Tell the story of the people of Palenque and their struggle against slavery.

Hi, my name is Renée Diop, I’m fifteen years old and currently live in Fremont, CA, where I debate and write short stories. As an African American girl growing up in the midwest, later moving to California, I’ve never been exposed to the deep-rooted culture and heritage attached to my ethnicity. I’ve never been to a place that has historical significance that has truly compelled me. Learning about Cinnamongirl, I realized that the world has many niches, places in it that have more significance to my culture than any place I’ve ever visited. Knowing this sparked a want in me to explore, to discover, and most importantly, to find a place that has true meaning to me.

If I’m able to travel to Cartagena, Colombia, I’ll have the opportunity to gather information on the history and people of San Basilio de Palenque. The people of Palenque were the very first to defy the imposed norms of slavery and colonization by the Spainiard conquistadors, or conquerors. They fought the powerful empire and were founded on the basis of freedom for all, not freedom for those of higher social status.

This story captivated me, and showed me that even in a small town, against an empire and an army, people can preserve their rights and stay true to themselves. But being simply captivated by a story doesn’t compare to being on the land, tasting the rich cuisine, hearing the colorful dialect, feeling the thump of the beat of drums. The soul, the culture, and the history is rare to find in just one city, and having the chance to experience it in my lifetime would be a blessing.

I wouldn’t just experience Palenque; I would document my findings and share it with the world. I found out about the town by reading, and want to spread it’s beauty with others by writing, to encourage more young people like myself to seek out whatever adventure peaks their interest. If I have the opportunity to go to Colombia, I can pass the torch to other girls who might read my articles on the town, and give anyone who dares a chance to learn more about themselves and their people.

Please support me in passing that torch, in seeking that adventure. Not only to discover a new part of myself, but for anyone who might stumble upon an opportunity like this to do the same. Pay it forward, share the story of the people of Palenque. Any donation, big or small, helps me get one step closer to achieving that goal, and paving a path for anyone with a longing for a part of themselves they didn’t know they had. In order to make my trip, I’ll need to raise 4,500 dollars on my own. Please extend any help you can, and share this so that I might accomplish this goal.

Yours,

Renée Diop.

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Just a small donation will go a long way to helping me meet my goal for CINNAMONGIRL INC