Not new, but a constant in Cotacachi is the feeling of celebration, particularly among teh indigenous people. I feel so lucky and so blessed to have my business located in the center of town, and therefore being able to witness so many celebrations that happen frequently and often originate on the steps of the cathedral La Matriz, facing the main square of the town.
I do not know what the particular occasion was for this parade, but it was beautiful to see the people in their traditional dress walking in the bright sunlit street bordering the park. The featured photo shows men walking along Garcia Moreno street towards the Municipal building on the opposite side of the park from the cathedral.
I find the white pants and blue ponchos so striking, and love the visual impact, but even more striking to me is the feeling of unity that I believe is a part of being part of a centuries-old way of living that still works today.
I agree, Julie! It would be hard to imagine that anyone living in Ecuador would not appreciate the tribes surrounding Cotacachi. How many people of the world have a simple belief system that demands each of them Not Lie, Not Steal and Work Hard…? I love your participatory government, too. First in Ecuador…perhaps the world. Now it is regarded as a model way to serve your town and all who live there.