People of all ages gathered at the Christian Association on Saturday to celebrate the Chilean Independence Day. The musical evening, also called "Pena" or "coffeehouse," due to the informal setting, hosted musicians from various Latin American countries. Music styles ranged from folk to "nueva cancion," or "new song." The entertainment included various groups such as Los Rumberos de la Cinco, Samba Nosso, Coro-Cane, Paramo and Ancestro. They were accompanied by soloists such as Sergio Azocar, an acclaimed Chilean singer, and Mexican guitarists Juan Avila and Javier Aguilar. The musicians played various indigenous instruments ranging from pan pipes and wooden flutes, to the "charango", a five string instrument, made from an armadillo shell. The Pena marked the 20th anniversary of the Chile Committee for Human Rights. The Human Rights Committee was formed shortly after a military coup in Chile overthrew the democratically elected government of Salvador Allende in 1973. The Human Rights Committee co-sponsors the Pena with the Penn Chile Committee to raise awareness of the political status of Chile, as well as to celebrate the Chilean Independence Day. Proceeds from the sale of items made by Chilean political prisoners, food and the entrance fee will be donated to Humans Rights groups in Chile. The Pena, which was attended by more than 200 people, brought together a variety of people. Some came in support of the Chile Committee for Human Rights. "Everything that is a just cause must be supported," said Pablo Roberto Flores, of the Ancestro band. Similarly, Christina Perez, who was born in Mexico, said that she came to show her "solidarity with the nation of Chile." "We like to feel linked with the people in Chile, who are still struggling for a democratic Chile," said Vivian Schatz, a coordinator of the Pena. Others, however, came just to mingle with fellow Latin Americans. Several said the Chilean Independence Day celebration was a good way to unite the Latin American community. "We love the music, food, and the people," said Ada Ruiz, a resident of Cherry Hill.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.
