With the Mamo’s Permission

Zarwatun Villafañe

2011

I’ve always had a sense of belonging in The Villafañes.

Mama, may I help Eufemia collect ayu?  I asked.

Yes, you may, she said after looking me in the eye; after pausing; after grabbing my hands.

I knew that only Arhuaco women collect ayu -coca leaves- for the men in the family.  Men poporean –they consume the leaves in their own ritualistic manner.

Weeks later, I learned that you need a special permission from the Mamos to harvest the sacred plant.  You need their blessing.

When I left la Sierra, I understood why Mama allowed me to work alongside Eufemia, her great-niece, in the coca field. 

Tati Calixto, you are my oldest daughter.

Did a Mamo, through divination, tell her I am?

Zarwatun’s Bridge: The Arhuaco Photo Exhibit  |  Ann Arbor, Michigan  |  Contact:  tcalixto@umich.edu

2011–2014