaux et autres instruments internationaux relatifs aux droits de l’homme applicables aux peuples tribaux d’ascendance africaine, tels que le Programme d’action et la DĂ©claration de la troisiĂšme ConfĂ©rence mondiale contre le racisme, la discrimination raciale, la xĂ©nophobie et les formes d’intolĂ©rance qui y sont associĂ©es ; le Consensus de Montevideo sur la population et le dĂ©veloppement ; la DĂ©cennie internationale des personnes d’ascendance africaine ; le Programme de dĂ©veloppement durable Ă  l’horizon 2030 et la crĂ©ation rĂ©cente du Forum permanent des Nations Unies sur les personnes d’ascendance africaine en vertu de la rĂ©solution n° A/75/L.119.

Patrimoine, Tradition et Modernité

Un facteur important dans la promotion de la diversitĂ© et du patrimoine est la stimulation des activitĂ©s traditionnelles, qui peuvent stimuler le tourisme et la crĂ©ation d’activitĂ©s Ă©conomiques. La cĂ©lĂ©bration du dĂ©filĂ© Wolaba, par exemple, a lieu en aoĂ»t, qui commĂ©more le Mois des Noirs et de la culture afro-descendante. Pendant cette pĂ©riode, nos racines afro sont cĂ©lĂ©brĂ©es et reconnues. Et ce festival particulier met en valeur le caractĂšre unique de la tribu afro locale, ainsi que son lien avec la mer et la terre en tant qu’aspect intrinsĂšque de leur identitĂ© culturelle.

Le Grand Gala Parade de LimĂłn est une autre dĂ©monstration spectaculaire de la culture et de l’esprit de la communautĂ© afro-costaricienne. Le gouvernement costaricain a dĂ©clarĂ© ce dĂ©filĂ© patrimoine culturel immatĂ©riel du pays, rĂ©affirmant ainsi l’importance du dĂ©filĂ© dans la sphĂšre culturelle nationale et ouvrant Ă©galement les portes aux institutions publiques pour collaborer Ă  sa rĂ©alisation, sa promotion et sa diffusion.

L’origine de cette cĂ©lĂ©bration remonte Ă  la premiĂšre Convention internationale sur le statut des Noirs en aoĂ»t 1920. Il s’agissait d’un Ă©vĂ©nement international qui rassemblait Ă  New York des dĂ©lĂ©guĂ©s de 25 pays de quatre continents. Ici a Ă©tĂ© proclamĂ©e la « DĂ©claration des droits des nĂšgres », qui a jetĂ© les bases de la lutte contre les inĂ©galitĂ©s et la discrimination raciale. Cela a marquĂ© un moment charniĂšre dans la reconnaissance et la protection mondiales des droits des Noirs. Dans les annĂ©es 1980, le 31 aoĂ»t Ă©tait dĂ©clarĂ© au Costa Rica la cĂ©lĂ©bration de la « JournĂ©e noire ». Initiative promue par le Syndicat costaricien des Ă©ducateurs (SEC). Des annĂ©es plus tard, une extension de la cĂ©lĂ©bration a Ă©tĂ© dĂ©crĂ©tĂ©e comme la « JournĂ©e de la personne noire et de la culture afro-costaricienne ».

Le dĂ©filĂ© met en valeur les sons de la musique, les arĂŽmes de la cuisine locale, les couleurs vibrantes des vĂȘtements traditionnels et l’esprit joyeux de ses habitants qui dansent sur la musique. Tout comme nous observons des danses traditionnelles qui racontent des histoires d’ancĂȘtres et d’hĂ©ritages, il existe Ă©galement des rythmes contemporains qui parlent des luttes et des triomphes actuels. Le dĂ©filĂ© est une confluence du passĂ© et du prĂ©sent.

L’avenir du Grand Gala Parade s’annonce plus prometteur que jamais grĂące Ă  cette nouvelle reconnaissance accordĂ©e par le gouvernement. Elle est prĂ©sentĂ©e comme une opportunitĂ© d’éduquer, d’inspirer et d’unifier. C’est une opportunitĂ© pour les jeunes gĂ©nĂ©rations de se connecter avec leur patrimoine et pour la communautĂ© nationale et internationale de comprendre et d’apprĂ©cier la richesse de la culture afro-costaricienne.

Créer des routes économiques à Limón

La province de LimĂłn, avec sa grande communautĂ© afro-caribĂ©enne, a Ă©tĂ© notre grand promoteur de ces initiatives. L’objectif est de rĂ©pondre aux besoins immĂ©diats, mais surtout d’Ă©tablir les

bases d’un dĂ©veloppement Ă©conomique durable. Pour y parvenir, nous nous concentrons sur l’emploi individuel et sur la crĂ©ation d’un environnement dans lequel les entreprises peuvent prospĂ©rer. Par exemple, la zone franche de BĂșfalo de LimĂłn crĂ©e un effet multiplicateur dans

opportunitĂ©s d’emploi, ce qui signifie inclusion.

