Ep 4. Mexico and Peru: The Black Grandma in the Closet

In this episode of Black in Latin America, host Henry Louis Gates Jr. visits Mexico and Peru to explore the complex history and legacy of African slavery in these countries. He begins his journey in Mexico City, where he meets with local Afro-Mexicans to discuss the challenges they face in a society that often ignores their presence. Despite being one of the largest Afro-descendant populations in Latin America, Afro-Mexicans have long been excluded from national conversations about race and identity.

Gates then travels to the state of Veracruz, where he visits the town of Yanga, named after the African slave who led a successful revolt against his Spanish captors in the 16th century. Yanga established a free black community in the region, which became a haven for escaped slaves and others seeking refuge. The town still celebrates its African heritage today, with annual festivals and cultural events that showcase its unique history and identity.

Next, Gates travels to Peru, where he explores the legacy of Afro-Peruvians in the country's music and culture. He visits the city of Lima, where he meets with Afro-Peruvian musicians and learns about the distinctive rhythms and traditions of their music, which blend African and indigenous influences. He also visits the nearby city of Chincha, where he meets a local family whose grandmother had kept her African heritage hidden for many years, until they discovered her collection of African artifacts and learned about their own ancestry.

Throughout the episode, Gates reflects on the history of slavery and racism in Latin America, and the ongoing struggles for recognition and equality faced by Afro-descendant communities across the region. He highlights the contributions of these communities to Latin American culture and history, and the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their unique identities. With engaging storytelling and insightful perspectives, Mexico and Peru: The Black Grandma in the Closet offers a fascinating look at the complexities of race and identity in Latin America.