Eight Spider student-athletes from the University of Richmond recently wrapped up a week-long journey in Chile as part of the EnCompass Program. The final day was a mix of reflection and new experiences.
The day started early. Breakfast was delicious, as usual, and we hit the road. On our bus ride, we noticed a building on fire, surrounded by volunteer firefighters. It’s a reminder that in Chile, fire service is voluntary, and firefighters provide their own equipment.
Our first stop was Santiago’s oldest church, built in 1592 by Franciscan monks. It has stood the test of time without major renovations, showcasing strong architecture that speaks to its historical significance.
Next, we visited Londres 38, a former secret detention center during Chile’s dictatorship. This building held around 2,000 prisoners, many of whom were young and innocent. Felipe, our guide, shared powerful stories. People were tortured here, and the organization behind it tried to hide the atrocities by playing loud music to drown out cries. Outside the building, a memorial displays the names of those who suffered, allowing us to remember and honor them.
After this heavy visit, we headed to La Pintana Community Center. We met Nkulama, a sociologist from Haiti, who taught us about immigration in Chile. There are nearly 1.9 million immigrants in the country, facing challenges like long wait times for citizenship, language barriers, and discrimination. Nkulama highlighted the need for better support networks and initiatives, making La Pintana a model community for immigrants.
We then enjoyed a delicious lunch, featuring grilled salmon and various local dishes. It was great to experience the diverse cultures represented in La Pintana.
As the day came to a close, we visited Barrio Italia, a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops and cafes. We capped off our adventure with ice cream on a beautiful day.
Reflecting on the week, many of us felt we had transformed from acquaintances to a tight-knit family. This experience broadened our perspectives and will stay with us for years to come.
Special thanks to everyone who made this trip possible. It was not just an adventure; it was life-changing.
Tramayne Bullock
Football
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