The reality of Honduras is more complex than reflected in desires and slogans. The junta has maintained – in the face of international pressure – the unity of the political upper-class and its institutions, the backing of the army and the support of broad sectors of the population.
At the beginning of the year, I warned of an eminent conservative shift as well as the gradual decline of progressive experiences, born out of the coordination of social protest and institutional reform that has typified the past decade in Latin America.
A look of suspicion was visible on the face of the park’s custodian when we explained that we were there as Latin Americans and free citizens. I’ll never forget his bewildered expression…
Looking at them reminds me of moments when images like these accompanied our doubt, anger, choices and hopes. I think of their reactions to the messages that these materials transmit, be they humdrum or suggestive.
Cubans exemplary performance under crisis becomes negated by the lack of grassroots participation in the follow-up. Many people climb down into trenches to clean drainage systems in their neighborhood, but only a select few can monitor the progress of the recovery effort from above.
There has been a noticeable, radical and extensive change in human behavior. Although Xalapa has not been strongly hit by the epidemic, prudent people are wearing facemasks, limiting their usual activities, and spending more time at home with their families.
Born into a situation of daily shortages, equity under siege, and a discourse of intransigence, the generation of my students will be the target audience of the seduction of Obamania. The new US administration, practical and intelligent, seems determined to seek diplomatic means to a more relaxed modus vivendi with its socialist neighbor.
When activism is discouraged by frustrations and sanctions, where the press portrays a country that is unreal, and where personal solutions are found through illegalities or infractions, to embrace a spontaneous economic liberalism appears as common sense for a good part of my compatriots.