Graffiti on the side of a german church in Valparaiso
Café Pu In Valparaiso. A Peruvian restaurant
One of the main reasons I wanted to travel to Chile was to get exposed the culture customs and traditions that mild the experiences of a typical Chilean. This meant learning about the political climate in Chile but not limited to learning about the economy. I wanted to understand current issues that affect this countries demographics whether it be immigration or emigration. In order to get a real sense of what was happening I indulged in a lot of conversation with the locals to grasp a real understanding on immigration in Chile. After various personal narratives I learned about the huge Venezuelan and Peruvian population that immigrated to Chile to find better opportunities in this country as theirs experience a huge financial setback governed by the order of a corrupt government. It’s amazing to walk around and see that a lot of Chileans accepting others into their country. I notice that there are lot for Peruvian and Venezuelan businesses that are all around Santiago and Valparaiso In addition, it was incredibly interesting to see Chileans support these businesses by not only being friendly and accepting of these businesses but by supporting them Although some support immigration the country experiences a strong setback from government. After talking with locals many feel that the president resembles Trump’s as he pushes for tighter control over the flow of immigration. This strong anti immigration platform infests the country as some have take it upon themselves to graffiti Trump’s famous slogan. It’s interesting to see how these two viewpoints play out in a different country. Although I saw both views expressed in a nonviolent matter I wonder about the violence that might occur to draw attention this political debate about immigration in Chile. As I continutue to learn about the political climate in Chile as a student I hope to use my experiences to continue to mold my perspectives on immigrants and the push and pull factors that influence one to immigrate to another country.
Hi Edith!
I really enjoyed seeing your perspective. For me, I was only able to see a slim view of the melting pot that is the Chilean culture. However I think it is amazing that you were able to get more knowledge through your Spanish speaking ability. While I was not able to talk to the residents, I was able to see the inclusiveness through the food. For instance, the last restaurant that I ate at had Venezuelan, Columbian, and Chilean food. Unlike in America, where we have separate places for different culture’s foods, Chile has one for many cultures that reside within it. I feel very sad that America does not have this same ideals and that even people in other countries feel and realize that. As a future planner, I want to make sure that my designs capture all of those who use it such as those in Chile.