Remember We
Throughout the Vos del Sur program, we studied the complex history between Central America and the U.S. South. While I was aware of the connection, my eyes and mind were opened to just how deep the relationship goes. I am very grateful for all the things I learned in this class and even more grateful for the opportunity to exemplify these connections with my little island paradise, Roatán.
When I first thought about what I wanted to do for a project, I knew it had to feature the history and beauty of my home island. I made this diorama in an effort to highlight the landscape and history of Roatán and the Bay Islands of Honduras. The lush greenery and clearest waters are unmatched anywhere in the world and this was my attempt to memorialize and share my home island.
Accompanying the diorama is a short poem, “Remember We,” recited in the Roatán Patois, a mix of English and Spanish with a distinct Roatnean’ flavor. I hope to invoke the sentiment of a present-day islander honoring the history of the island and its many inhabitants over the years. Please enjoy!
Joseph (Joe) Coleman is an information technology specialist working in the data science and analytics space. In addition to advocating for ethical uses of data and technology, Joe is a burgeoning community leader with experience in greenspace organizing. He is an Afro-Indigenous immigrant from Honduras with long-standing roots in Roatán, Bay Islands. Through the Vos Del Sur program and others like it, Joe hopes to encourage reflection and conversation regarding the deep connection between Central America and the U.S. South.