À LimĂłn, nous avons lancĂ© des programmes pour promouvoir l’entrepreneuriat local, en particulier parmi les jeunes et les femmes, Ă  travers la crĂ©ation du ministĂšre de l’Économie, de l’Industrie et Commerce. En offrant des opportunitĂ©s de financement de dĂ©marrage, de mentorat et de rĂ©seautage, nous donnons les moyens Ă  une nouvelle gĂ©nĂ©ration de chefs d’entreprise. Un aspect clĂ© de notre stratĂ©gie d’inclusion sociale consiste Ă  impliquer le secteur privĂ©. Nous travaillons avec les entreprises pour les encourager Ă  embaucher un pourcentage de notre population afin que leur reprĂ©sentation soit plus grande chaque annĂ©e. Cette initiative favorise une culture de diversitĂ© et d’inclusion au sein du secteur privĂ©, ce qui en fait un participant actif dans le cheminement de notre pays vers une plus grande Ă©galitĂ©.

Cette approche vise Ă  revitaliser l’Ă©conomie de LimĂłn de l’intĂ©rieur, en crĂ©ant un un vaste marchĂ© local qui peut contribuer de maniĂšre significative au paysage Ă©conomique national. Puerto LimĂłn est une ville vitale sur la cĂŽte caraĂŻbe du Costa Rica, agissant comme le principal canal d’Ă©changes et de commerce du pays. Au-delĂ  de son importante zone de libre-Ă©change, qui soutient l’Ă©conomie locale, la ville prospĂšre grĂące au tourisme, Ă  l’agriculture et Ă  une forte industrie de la pĂȘche et de fabrication, tant Ă  l’intĂ©rieur qu’Ă  l’extĂ©rieur de la zone de libre-Ă©change. De plus, le rĂŽle de la ville en matiĂšre de transport et de logistique est indispensable au commerce international, car elle traite un volume important de marchandises qui stimule l’Ă©conomie. De plus, le secteur des services, qui englobe la vente au dĂ©tail, l’hĂŽtellerie, la santĂ© et l’éducation, rĂ©pond au double objectif de servir Ă  la fois les rĂ©sidents et les visiteurs. Ensemble, ces secteurs soulignent la diversitĂ© Ă©conomique et l’importance de Puerto LimĂłn en tant que centre Ă©conomique crucial du Costa Rica, tirant parti de sa position stratĂ©gique, de ses ressources naturelles et de ses infrastructures pour favoriser la croissance et le dĂ©veloppement.

Visions du futur : projets de marinas et d’aĂ©roports internationaux

En regardant vers l’avenir, nous pouvons voir LimĂłn se transformer en un centre de commerce et Tourisme international. Des plans pour une nouvelle marina et un aĂ©roport international sont en cours Mars, inspirĂ© de modĂšles Ă  succĂšs d’autres rĂ©gions comme Guanacaste, au nord du pays. Ces projets concernent la croissance Ă©conomique, mais ils impliquent avant tout l’ouverture de LimĂłn au monde. Pouvoir ainsi montrer sa riche culture et offrir de nouvelles opportunitĂ©s Ă  ses rĂ©sidents.

Cette annĂ©e, on s’attend Ă  ce que l’analyse de facteurs tels que la configuration des vagues prenne beaucoup de temps, en se concentrant exclusivement sur l’aĂ©roport international de LimĂłn.

La ville de LimĂłn, contrairement Ă  la rĂ©gion qui l’entoure, se caractĂ©rise par ĂȘtre la moins visitĂ©e par les touristes Ă©trangers, principalement en raison du manque d’infrastructures touristiques adĂ©quates, telles que des hĂŽtels et d’autres Ă©lĂ©ments essentiels au tourisme. Ce dĂ©ficit a motivĂ© la crĂ©ation du projet Costa Caribe, qui cherche Ă  dĂ©finir les investissements publics et privĂ©s nĂ©cessaires pour promouvoir le tourisme dans la rĂ©gion. Actuellement, le tourisme Ă  LimĂłn est limitĂ© et aucune croissance significative n’est prĂ©vue sans la prĂ©sence d’un aĂ©roport fonctionnel, l’achĂšvement de l’autoroute 32 et le dĂ©veloppement d’infrastructures touristiques rĂ©pondant aux demandes actuelles du secteur.

Les dĂ©fis liĂ©s Ă  la promotion du tourisme et du commerce international Ă  LimĂłn comprennent la crĂ©ation d’infrastructures touristiques adĂ©quates et le dĂ©veloppement de produits touristiques attrayants. Bien que LimĂłn attire les visiteurs des navires de croisiĂšre qui viennent quelques heures par jour pendant la saison, des excursions les emmĂšnent dans des endroits comme Tortuguero au nord, et Cahuita, Puerto Viejo et Manzanillo au sud de la cĂŽte caraĂŻbe, au centre-ville de LimĂłn et dans d’autres districts. de la province sont confrontĂ©s Ă  des situations prĂ©caires en matiĂšre touristique. Cela souligne le besoin urgent d’amĂ©liorations et de dĂ©veloppements pour revitaliser le tourisme et le commerce dans la rĂ©gion.

