Positive Coping mechanisms through dance

It’s no secret that Bomba is my first love. Bomba got me through some of the toughest moments of my life such as heartbreaks, failed relationships, death of close family members, stress from academia, anxiety, etc. Bomba was used as my fuel and source to relieve all pain and let it out on the dance floor. Dancing is my stress reliever, however, Bomba is a way of life! When everything else had failed, Bomba has always been there. For that, I am grateful. Recuerda, Bomba, Medicina para mi Alma demonstrated the significance of this artistry in my life. Bomba is not just an art, it’s a movement that carries the heart of our Puerto Rican people. When you hear the sound of the barriles, healing takes place. Do not underestimate the power of the drums! There is a communication that takes place between the lead drummer (primo) and the dancer. The dancer dictates the rhythm as Bomba cures the body and ignites the soul!

Me Cure, me cure, con la Bomba me cure.

Bomba is a historical and percussion driven dance that dates back to the 17th century. These Afro-Puerto Rican spiritual and political expressions were brought forth by our ancestors. Therefore, when we dance Bomba, we are giving respect to our elders who have paved the way toward our freedom. Today, Bomba is STILL used to fight against the colonial consequences of slavery. After the detrimental effects of Hurricane Maria, several Bomba groups in Puerto Rico use this music as a driving force to continue fighting for freedom. Although the United States did not help the beautiful island when our people needed the most assistance, Puerto Ricans got to work and started rebuilding. It was a cry for help and the United States did not respond to the cries of our people. More than 4,000 lives were lost. Let that sink in.

Today, we celebrate life and we fight through the rhythm of the drums. This week, I attended my first Bomplenazo in New York City. I literally cried when I saw the unity and respect that Puerto Rican communities have for their history, ancestors, and loved one’s. BOMBA is a coping mechanism that will continue to be the driving force of our people’s freedom. The fight continues and it is not over. Puerto Rico se levanta! What an amazing time NYC was. We were celebrating with Puerto Ricans from all over the place including East Coast, Midwest, and Puerto Rico¡Todos juntos celebrando nuestra cultura!

Roberto Cepeda:

Bomba changed my life and continues to mold me into the woman I am today. This past weekend, I had the honor and privilege of meeting a Bomba legend whose familia and lineage paved the way towards our freedom. Workshops were held by Roberto Cepeda & his wife Gloria Cepeda. Roberto is a pioneer, master folklorist and legend in the Bomba Community. Through his infinite wisdom and experience, the history of Bomba and influence of the African diaspora in the Caribbean was demonstrated through storytelling, musica and dance. He is so humble and sweet! The Cepeda family created a solid platform of hope in my heart & passion for continuing this tradition forever. My AfriCaribe family and I had an amazing dinner with the Cepedas as they said their last goodbyes. It was very clear that it was not a goodbye, but a “see you later.”