9.30.2024

Bailando Caporales Yo Me Conoci

Allillanchu!

It's been a while since I've posted on this blog...but I wish to give my readers a big virtual hug and I hope everything has been well! And if it hasn't - it's okay, because we all have our ups and downs but there's always a way to stand up after we fall. I've acquired a new hobby that I've been longing to do for a long time, and after several years of being too shy to do so, I finally did it and it has CHANGED MY LIFE! 

As a first-generation American born and raised in Queens, NY, I've always felt a deep connection to my Peruvian heritage. For the past three years, my journey as a folkloric Peruvian dancer, specializing in Caporales, has been nothing short of transformative. This experience has opened my eyes to the vibrant and diverse Peruvian immigrant communities across New York and New Jersey, revealing a beautiful tapestry of shared culture and identity.

What strikes me most is how dance brings together Peruvians from all walks of life. Whether it's fellow Peruvian-Americans like myself, those who immigrated at a young age, or recent arrivals, we all share a common desire: to stay connected to our roots. Through Caporales, we've found a powerful way to express our heritage and keep our Peruvian identity alive in a new land.

Every performance is more than just a dance; it's a representation of the towns in Peru where Caporales is cherished. As we move to the rhythm, we're not just entertaining – we're embodying the passion and traditions of our ancestors. This connection to our homeland is palpable, creating a bridge between our lives here and our cultural origins.

But it's not just about the dance. Our gatherings are a celebration of all things Peruvian. We share stories in our native Spanish, savoring the familiar sounds of home. We indulge in traditional Peruvian cuisine, each bite a reminder of family gatherings and childhood memories. Our customs and traditions, preserved and practiced, become a living link to Peru.

These experiences have shown me the incredible resilience and unity of immigrant communities. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, we've created a home away from home. Through dance, language, food, and shared experiences, we've built a community that honors our past while embracing our present.

As I continue my journey in Caporales, I'm filled with pride and gratitude. Pride in my Peruvian heritage, and gratitude for this beautiful community that keeps our culture thriving across generations and borders. In every step and every beat, we dance not just for ourselves, but for the spirit of Peru that lives on in each of us. This dance has changed my life, changed me...BAILANDO CAPORALES YO ME CONOCI.



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