Nestled unassumingly and slightly off the beaten path lies the captivating enclave of Palenque, a haven of traditional beauty and rich cultural heritage. Prior to December 22, 2022, this remarkable place remained unbeknown to me, hidden in obscurity.
As the clock struck 7:30 am, we made final preparations for our journey to Cartagena, Colombia. The anticipation of spending Christmas there and the profound impact that Our Pearls for Girls would have on the young girls of Cartagena filled our hearts. However, our endeavor's precise nature and location were still shrouded in mystery. In a gracious act of kindness, our neighbor offered us a villa in Barranquilla to hold our event. Armed with the names and ages of the girls and a growing collection of gifts, we set out on our mission. Little did we know that fate had something truly magical in store for us. It was at this moment that we discovered the enchanting realm of Palenque.
Founded in the 16th century by the enigmatic Benkos Biohó, a former African king sold into slavery, Palenque's exact date of establishment remains a mystery. Fleeing from the clutches of his captors, Biohó led a daring escape from the slave port of Cartagena in 1599, seeking refuge amidst the southern swamps. Rallying a band of fellow escapees, he successfully established a stronghold near the Montes de María, birthing the settlement of San Basilio de Palenque. This humble community of approximately 4,000 residents holds immense historical significance, yet it remains overlooked by many travelers and scarcely mentioned in travel guides. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, Palenque stands as a testament to the intangible heritage of humanity. Within its protective walls, this haven gradually flourished, nurtured by the resilience of its small group of liberated individuals who found solace in the mountainous terrain. The proclamation of freedom by a royal decree from the Spanish Crown in 1691 marked a pivotal moment in history, making the inhabitants of Palenque the first free Africans in the Americas and transforming the settlement into the first liberated city. Today, a monument in the central square commemorates the visionary founder, Benkos Biohó.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted by a chorus of joyful songs emanating from the angelic faces of the children, who had eagerly assembled to welcome us to this storied sanctuary—the first free slave town in the Americas. It was an awe-inspiring sight that moved us deeply.
Palenque unveiled its breathtaking beauty as we nourished the children, reveled in dance, and engaged in playful games. None of these precious moments would have been possible without the benevolent donors and individuals we encountered. The Board of Directors of Our Pearls played a pivotal role, offering a generous contribution that enabled us to procure toys and other essential items for the children. I will never forget the heartfelt encounters during our shopping spree, where, without prompting, two generous individuals made an impromptu donation to aid Palenque's children. Their gestures of kindness left an indelible mark on my spirit, underscoring the profound impact that even the smallest act of compassion can have. The true highlight of our journey was witnessing the radiant joy emanating from the children as they immersed themselves in the various activities. It was a spectacle of pure beauty. To have the opportunity to touch lives, even in the smallest of ways, is a privilege that never ceases to amaze me. As we extend ourselves to uplift others and witness the transformative power of our actions, we are humbled and grounded, reminded of our insignificance in the grand tapestry of our vast world.
“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” – Helen Dyer
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