Colombian culture says goodbye to one of its most emblematic figures: Leonor González Mina, known as ‘La Negra Grande de Colombia’, who died at the age of 90 in Cali.
his departure closes a golden chapter of music and art, leaving a legacy that transcends generations.
Born in 1934 in Robles, a town in the municipality of Jamundí, Valle del Cauca, González Mina emerged as an icon of Afro-Colombian music. From a young age, her powerful voice and overwhelming energy led her to be part of the Delia Zapata Olivella Folkloric Ballet, where she began to stand out as a singer and dancer, embracing rhythms that would be the basis of her career: currulao, cumbia and bambuco.
A career of milestones and transformations
In 1967, she broke barriers by becoming the first Afro-Colombian woman to sing at the Teatro Colón in Bogotá.a past event that made Afro roots visible on the most prestigious stages in the country. With his unique style, he popularized songs that would become anthems, such as “yo me llama cumbia”, “El Pescador” and “Cali pachanguero”.
His legacy not only lies in his more than 30 recorded albums, but in his ability to turn music into a vehicle of cultural resistance. and black pride. It was a voice that celebrated the roots of the Colombian Pacific and a bridge to bring them to the world.
Beyond music, González Mina also left his mark on politics. From Congress, he worked for the rights of Afro-Colombian communities, defending equality and promoting policies that valued customary cultures.
In the words of her contemporaries, she was more than an artist: she was an ambassador of Afro-Colombian identity, a fighter and a visionary.
Leonor González Mina died in a nursing home in Cali, but her spirit remains in every note of the rhythms she performed.
What were the major influences of Leonor gonzález Mina on Afro-Colombian music adn identity?
Interview with Dr. Sofia Castillo: Expert in Afro-Colombian Cultural History on the Legacy of Leonor González Mina
By Time.news Editor
As colombia mourns the loss of Leonor gonzález mina, known as ‘la Negra Grande de Colombia,’ we sit down with dr. Sofia Castillo, a leading expert in Afro-Colombian cultural history, to discuss the profound impact of this iconic figure on music, culture, and social justice.
Q: Dr. Castillo, Leonor González Mina’s passing marks the end of an era in Colombian music. How would you describe her impact on Colombian culture?
A: Leonor González Mina was not just a musical figure; she was a cultural beacon for afro-Colombians. Her powerful voice and vibrant performances introduced audiences to the rich traditions of currulao, cumbia, and bambuco. By breaking barriers in 1967, becoming the first Afro-Colombian woman to sing at Bogotá’s Teatro Colón, she paved the way for future generations of artists. Her music served as a vehicle of resistance and cultural pride, celebrating the depth of our Afro-Colombian roots.
Q: Can you elaborate on how her music contributed to cultural resistance?
A: Certainly! González mina’s songs like “yo me llama cumbia,” “El Pescador,” and “Cali pachanguero” became anthems that resonated deeply with the Afro-colombian community. They celebrated our unique heritage, affirming identity and pride in a society that frequently enough marginalized these narratives. Through her music, she elevated Afro-colombian culture to prestigious stages, challenging stereotypes and promoting a broader understanding of our collective identity.
Q: Beyond her musical achievements, how did González Mina influence politics and social issues?
A: gonzález Mina was a true advocate for Afro-colombian rights within the political sphere. Serving in Congress, she actively defended the rights of Afro-Colombian communities, emphasizing the need for equality and the recognition of customary cultures. Her commitment to social justice showcased that she was more than an artist; she was a visionary leader who fought for systemic change.
Q: What can today’s artists learn from González Mina’s legacy?
A: Today’s artists can take inspiration from how Leónor seamlessly merged artistry with advocacy. It is crucial for artists to understand their role not only as entertainers but also as bearers of cultural narratives. Engaging in social issues and using art as a means for change can amplify voices that are often unheard. Her legacy teaches us the importance of authenticity, resilience, and cultural pride.
Q: As we reflect on her life, what do you believe is the most meaningful aspect of her legacy for future generations?
A: The most significant aspect of her legacy is the empowerment of Afro-Colombian identity. She showed us that our stories,our music,and our culture are worthy of celebration and respect on national and international platforms. Future generations should carry forward her spirit of cultural resistance and pride, ensuring that Afro-Colombian contributions to art and society continue to shine brightly.
Q: In closing, how should we commemorate her contributions as a society?
A: To honor Leónor González Mina, I urge everyone to explore Afro-Colombian music and culture actively. We must support and promote artists who follow in her footsteps and create spaces for Afro-Colombian stories to be told. Educational programs that focus on the history of Afro-Colombians and their contributions to Colombia can definitely help cultivate a more inclusive society that appreciates the richness of our diverse cultural tapestry.
Conclusion: Leonor González mina’s departure leaves a void, but her voice and influence will echo through generations. As we celebrate her life and legacy, it is essential to continue the conversation about Afro-Colombian culture and advocate for the recognition it deserves.