“Storytelling” refers to sharing narratives, whether orally, in writing, or through other media, to convey meaning, entertainment, or insight.
For many cultures, storytelling is a way to steward their identity, perspectives, and culture.
The middle schoolers began their project by learning about the Cuna people from Panamá and their traditional ¨Molas¨, hand-made textiles crafted by the Cuna or Guna indigenous people from Panama and Colombia. ¨Molas¨ are traditionally a form of cultural expression for the Cuna community.
They all reflected on the stories they would like to tell or highlight and created story banners. Through these banners, different stories are being told. There are themes of values, injustice, compassion and community, environmentalism, resilience, pride, belonging, and hope.
“Let’s turn our frustration, anger, and confusion into empathy, compassion, hope, and love.”
“The purple bird in my mola represents the indigenous tribes of the Kuna people and more. It is trying to fly towards the colorful flowers and embroidery, but being held back by a chain, connected to darker colors which represent pain and sadness. The chain represents the governments from around the world that are keeping indigenous communities from power and freedom.”
“My banner is meant to reflect breaking free from social issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and everything that can challenge one’s sense of self.”
“Beauty is found within, no matter how you look, no matter how you look, don’t change yourself because someone tells you to.”
“The heart in the middle represents everyone coming together. The vines represent the strong things that represent our community. And of course, the flowers represent all types of people.”
“Look for the beauty within.”
