Colectivo Ilé: Anti-Racist Work, Identity, and Resilience in Puerto Rico
Introduction:
On my podcast, I had the opportunity to speak with the beautiful team called Colectivo Ilé. Colectivo Ilé is a pioneering women-led group in Puerto Rico dedicated to anti-racist activism. With over 25 years of experience, Colectivo Ilé has been at the forefront of addressing the root causes of anti-Black racist oppression and effecting systemic change in Puerto Rico and beyond.
Conversation with Colectivo Ilé:
Our conversation with Maya and Kimberly from Colectivo Ilé shed light on the organization’s history, mission, and passionate commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable future. They shared valuable insights into the complex issues of race, identity, and colonialism in Puerto Rico.
Identity and Education:
Colectivo Ilé recognizes the importance of education and dialogue when it comes to understanding and embracing blackness in Puerto Rico. Maya and Kimberly explained that while cultural aspects like dance and food are celebrated, the intellectual and systemic aspects of Afro-descendant identity often go unrecognized. They emphasized the need for Puerto Ricans to redefine their relationship with blackness and challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that persist.
Colonialism and Hurricane Maria:
A defining moment for Colectivo Ilé and Puerto Rico as a whole was the devastating impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017. Maya and Kimberly spoke about how this catastrophe exposed the unequal treatment of Puerto Ricans by the United States government. The lack of support and aid from the mainland triggered a collective awakening, leading people to question their identity and their place within the United States.
Resilience and Taking Action:
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Colectivo Ilé took action by organizing community engagement initiatives. They developed “Calderos,” which were community circles for open discussions about the challenges faced by Afro-descendant women. These gatherings culminated in a community Congress where dreams were shared, collaborations were formed, and new paths toward liberation were envisioned. Maya and Kimberly emphasized the importance of creating spaces for the Afro-descendant community to express themselves, share experiences, and fight for justice.
Shifting Cultural Narratives:
Colectivo Ilé also played a pivotal role in challenging the racial categorization imposed by the U.S. Census. In campaigns such as “Campaña de Cara al Censo” or “Facing the Census,” they raised awareness about the implications of racial classifications and encouraged people to mark their Afro-descendant heritage on the census. By doing so, they aimed to send a powerful political message, highlighting the inequities and demanding recognition for the Puerto Rican Afro-descendant community.
Conclusion:
Colectivo Ilé serves as an emblem of resilience, advocacy, and empowerment. Through their tireless efforts, they have redefined the narrative around Afrodescendant identity in Puerto Rico, sparked conversations about systemic racism, and created spaces for shared dreams and collective action. Colectivo Ilé’s work is a testament to the power that communities have when they come together to challenge oppression and strive for a more inclusive and anti-racist future.
To learn more about Colectivo Ilé and the incredible work they do, visit their website at www.colectivoile.org. Listen to their episode on the Labyrinth of the First Gen here.
Thank you for reading! I hope shedding light on the vital work being done by Colectivo Ilé has inspired you to join the fight against racism and discrimination, wherever you may be.
