The links between Wales and Latin America date back to the 19th century, and migration has been a two-way street. In 1865, an estimated 150 Welsh people made the tortuous 8,000 mile journey to Patagonia and established a Welsh migrant community that still exists today. In the Chubut Valley, a region governed by Argentina, within sight of the Andes mountains and with the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic to the east, these Welsh explorers certainly fulfilled their ambition to walk their own path.
The Latin American migrants who come to 21st century Wales are walking their own path too, and it often leads to something exciting and vibrant that makes Wales a richer, more interesting country.
Since 2019 they’ve been able to count on the unwavering support of the Iberian and Latin American Association in Wales. Starting as a group that encouraged members to explore each other’s cultures, the Association evolved to offer support where and how it was needed most. For asylum seekers and refugees, that includes invaluable help with healthcare and orientation, and advice on how to navigate the immigration regulations of their adopted country.
It also includes offering talented, imaginative people of all ages a showcase for their creativity. Frequent events throughout the year remind the people of Swansea of the gifts our new friends give us. On March 16th we will have the most vibrant and memorable reminder of all, with the 2024 Iberian & Latin American Festival at the Swansea Grand Theatre Multicultural Hub.
A packed programme running from 11am to 9pm will offer films, talks, poetry readings, arts and crafts, a painting and photography exhibition and a dance presentation. It will also offer interaction, with audience members invited to share their views on the social, cultural and economic impact of immigration as part of a featured panel discussion.
Dr Patricia Rodríguez-Martínez-Jones, the Association Chair and a tireless advocate for integration and inclusion, is eager to emphasise that the event is not only for ILA members.
“Naturally we will have a strong turnout from Association members, who make such a positive contribution to Welsh life. And we also look forward to engaging with a wider audience, the people of Swansea, whatever their ethnic origins. Swansea is a City of Sanctuary and its people have repeatedly made Latin American immigrants feel welcome and valued. On March 16th, we will say thank you with a day of celebration.
Booking is essential, as tickets are already being snapped up. The price for the day is £7 per person for non-ILA members and you can take advantage of early-bird pricing and get your ticket for just £5 by booking before 5pm on February 29th.
See you there!