September 15 is a very important day for not only Guatemalans
but all of Central America. On this day last week, it marked 193 years of Guatemala’s
and Central America’s independence from the Spanish crown. It is celebrated
with parades, high school marching bands, fireworks (more than usual that is),
food and much festivity.
In the Family Support Centre it was no different. Thursday last week leading up to the almost
week long celebrations, the Family Support Centre once again turned chaotic
with the arrival of this year’s Mini-Feria. And the fact the rain forced
everyone inside, only heightened the craziness and fun.
As always there were decorations, food, games, prizes,
smiles and laughter. The mothers had all laboured hard over the previous days
to supply the kids and each other with a smorgasbord of treats and snacks.
The day started off with the formal national flag ceremony
and anthem, which was followed by a very important speech regarding the true
independence of Guatemala.
 |
| Ilcy, Yesica and Wilson bearing the national and department flags for the National Anthem. |
Despite being called Independence Day, it is hard to say that
the people of Guatemala and much of Central America, for that matter, were
every really made independent: rather that its control and profits was transferred
from a small elite in Spain to a smaller elite of Spaniards living in
Guatemala. With an economy controlled by corrupt bureaucrats, manipulated and
tainted by the west; a vast majority of people without the freedom of
self-agency; inaccessibility to
education, health and social services; and an inability to do be who or what
they want to, due to a lack of resources: can Guatemalan’s really be called
‘Independent’?
Thus what was celebrated last week at the Family Support Centre
was not Independence, but the love for a home land, and the initial steps being
undertaken towards the nation’s freedom; achieved through, what the Family Support
Centre does best: educating the youth of the Nation.
After this somber reminder of reality, the fun got underway.
With their tickets in hand, the kids and moms devoured the delicacies on offer.
There was crazy corn, cotton candy, enchiladas, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and
of course the obligatory fresh fruit just to name a few.
 |
| Jonathan getting his fill of crazy corn. |
With still half swallowed food in their mouths, the kids
charged full speed into the games. There was the traditional coin toss; ten pin
bowling; the pyramid skittle; the lottery/bingo; bean bag toss; and as with every
year the crowd favourite was foosball. Prizes went flying out the door and the
festivities continued on until dusk began to set in, calling an end to another
fun filled Feria at the Family Support Centre.
 |
| Amy and Evelyn sharing secrets. |
 |
| Tia Leti selling her hot dogs. |
 |
| Yadira winning prizes in ten pin bowling. |
No comments:
Post a Comment