It was a humbling day in Comuna 13, the most dangerous neighborhood in Medellin, Colombia a decade ago. Initially controlled by guerrillas and then gangs, there was a point when 20, 30, to 40 people were killed daily in Comuna 13. However, today is a different day as foreigners are invited to revel in the neighborhood’s renowned artistry, street dancers, and entertainment by Colombian rappers.
Comparable to Brazil’s favelas, dwellings consist of shacks stacked upon each other along the mountainside as residents climb lengthy stairs (or the new escalator) to get in and out. Although the breakdancing was fascinating and the art murals were imaginative, I spent most of my time with the various groups of Spanish rappers whose wordplay and flow were on another level. Yep, I even took the mic for a few freestyle verses. I was a little rusty, but the energy from my Colombian hermanos was empowering. Experience life, people!
