This conference is designed to provide a comprehensive overview program of field
study in AfroCuban religion, culture, history and the arts,
with a focus on the contemporary cultures of the central and eastern regions of Cuba.
The Program will include personal interviews with believers of various African derived
traditions including Santeria, Palo Monte, Spiritism, Voudu, and expressions of these
beliefs in everyday life, art and music. There will be public and private ceremonies,
lectures, visits to artists' galleries and studios, temple houses, and meetings with
community leaders.
Areas of study include CubanYoruba, CubanKongo, CubanHaitian, CubanWest Indian and syncretic popular traditions. Emphasis will be placed upon the differences that give each belief and community its unique voice, and the traditional symbiotic relationships of ritual, music, dance and art. Lectures addressing the respective contexts and historical backgrounds will enhance the field program. In Santiago, the participants will draw upon their experiences during the discussion of papers presented at the Caribbean Unites Us Conference, which takes place during the annual Fiesta del Fuego celebrations.
FEES INCLUDE:
Round trip airfare to Matanzas/from Santiago with departures form Toronto (direct
flight), Cancun, or Nassau (arrive Havana with domestic connections between Matanzas
and Santiago - due to undependable flight schedules forced overnights in Cuba in/out
may be required at additional cost), 14 nights accommodation double occupancy in
mostly air-conditioned rooms with private bath, breakfast and dinner daily, 3 lunches,
coordination of visits and exchanges, conference registration, translators, local
facilitators, ground transportation via modern air-conditioned minibus, Cuban visa,
processing of U.S. Travel License application on request.
TRAVEL DATES:
June 21 - July 05, 1997