Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Afro-Antillean Heritage at Isaac Rabin School

May 21st is recognized as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. This important day promotes understanding and acceptance of different cultures, encourages dialogue between communities, fosters peace and social cohesion, and celebrates cultural diversity as a source of innovation and progress.

As part of our observance of this day and in recognition of Black Ethnicity Month, Isaac Rabin School held a week-long celebration from May 19–23 filled with meaningful activities designed to honor cultural heritage and identity.

Day of the Braids

One of the highlights of the week was the Day of the Braids, a tribute to a traditional hairstyle deeply rooted in Afro-descendant history. Braiding once symbolized escape routes to freedom, patterns used by mothers to teach their daughters how to find refuge and safety. This event celebrated cultural resilience and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge.

To honor this powerful tradition, the school invited professional braiders to create intricate styles for both students and faculty, transforming the day into a living expression of heritage, unity, and pride.

A Special Visit from Prof. Verónica D. Forte

On May 20th, fourth-grade students had the opportunity to meet Prof. Verónica D. Forte, the Vice President of SAMAAP (Sociedad de Amigos del Museo Afroantillano de Panamá). She is a passionate advocate for preserving and promoting Afro-Antillean culture and its contributions to Panamanian history. The museum, located in Panama City’s Calidonia district, features a remarkable collection of artifacts, tools, photographs, and documents that showcase the rich legacy of Afro-Antilleans.

Prof. Verónica D. Fortegraciously shared her knowledge and insights with the students, introducing them to the museum’s mission and the significance of Afro-Antillean heritage. Her visit coincided with Black Ethnicity Month and added profound meaning to the week’s celebrations.

As part of the national observance, the museum organized various events, including a forum-workshop titled “Recovering the Eight Sayings of the Antilleans in the Construction of the Panama Canal and Their Linguistic Legacy.” Held at the Gladys Vidal Theater, the event featured prominent figures, including cultural promoter Berta Alicia Cheng, community leader Arcelio Hartley, sociolinguist Leticia Thomas, and Dr. Ágata Williams.

Hands-On Cultural Learning

Students from 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 8th grades participated in an artesanía workshop, where they learned about traditional craft techniques and even created their jewelry. This hands-on activity deepened their appreciation for cultural artistry and personal expression through heritage.

A Visit from Kafu Banton

On May 22nd, we were honored to welcome Kafu Banton to our school. Born Zico Alberto Garibaldi Roberts on July 3, 1979, in Colón City, Panama, Kafu Banton is a renowned Panamanian artist known for his contributions to Spanish-language reggae, dancehall, and plena. His stage name is a blend of inspiration from Brazilian soccer legend Cafu and reggae icon Buju Banton.

During his visit, Kafu Banton spoke with students about the powerful role music plays in shaping identity, fostering creativity, and building community. He emphasized how rhythm and melody serve as voices of resilience, change, and unity across generations. His message was inspiring, reminding students that music is not only entertainment but also a force for expression, history, and transformation.

Written by: Maria Alejandra Molino, Abraham Benzadon, Antonio Burón 

Edited by: Maria Alejandra Molino and Mar Alzamora