Historic town founded by Black Colombians fleeing slavery eyes second ‘independence’

The GuardianSunday, October 19, 2025 at 9:00:10 AM
Historic town founded by Black Colombians fleeing slavery eyes second ‘independence’
San Basilio de Palenque, known as the first free Black territory in the Americas, is gearing up for a significant referendum that could grant it its own local government. This historic village, founded by Black Colombians escaping slavery, is looking to assert its independence once more, this time from local government control. This move is not just about governance; it symbolizes a deeper quest for autonomy and recognition of its unique cultural heritage, making it a pivotal moment for the community and a potential model for other marginalized groups.
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