A Day of Pride and Challenge: Colombian Independence Day Festival

In July 2023, I had the honor of participating in the Colombian Independence Day festival in Washington DC. Setting up my own table at such a significant event was both exhilarating and humbling. It was a day of vibrant celebration, filled with music, dance, and the rich culture of Colombia.

The support I received from my loved ones made the day truly special. My mother came to help me set up and stayed with me all day, decorating the space beautifully and ensuring I had food and water. My great friend Amy worked tirelessly with me in the days leading up to the event, designing our posters, planning the festival space, and capturing moments as our photographer.

During the festival, I met a captivating young woman named Natalie, who would later become an incredibly close friend and eventually come to live with me. The end of the day was equally heartwarming as my friend Emma arrived to help pack everything up, load it into my car, and unpack it at home. We celebrated the day’s accomplishments over dinner, and she provided much-needed counsel on my frustrations.

While many attendees were enthusiastic about Proyecto Chigayaco, I was also met with skepticism. Some expressed doubts about the impact of our work, believing that Colombia's issues with coca cultivation and corruption were too entrenched. This unexpected reaction shook my confidence, but the support from my friends and family reminded me of the importance of our mission.

Despite the challenges, that day was filled with love and camaraderie. It reaffirmed my belief that nobody achieves great things alone and that collective efforts can make a significant difference.