The Power of the Spectacle in Bolivia

[Judi Lynn]

1. The ancient architecture left in the ruins at Tiahaunaco is mind-boggling.

The material left behind from the remote past, before the Incas, even, is completely unique. So many people have gone there to study it and the singular place it holds in our world.

The choice of holding this ceremony there is compelling, and wonderful for the first Native Bolivian President in post-invasion, post-subjugation, post-slavery, post stolen Bolivia.

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There were thousands of Bolivian social, indigenous and labor movement participants in attendance, yet the presence and enthusiasm of international activists, from Europe to Central America, was very palpable at Tiwanaku. Beyond the many shortcomings and victories of the Morales government nationally, the administration also serves a political purpose outside of Bolivia’s borders, orienting and inspiring people toward an alternative horizon.

As Ana Llao, a Mapuche leader from Chile, explained, she was attending the ceremony “to strengthen the ties between the indigenous peoples of Abya Yala and especially give our support to our brother Evo who is the first indigenous president. I believe that in Latin America and throughout the world, as (Morales) said so well in his speech, that today the indigenous, the original peoples, these social classes are capable of governing. Today Bolivia is demonstrating this.”

Wonderful occasion. Thank you.