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Introducing: John Jairo Alvarez-Castano

The Colorful History of Colombia

Experiencia/Experience
Estudios/Education
Premios/Awards

I would like to introduce Mr. John Jairo Alverez-Constano. I met John through my fiance' on a trip to Cali, Colombia. I knew NOTHING of Colombia except the stereotypical things: drugs, guerillas and chaos. My trip to Cali was very pleasant and I have returned since my first outing. But the interesting thing to me about Colombia is how SIMILAR the history is to the United States. In a world where one would thing hatred and prejudices are declining, there are some things that have not changed. John captures this in his work.

As a photographer he has taken years of photographs that represent the Black in Colombia. The most touching picture is that of a Black man standing on a chain that almost looks like he has shackles on his feet. At the same time, John displays the variety of colors of Black people in Colombia and expresses them ALL as beautiful. This is a task that has yet to be completed in the United States.

Complementing his photographs are documentaries. The documentary "150 Years After the Abolition of Slavery" is extraordinarily moving. The parallels to the Colombia society and that of the United States are eye-opening. And I personal feel worthy of an Oscar Award.

I have attempted to capture his work on a webpage. But this website does not offer REAL justice to the vibrant colors and life of his photos. While I am apologizing, let me also say that I made this webpage. I speak very little Spanish, so any accent marks that are missing OR out of place please credit to my head and not to my heart.

For any one interested in John lecturing or presenting his work, I would STRONGLY recommend it. It would be a learning experience for any one of any race and age.

Jennifer A. Jenkins Ph.D.

Most of us can, if we choose, make this world either a prison or a palace -Lord Avebury


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