As the rain fell softly upon the vibrant streets of Havana, I stood there, mesmerized. Even though the sky was gray and the ocean roared, splashing over the Malecón – the world's largest sofa – and covering the sidewalk with water, the beauty of Cuba shone through. The colors of the colonial buildings, the laughter of the people, and the music that filled the air with infectious rhythms, all seemed to defy the rain. And in that moment, I couldn't help but smile, for my journey into the rich connections between Cuba and Africa had just begun.

Embracing the rain, I ventured deeper into the city, where I discovered a fascinating world that celebrated diversity, respect, humanity, and humility. Cuba's African roots run deep, with a significant portion of the population tracing their ancestry back to the African continent. These roots have given rise to a vibrant tapestry of cultures that reflects the value of diversity and unity, despite the often-troubled histories that birthed it.

The history of the Cuba-Africa connection began in the early 16th century when the Spanish colonizers brought enslaved Africans to work on plantations and in mines. Over time, these enslaved people and their descendants formed a significant part of the Cuban population. The fusion of Spanish, indigenous, and African cultures resulted in a unique and rich cultural landscape that is evident in many aspects of Cuban life today.

Music, dance, art, fashion, sports and cuisine all show the profound African influence on Cuban culture. Rhythms like rumba, son, and salsa, which are now synonymous with Cuban music, have their origins in African beats and melodies brought by the slaves. Dance forms like the Afro-Cuban rumba and the folkloric dances representing orishas, deities of the Yoruba religion, further illustrate the deep connection between Cuba and Africa.

While exploring the lively streets of Cuba, I couldn't help but notice the enthusiasm with which children and adults alike engaged in two sports in particular: boxing and soccer. These sports, which are deeply ingrained in Cuban culture, also have historical connections to Africa.

Boxing in Cuba traces its roots back to the early 20th century, when the sport gained popularity on the island. However, the African influence on Cuban boxing can be traced even further back to the traditional African martial arts and fighting styles, such as the Angolan capoeira and the Congolese lucha canaria, which were brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. These martial arts laid the foundation for the unique boxing style seen in Cuba today, characterized by agility, speed, and technical prowess. The connection to Africa, combined with Cuba's impressive Olympic boxing history, has led to a deep appreciation and passion for the sport among its people.

Soccer, on the other hand, is a sport that has enjoyed immense popularity in many African countries since the early 20th century, with its roots in British colonial influence. Although soccer is not as historically dominant in Cuba as baseball, its popularity has grown significantly over the years. The shared African heritage and the sport's accessibility have contributed to soccer's increasing prominence in Cuban culture. The sport has become a symbol of unity and camaraderie, transcending socioeconomic barriers and fostering a sense of community among those who play and support it.

The popularity of boxing and soccer in Cuba serves as yet another example of the profound cultural connections between Cuba and Africa. These sports not only provide a source of entertainment and competition but also continue to strengthen the bonds of shared history and heritage between the two regions.

The cuisine in Cuba is also heavily influenced by African ingredients and cooking techniques. Dishes like congri, a mix of rice and beans, and the use of plantains, yams, and other tropical roots are a testament to the lasting African impact on Cuban culinary culture.

Beyond music, dance, art, fashion, sports and cuisine, the connection between Cuba and Africa has had a profound impact on religion and spirituality. Santería, a syncretic religion that blends elements of the Yoruba faith with Roman Catholicism, emerged as a result of this cultural fusion. Santería continues to play a significant role in the lives of many Cubans and serves as an important link to their African heritage.

As the rain finally subsided and the sun began to peek through the clouds, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness and experience this rich cultural connection firsthand. It's a connection that continues to thrive, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and values of the past are carried forward into the present, and ultimately, the future.

In the next installment of our "Letters from Cuba" blog series, we'll delve deeper into one of the most fascinating aspects of this cultural exchange: the spiritual practice of Santería. With roots in Africa, Santería has evolved into a vibrant part of Cuban culture, and its impact can be seen in everything from rituals to jewelry. Join me as we explore the history and significance of Santería, with a special focus on the exquisite jewelry that embodies its rich heritage.

Stay tuned for our next journey into the heart of Cuba, where the spirit of Africa continues to thrive, and the bonds of humanity shine bright.