Dans toutes nos initiatives de dĂ©veloppement, nous sommes conscients de l’impact environnemental qu’elles peuvent gĂ©nĂ©rer. LimĂłn, avec ses jungles tropicales luxuriantes et ses plages paradisiaques, est un trĂ©sor naturel qu’il faut prĂ©server.

Autonomisation grùce aux comités consultatifs

Le ComitĂ© consultatif sur l’inclusion sociale, composĂ© de reprĂ©sentants de la sociĂ©tĂ© civile et du gouvernement, que je prĂ©side, sert de plateforme de dialogue et de prise de dĂ©cision, garantissant que les voix des communautĂ©s marginalisĂ©es sont entendues aux plus hauts niveaux du gouvernement. Ce comitĂ© est un lieu de consultation en tant que participant actif Ă  l’Ă©laboration de politiques qui affectent la vie des Costaricains dans tous les pays.

Avec les liaisons afro-descendantes, avant l’expiration de leur mandat ; Entre autres actions, des rĂ©unions ont Ă©tĂ© demandĂ©es avec le ministĂšre de l’Éducation pour aborder la rĂ©novation du lycĂ©e de Puerto Viejo, actuellement en reconstruction ; Les fonds sont situĂ©s Ă  Kekoldi. Le comitĂ© consultatif permet Ă  la sociĂ©tĂ© civile de soumettre ses prĂ©occupations et ses problĂšmes Ă  la table du commissaire. Il y a eu deux rĂ©unions avec le ministre des Travaux publics et des Transports publics sur les liens afro-descendants pour discuter de l’avancement du projet d’aĂ©roport. Cet effort est considĂ©rĂ© comme apportant un soutien institutionnel aux territoires locaux et apportant des rĂ©ponses Ă  la communautĂ©. Le ComitĂ© civique de LimĂłn m’a demandĂ©, en tant que commissaire, de faciliter les relations avec le gouvernement, une demande que le comitĂ© a faite similaire Ă  celle du comitĂ© de Wolaba Parade. Je crois que l’expression culturelle met en valeur l’ascendance africaine. Ne pas rĂ©agir ou crĂ©er intentionnellement des obstacles en refusant des permis, en s’engageant dans des formalitĂ©s administratives ou en employant d’autres tactiques pour supprimer l’expression culturelle constitue une attaque directe contre l’identitĂ© d’ascendance africaine, effaçant de fait sa visibilitĂ© et perpĂ©tuant la discrimination.

Un aspect notable de l’ascendance africaine est son pacifisme, comme le rĂ©vĂšle le regard de la femme dans le graphique.

Un engagement de progrĂšs continu

À mesure que nous avançons, il est essentiel de garder Ă  l’esprit que l’inclusion sociale est un cheminement continu et non une destination. Les progrĂšs que nous avons rĂ©alisĂ©s Ă  LimĂłn et dans tout le Costa Rica sont significatifs, mais Il y a encore beaucoup de travail Ă  faire. GrĂące Ă  une collaboration continue, Ă  l’innovation et Ă  un engagement profond en faveur de l’égalitĂ©, nous continuons de repousser les limites de ce qui est possible. Notre objectif est de crĂ©er un Costa Rica oĂč tous ont la possibilitĂ© de rĂ©ussir et les mĂȘmes opportunitĂ©s. C’est pour cette raison que j’invite tous les Costaricains, de tous les secteurs sociaux, Ă  se joindre Ă  cette effort inclusif, sur cette voie de l’égalitĂ© des chances. Ce n’est que grĂące Ă  nos efforts collectifs, nous pouvons crĂ©er un changement durable. Si vous ĂȘtes Ă©tudiant, entrepreneur, professionnel de la santĂ© ou leader communautaire, vous avez un rĂŽle Ă  jouer dans la construction un Costa Rica plus inclusif.  En tant que commissaire chargĂ© de l’inclusion sociale, je m’engage Ă  poursuivre ces efforts, travailler sans relĂąche pour que chaque Costaricien, quelle que soit sa ascendance, vous avez la possibilitĂ© de vivre une vie avec dignitĂ© et un but. Ensemble nous sommes Ă©crire un nouveau chapitre de l’histoire de notre nation, un chapitre d’espoir, l’inclusion et le progrĂšs pour des gens comme les Browns.

 

Ricardo Sossa Ortiz sert en tant que commissaire Ă  l’inclusion sociale du Costa Rica et conseiller du prĂ©sident de la RĂ©publique. Il est un dĂ©fenseur passionnĂ© de la diversitĂ© culturelle et de l’inclusion, dĂ©terminĂ© Ă  approfondir l’expĂ©rience afro-costaricienne grĂące Ă  des recherches approfondies et Ă  un engagement communautaire actif. Sossa-Ortiz est issu d’une riche formation avec un baccalaurĂ©at en journalisme du Costa Rica, une maĂźtrise en sciences politiques et un doctorat. en sociologie, de l’UniversitĂ© de Paris, France.

Son travail humanitaire a été reconnu par un doctorat honorifique décerné à San José, Costa Rica en 2023.

 

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