One thing I absolutely agree with is the fact that independence cannot be told in general terms without silencing other valid ways of understanding it, or by losing the larger view of Latin America. I really appreciate the value that the author gives to each country’s independence, and his effort to compensate this dilemma. The lecture is focused on the ways that independence is narrated through Latin America. Each country has their own version of independence, their own “heroes”, their own celebration dates; however, the desire for freedom and national sovereignty  binds them together. 

After reading Simón Bolivar’s Letter from Jamaica, I wondered what would he said if he was alive right now. A few days ago, Colombia was voting for one of the most important peace agreements in its history, the plebiscite to end the internal conflict, after more than fifty years of civil war. Colombians were called to vote for the same principles that Simon Bolivar dreamt about; justice, liberty, and equality. As a Colombian, I could go on giving arguments on why I think the plebiscite should have passed, and also arguments on why people decided to vote against it. Instead, I am going to limit myself to say that the dream republic of Simon Bolivar was never there. Colombia has never been a united republic, nor one lead by justice, liberty or equality. And as sad and pessimistic as it might sound, this reality is not only true for Colombia, there are several countries in Latin America, if not all of them, that have been/are facing similar struggles. After reading this Letter I was left with a really bittersweet feeling, how is it possible that after all these years, we haven’t been able to step forward significantly? How can I complain or even say that my country is divided between a “SI” or a “NO”, when 63% of the population didn’t show up to vote? Is it that we are lacking a strong and determined leader like Simon Bolivar? or is it that our leaders are just too self-absorbed? Can we  really say that we achieved “independence”? One thing I completely agree with: “When success is not assured, when the state is weak, when results are distantly seen, all men hesitate; opinion is divided, passions rage and the enemy fans these passions in order to win an easy victory because of them”- Simon Bolivar’s Letter.

I have to say that I am impressed by the energy of how the Bolivar’s Letter and José Martí’s text are written. Both portrait their author’s beliefs and how strong they feel about America. I also envy their willingness and determination for a change, for democracy, for justice. Yes, they were ambitious, but after all that Latin Americans have been through, I honestly feel that now a days we lack leaders with these characteristics.

While I was reading Chavez’s speach I found a resemblance to Simon Bolivar’s Letter. It intrigues me the way he is talking in such a determined way, and also brings up issues that were occuring at that time. Also, I thought about how in Venezuela the population was split between whether to supporting Chavez or not, and the critic situation that Venezuela faced a couple of months ago, and keeps facing. It seems like the story keeps repeating over and over again. So, when are we safe to claim a complete independence? Knowing that it implies more than sepparating from other country’s mandate.

(If anyone wants to discuss Colombia’s Plebiscite, I am more than happy to have a conversation about it.)