For my last two weeks of classes in Cusco, I was moved up to a higher level and have begun a new textbook titled “Conversación y Controversia”. These classes have allowed me to practice my conversation skills at a more in-depth level with my teachers and peers, while learning new vocabulary surrounding controversial topics. With my teacher Rocio, we have read articles and discussed topics like abortion, marriage, atheism, and immigration in the United States. At the root of all of these conversations are cultural differences–it is incredibly interesting to listen to her point of view, and I enjoy sharing what the differing opinions in the US are surrounding these topics.
During my six weeks in the city, it has become clear to me that nearly every Cusqueño identifies as Catholic, even if they are not practicing. When discussing abortion, Rocio was clear on her Catholic views and was shocked to learn that abortion is legal in the US, since it is illegal in Peru. She shared with me a few sad stories of illegal operations, and we discussed the pros and cons of the difference in laws between Peru and the US. When discussing atheism, I learned from Rocio that public schools in Cusco essentially act as a Catholic school would in the US–students attend mass and daily religion classes. We discussed how the histories of the colonization of both Peru and US has caused a difference in the separation between church and state. The US is a mixing pot of cultures and identities, while nearly all of Peru shares a religion. Catholic holidays are celebrated as national holidays here, and Rocio does not know any atheists.
Immigration has been an ongoing topic since I’ve arrived. All of my teachers have been quick to mention Trump and his policies, and it has been difficult for me to address questions about immigration laws and opinions in the US, because it seems they are constantly changing and there is never a simple solution. Rocio ran through a list of immigration scenarios with me, and it is my homework to determine what is considered “legal” and “illegal” by our current system. Though there are not many Peruvians attempting to migrate to the US in this moment, Cusqueños seem concerned for the well-being of Central Americans attempting to immigrate.
Despite this, attitudes towards Venezuelan immigrants in Cusco are completely different. Venezuela has been facing an economic and political crisis for years, and 10% of its citizens have left the country, many arriving in Peru. From talking with locals, I have noticed negative and generalized attitudes towards Venezuelans that, at times, mirror attitudes towards Latino immigrants in the US. One of my teachers is quick to point out Venezuelans in the street, citing a clear difference in looks and character than Cusqueños, and a host parent has claimed that Venezuelans “rob and kill people” (though so do Peruvians, I’m sure). One of my teachers is Venezuelan and immigrated to Peru a year ago. He has opened up to me about some of the blatant racism he’s experienced and how difficult the transition has been. For example, his brother was denied a waiter position after the restaurant learned of his nationality. At times, it’s been difficult for me to grapple with this contradiction–Cusqueños do not understand harsh immigration laws in the US, but they also can express disdain for immigrants in their own country. Of course, I acknowledge that I don’t understand the situation fully and it is impossible for me to judge the situation without more context and information.
My opinions aside, my classes with the “Conversación y Controversia” textbook have been nothing short of fascinating. I feel as though I have learned so much in past week alone about Peruvian culture, and to do so in Spanish makes the process all the better. Politics, Catholicism, and morals weave in and out of my conversations, and I can’t wait to discuss these topics further in the future.