We were all divided up into pairs and then divvied out to different host families that came afar from neighboring communities. I was placed with my particular host family because they were going to attend a traditional indigenous wedding that lasted 2 days.
Hence, I went to a wedding up on top of the mountain at the couple’s newly built house in the middle of rural corn fields that had a spectacular view of the valley and mountains. The first day of the wedding is for celebrating, dancing, eating and drinking. There was a live Andean band and we marched around in a circle in their traditional steps and celebrated with everyone.
Our homestay family´s house was very beautiful and old. Our host father is an extremely important figure in the Indigenous movement. He started the Organization of Kichwa indigenous of Cotacachi in the 70s. He has been the president of not only this Organization, but also the National Bilingual Education Association. He has traveled to almost every country in the Americas, along with France and some Asian countries. Thus, he shared with us his experience as an indigenous leader in Ecuador and how he has represented his country around the world.
The next day we went back to the wedding and we participated in the ceremony that lasted all day. Wow…. It was amazing and it was a privilege to observe their customs and traditions. Wow…. So beautiful. They ate CUI, guinea pig, and drank CHICHA, fermented corn, but I politely said “no gracias “with a smile. Wow…. Wow!
All of the students had unique experiences with their host families and many of us made quick connections. It is amazing how we learn to communicate and form friendships that we will always remember. What a cultural exchange!
Wow.
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