"Long Live the Mariposas"

The second week brought new beginnings as we started our service work at the children's recreational center of Barrio Rafey. This group of “caterpillars” were a bit younger but full of energy and eagerness to meet us. Not only did we dance but we connected via fast-paced sports this time to give them an outlet for their energy. They were most interested in basketball and soccer, which several of our youth mentors had experience with in America. Some students wanted only to be held or have a piggy-back ride which also aligned with some of our students. We recognised later in Service Seminar that our challenges/barriers were minimized as we found new ways to connect with the various needs of the children. 

As we have been becoming closer as a group, it has aided in our division of labor when approaching “callejera” youth groups. The students trust us because they can sense that we share trust amongst ourselves. We are building a “cocoon” of vulnerability in our group that is preparing us to emerge as butterflies by the end of the trip. Luckily our students have the privilege and support to reach their full potential, which wasn’t the case with the Mirabal Sisters.

On Tuesday evening we watched a film called “In the Time of the Butterflies” which illustrated the plight of the Mirabal Sisters in their efforts to diminish the harsh dictatorial rule of Rafael Trujillo. “The Mariposas” or Mirabal sisters couldn’t escape the torture of Trujillo and even their loved ones paid the price. Sadly this story ended in them being beaten to death because they were making such an impact on the Dominican Republic’s society.

Visiting Mirabal sisters' home the next day came with its share of sadness. We could feel their presence and prosperity as we walked through their home. But the landscape showed that even in their demise, their spirit still lives in the land. Butterflies were a symbol of hope and they were plentiful in their garden. “Long live the Mariposas.”

Kokayi & Sheila