Black History Shadows and Lights

Overview

Step back more than 500 years in time and explore the rich — and often overlooked — history of African ancestry in Panama. This journey unfolds through two defining chapters: the colonial era, marked by the harsh realities of slavery but also powerful acts of resistance, and the West Indian migrations — a period of hard labor, resilience, and cultural legacy that helped shape Panama’s identity. • Our walk begins in Casco Antiguo, moving beyond the former walls that once divided the elite from the working-class communities of Santa Ana. • We’ll continue along Central Avenue, a vibrant area full of stories, movement, and local life. • Our final stop is the Afro-Antillean Museum, where we’ll explore the lives, labor, and contributions of West Indian migrants who helped build the nation. This experience invites you to discover, understand, and honor the shadows and lights that continue to shape Afro-Panamanian heritage.