Solidarity in Saya is a documentary that tells the inspiring story of how the Afro-Bolivian community uses music as a form of resistance and empowerment. This film explores the rarely told story of how Afro-Bolivians first arrived as slaves in the Spanish colonial region that would later become Bolivia. Afro-Bolivians have faced much racial oppression throughout their history, and today many still live in conditions that have barely improved.

Despite this, their community and culture remained resilient and vibrant. A few decades ago, Afro-Bolivians sparked a social movement by forming groups that publicly performed their traditional Saya music. The performances gave their culture a new venue to reach out to a world that barely acknowledged their existence. The Saya songs are exuberant expressions of the Afro-Bolivian voices as they share the stories of their ancestors, their culture, the struggles and the joys of their lives, through, drums, song and dance.

As the Afro-Bolivians built community and solidarity through Saya groups, their movement gained visibility. The Afro-Bolivian movement has grown far beyond what started as informal music groups performing in the streets. Although they have made many incredible social and political achievements, the Afro-Bolivian people continue to reinforce their cultural presence in the long struggle for equal rights in Bolivia and for recognition around the world.

About Maya Tokunaga Jensen

Maya Tokunaga Jensen is a Chicago-area native and has a B.A. from Northwestern University in cultural anthropology.  In 2006 she traveled to Bolivia for the first time in a six-week study abroad program.  Initially going to do research for her undergraduate thesis, Maya sought an example of music as a form of resistance and empowerment.  Bolivians soon directed her to Afro-Bolivian Saya music, and what began as an undergraduate paper turned into a long-term documentary film project. Maya currently lives in Chicago and enjoys playing upright bass and cello.

This project could not have been possible without the help and support of so many people. Thank you to all.