Inspired by their experiences and guided by the psychosocial team of the Victims Unit, the community of Gualara, located in the rural area of Chaparral (Tolima) and which suffered damage as a result of the conflict, developed the third meeting of Tejiendonos strategy, which its objective was to reflect on the importance of social and traditional practices, as actions that give meaning to life in community and favor coexistence.
For Santiago Cifuentes, a participant in the activity, the actions carried out are strengthening the bonds of friendship between the community. “Everything we have done and we are learning has seemed very good to me. For example, the way to understand each other, to be kinder and even to leave pride. For all this it seems to me very good that the Victims Unit is interested in these situations”, he emphasized.
On a piece of cloth and with a brush and tempera, the 20 participants captured the reflections and experiences of the events suffered as a result of the conflict and that were the cause of uprooting and sometimes the loss of their loved ones. At the same time, they painted the stages of their lives, goals and achievements as part of social practices and building a better life.
“The strategy has contributed to us being more united and knowing the needs of the other and will help us to empower ourselves to improve our quality of life, and I have great expectations to move forward”, said Carlos Andrés Acevedo, a member of Gualara community.
The Central Territorial Director of the Unit, María José Dangond David, highlighted the commitment of this community and the progress that has been made in compliance with the comprehensive reparation measure. “It is very valuable to find people who despite the difficulties caused by the violence, today are willing to continue believing in institutions and especially in community unity as a strategy to promote projects and aim for a rebirth in their territory”, she said.
At the end of the exercise, commitments were made: each one will continue to decorate their fabric, harmonizing it with their experiences and at the end of the implementation of the strategy, the large quilt will be made as a symbol and representation of the union, its traditions, teamwork and individual contribution for the construction of a new territory.
(End/WPG/CMC/LMY)
