I carry hope for Argentina, its people
As one embarks on extended air travel across great distances, the phenomenon of jet lag results in an array of symptoms such as sleep deprivation, fatigue, unwelcome insomnia and crankiness, among others. Yet in our fast-paced era of air travel, an intriguing concept arises: the idea of “soul delay.” This notion hints that despite our bodies’ zippy travels, our inner selves, our souls, struggle to keep pace.
As I bid farewell to Argentina, my own soul delay results in an aching heart and a somber appreciation for its captivating culture and storied history. The vibrant tapestry woven by its people, the soul-stirring rhythms of tango, and the resolve reverberating within its people are undeniably poignant. Yet my departure is tinged with sadness for Argentina as I reflect on the familiar chord of radical right-wing ideology growing in the U.S. in recent years.
Argentina stands at a crossroads, grappling with 70 years of unsuccessful Peronism and the implications of new leadership veering toward extremism. The shadows of current policymaking evoke fears, stirring echoes of a troubled past that linger in the memories of argentinos, witnesses to its darkest periods under dictatorial rule. For survivors of this terror, like my former “casera” and dear friend, Dr. Beatriz Vitar Muksdi, the scars of oppression and the struggle for justice are not easily forgotten.
On the streets of Buenos Aires, graffiti exudes powerful messages like “dijimos nunca jamas” (we said never again), while scraps of fliers demanding “afuera Milei” (out with Milei) are scattered about the Plaza de Mayo. It is here during the state terrorism of the late 1970s where mothers, grandmothers and sisters of over 20,000 disappeared, tortured, and murdered civilians and militant students vehemently protested.
The city’s main avenues showcase mosaic memorials lining the sidewalks where loved ones were last seen alive — indelible markers of a terror deemed crucial to remain vivid in the collective memories of Argentines. In an era where numerous states in our country aim to bury and erase their own uncomfortable truths, this evidence deeply resonates with me.
A mere 30 miles from Buenos Aires, Uruguay experienced similar periods of military dictatorship in its history. While Uruguay has experienced relatively better economic performance compared to Argentina, both countries have faced challenges and fluctuations influenced by global economic conditions, regional dynamics, and internal factors unique to each nation.
Given these issues and the near absence of local exchange restrictions in Argentina, I was surprised to face the disdain of an elitist Uruguayan clerk who outright refused my Argentinian pesos for an insignificant souvenir shot glass, deeming them inferior due to Argentina’s “shocked” economy. This action conveyed a stark “business is business” attitude, yet it carried a hurtful undertone reflecting resentment toward a struggling neighbor.
I frequently encounter the notion that I tend to shoulder everyone’s burdens, but I do believe that knowledge of history has the power to compel individuals to understand concepts such as international solidarity and to illustrate the significance of standing by weaker countries. Historical instances of imperialism and exploitation have served as cautionary tales, emphasizing the moral necessity and ethical obligation to support and show compassion toward troubled states. Adhering to the fundamental tenet of “loving thy neighbor” requires transcending borders to achieve a comprehensive understanding of diverse perspectives.
Exploring Argentina’s history over the past three weeks has been a haunting reminder of the fragility of democracy and our responsibility to support our own Latin American neighbor, recognizing the significance of embracing our closest ally in the region. Yet, in the face of its disquieting reality, there remains a glimmer of hope. History teaches us resilience. It teaches us that the spirit of a people, forged in the crucible of adversity, possesses the strength to withstand and overcome.
These are the sentiments of soul delay catching up with me, and I carry this hope for Argentina — a hope that its people will unite to uphold their liberties and steer toward a future anchored in justice and democratic values, where its rich culture and history ring in unison with the pursuit of a just and equitable society.
Hasta pronto, Argentina. Que la unidad y la esperanza guíen tu camino hacia un futuro más brillante.