Afro Argentinean history celebrated Nov. 8
This past Friday, Nov, 8, the second annual Afro Argentinean Day march was held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. More than 20 Afro Argentinean organizations united to organize the 2024 Afro March, which began at the Plaza de Mayo and ended at the Plaza de los Dos Congresos. Marchers called for an end to racism and discrimination, and the inclusion of Afro Argentinean history in schools, acceptance of candombe and other African-based religions, and establishment of a National Institute of Afro Argentinean, Afrodescendent, and African Affairs (INAFRO).
The annual display aims to increase awareness of the Afro Argentinean community. It reflects the growing commitment of Afro Argentinean activists to honor their history and advocate for equality and reparations.
In 2013, Argentina established Nov. 8 as its "National Day of Afro Argentines and Afro Culture" through Law 26.852. The law honors the bravery of María Remedios del Valle and serves as a mandate to the Ministry of Culture to enhance support for Afro Argentinean culture.
Remedios del Valle is recognized as the "Mother of the Nation" for her role in caring for Argentinean soldiers on the front lines during the fight for independence in the early 1800s, alongside fellow Afro Argentineans.
Remedios del Valle saw her family die during these battles. She was taken prisoner and beaten, escaped, and later served more time in battle on the front lines. Because of her bravery and loyalty, Argentinean military leader General Manuel Belgrano gave Remedios del Valle the title of captain. However, after the independence struggles, Remedios del Valle's bravery was forgotten by the Argentinean government.
A special petition had to be drawn up for her to receive a pension at her advanced age. She is said to have died poor and sick, wandering through the squares of colonial Buenos Aires. The exact date of Remedios del Valle's death is not known, but historians believe she died sometime between Oct. 28 and Nov. 8 of 1847.
This year's Afro Argentinean Day March was peaceful; however, activists criticized the government's intimidating display of force. Security forces encircled marchers with anti-riot vehicles, and filmed and photographed march participants as they passed through the streets.
