Years of Defiance and Pride: Montenegrin Diaspora in South America Gets Exhibition in Spanish!
Did you know that in faraway South America, specifically in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, there are seven Montenegrin communities that have been preserving their identity and tradition for decades? Yes, you read that right! And now, after years of neglect, Matica crnogorska has finally decided to give them something that will help them better connect with their history, culture, and pride – an exhibition in Spanish!
What was done?
Matica crnogorska prepared and adapted exhibition panels and accompanying catalogs in Spanish, specifically for these communities. A total of seven communities across three South American countries – five in Argentina, one in Uruguay, and one in Paraguay – will receive these panels, which will remain their property and be used during national holidays and cultural events.
The exhibition covers three segments: the history of Montenegrin Cyrillic printing from the 15th and 16th centuries, an exhibition titled “July 13 – Years of Defiance and Pride,” and a display of Montenegrin male and female national costumes. All of this is accompanied by a catalog with texts translated into Spanish, which is a huge step towards preserving and promoting Montenegrin identity in this part of the world.
Why is this important?
Imagine how hard it is to be far from your homeland, in a country where a different language is spoken, and still manage to preserve your identity, tradition, and culture. These communities have defied oblivion and assimilation for decades. Matica crnogorska recognized their need and financed the entire project, while the Montenegrin embassy in Argentina helped distribute the materials.
This is not just an exhibition – it’s a message that Montenegro does not forget its people, no matter where they are. It’s an act of pride and defiance, sending a clear message: our history and culture live and breathe even on the other side of the world.
Who is behind the project?
The author team includes historians, professors, and experts from Matica crnogorska and the University of Montenegro, including Božidar Šekularac, Ivan Ivanović, Suzana Pajopvić, and others. The texts were translated into Spanish by Dragana Otašević, an expert in migration and multiculturalism.
What’s next?
Matica crnogorska plans to expand this program next year to other communities in South America. So, this is just the beginning of a big story about preserving Montenegrin identity worldwide.
Conclusion
If you thought the Montenegrin diaspora was just a number in statistics, think again. These communities are living proof that culture and tradition can be preserved even in the toughest conditions. And now, with this exhibition, their story will be available to new generations, in a language they understand – Spanish.
So, what do you think? Is this proof that the true fight for identity and pride never dies? Or maybe it’s time for other diasporas to get this kind of attention? Share your thoughts, maybe you have an interesting story about your community somewhere far from home!
Slug: years-of-defiance-and-pride-montenegrin-diaspora-south-america
