This is my second week here in Rosario and I find myself saddened by the thought that in three weeks I will have to go back home. I am very much enjoying my experience here. I am learning a lot about Argentinian culture, history, food, and its people.
Both the soccer and human rights classes I am taking are teaching me a lot of Argentinian history and culture. It is interesting to see how everything relates. From soccer to human rights to politics, its all connected. And it all helps me understand why politics are so important to people here. It seems that here everyone has a political opinion, unlike the US. Politics and soccer can be seen everywhere, the graffiti, the advertisements, and the passion with which the locals speak of them.
This past week I have learned more of the Argentinian dictatorship that governed during 1976-1983 and of the human rights violations they committed. During the dictatorship the military would “disappear” those people who thought differently. Disappearances are estimated to be 30,000. I visited el Museo de la Memoria. This museum talks about the political violence and injustices committed during the dictatorship as well as the punishments that military officials received after their trials. It was very sad to learn that even pregnant mothers were abducted and tortured. And even more sad to learn that their children were either killed, given up for adoption, kept by military officials, sometimes returned to their grandparents. It is 2014 and they are still reuniting children with their biological families, and las abuelas de plaza de mayo still march in squares demanding justice. This Thursday I hope to attend one of these displays.
Now to a happier topic, soccer!
Yesterday was insanely incredible. After Argentina defeated Belgium and advanced in the World Cup a group of us went to el Monumento de la Bandera where the locals celebrate their wins. I cannot find the words to describe the beautiful chaotic display of national pride. We had been watching the game at a bar close by, so we were there before the crowds started to come in. People, young and old came from all directions. In cars, walking, and in trucks. All waving the Argentinian colors and chanting and dancing. It was an amazing experience and I truly hope Argentina brings the cup home.
I have also visited la casa de tango, el museo experimental de ciencias, and the museo de ciencias naturalez. My visit to la Casa de Tango was a very sweet. There were a lot of older people who sang their favorite tangos. They were all very nice to us and welcoming.
I am in Mexico right now and I have also been studying the history and learning about soccer from the locals! Unlike Argentina, Mexico got eliminated so instead of a huge celebration like you had, much of the city was sad. However, either way, both politics and soccer are big here too!