Yesterday morning I spent wondering around the Museu Nacional David Guzman. I have to say I was quite disappointed. In part because of what is missing - such as no mention about the Lenca at all - and in part due to what is said - for example, the time of the Spanish invasion is mostly glossed over.
It was the official history which can't ignore the fact that indigenous lived here in El Salvador but can tell only part of the story. The official story does not inspire, in fact it seems to do the opposite. It does not motivate Salvadorans by helping them know that they, well, at least some, are descendants of people who helped found one of the greatest civilizations the earth has ever known - much greater than what the Spanish conquistadores ever attained. That is the museum I long to visit. But I guess it won't be named after David Guzman. Perhaps it would be the National Museum of Indigenous Pride Anastacio Aquino.
I am Salvadoran and Mexican. The national anthropology museum in Mexico City is so beautiful compared to the David Guzman museum, but unfortunately it's all we really have. I admit I haven't visited Miguel Amaya's museum in Cacaopera. I don't make it out to that part of the country because that's not where my family lives. You might want to check it out though. I think it's called Kakawira. I'm proud to be an indigenous person!
Posted by: Maria | 07/03/2010 at 01:05 PM