LAII Trip to Cuba Explores Religious Diversity

May 19, 2014

In 2013, the Latin American & Iberian Institute (LAII) was thrilled to announce it had received a People-to-People license which allowed for community members to participate in educational trips to Cuba. Since then, the LAII has offered community members a range of focused itineraries to help them explore Cuba and meet its citizens. In February, 2015, we turn our attention to the religious diversity in Cuba.

From February 7-14, 2015, the LAII will lead community members into the field to learn about religious diversity in Cuba. Join us on a unique non-denominational tour of Cuba. This 7-day trip will feature discussions with religious leaders and students, and visits to cemeteries, churches, and seminaries. We'll meet with Catholics, Jews, Protestants, Santeros and others, learning about the history and evolution of religion on the island. We'll visit the Yoruba Cultural Center, the Afro-Cuban museum, a housing project and community organizations in and around Havana. We'll also experience the beautiful architecture of Old Havana. The trip is open to anyone regardless of their religious background or affiliation.

The tour will be led by UNM Professor Emeritus Dr. Nelson Valdés, well-known Cuban scholar, who led many trips to Cuba between 1980 and 2004, and who is well acquainted with the island.

For more information, download the Religious Diversity in Cuba flyer and information sheet. For questions or comments, please contact either Robyn Côté (rcote@unm.edu), Carlos Navarro (navarroc@unm.edu), or Vickie Nelson (vnelson@unm.edu), or call (505) 277-2961.

Information sessions will be held on Monday, September 22, 2014 at 6:00 p.m., and on Monday, October 20, 2104 at 6:00 pm. Both sessions will be held at the Latin American and Iberian Institute, 801 Yale NE.