Mayaya Rising: Black Female Icons in Latin American and Caribbean Literature and Culture

Mayaya Rising explores and celebrates the work of writers who intentionally center powerful female cultural archetypes, such as Teodora and Micaela Ginés, Aida Cartagena Portalatins epic poem Yania tierra, Miss Lizzie, and the palenqueras of Cartagena, Colombia. Duke proposes three case studies and a womanist methodology to study and rediscover these figures, restoring and repairing the scholarly record.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Who are the Black heroines of Latin America and the Caribbean? Where do we turn for models of transcendence among women of African ancestry in the region? In response to the historical dearth of such exemplars, Mayaya Rising explores and celebrates the work of writers who intentionally center powerful female cultural archetypes. In this inventive analysis, Duke proposes three case studies and a corresponding womanist methodology through which to study and rediscover these figures. The musical Cuban-Dominican sisters and former slaves Teodora and Micaela Ginés inspired Aida Cartagena Portalatins epic poem Yania tierra; the Nicaraguan matriarch of the May Pole, "Miss Lizzie," figures prominently in four anthologies from the countrys Bluefields region; and the iconic palenqueras of Cartagena, Colombia are magnified in the work of poets María Teresa Ramírez Neiva and Mirian Díaz Pérez. In elevating these figures and foregrounding these works, Duke restores and repairs the scholarly record.

Introduction:
Latin America and the Caribbean have a rich history of Black heroines who have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond. These women have faced numerous challenges and obstacles, yet they have persevered and emerged as powerful figures of inspiration and resilience. In this essay, we will explore the lives and legacies of some of these Black heroines, highlighting their achievements and the lessons they can teach us about perseverance and empowerment.
Teodora and Micaela Ginés:
The Ginés sisters were musical prodigies who rose to fame in the late 19th century in Cuba. Born into slavery, they were separated at a young age but managed to reunite and pursue their passion for music. Despite facing discrimination and adversity, the sisters became renowned musicians and composers, known for their beautiful melodies and powerful lyrics. Teodora Ginés was particularly known for her compositions, which often addressed social and political issues, such as slavery and freedom. Micaela Ginés, on the other hand, was a talented pianist and singer who played a key role in promoting Cuban music abroad.
Aida Cartagena Portalatins:
Aida Cartagena Portalatins is a Nicaraguan poet and writer who is known for her epic poem "Yania tierra." The poem tells the story of a woman who rises from poverty and oppression to become a powerful leader and advocate for social justice. Cartagena Portalatins was born into a poor family and faced numerous challenges throughout her life, including discrimination and poverty. However, she refused to let these obstacles define her and used her writing to inspire and empower others.
Miss Lizzie:
"Miss Lizzie" is a nickname given to the Nicaraguan matriarch of the May Pole, a traditional dance that is celebrated in the country's Bluefields region. The matriarch is known for her leadership and dedication to preserving the traditional dance and culture of her community. She has been featured in several anthologies and has been recognized for her contributions to the preservation of Nicaraguan heritage.
Palenqueras:
The palenqueras are a group of women who are traditionally known for their skilled dancing and drumming in Cartagena, Colombia. These women have faced numerous challenges, including discrimination and poverty, but they have used their talents to become powerful figures in their communities. The palenqueras have been featured in several documentaries and films, and their performances have been celebrated for their beauty and grace.
Conclusion:
The Black heroines of Latin America and the Caribbean have left a lasting legacy of resilience, strength, and empowerment. These women have faced numerous challenges and obstacles, yet they have persevered and emerged as powerful figures of inspiration and change. Their stories remind us that we can overcome any obstacle with hard work, determination, and a commitment to social justice. As we continue to celebrate and honor these women, we must also work to create a more inclusive and equitable society that recognizes the contributions of all women, regardless of their race or ethnicity.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781684484386