In December, even the Ministry of Culture, led by Álvaro Narváez, did not escape criticism from citizens and a sector of cultural managers in Medellín. The focus of the critique was the organization of the “Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas” (Parade of Myths and Legends), a traditional event through which the people of Antioquia celebrate the arrival of December. Since 1974, this event has marked the beginning of the year-end festivities and holds a significant place in the calendar of dance and theater groups in the city. Therefore, it is not surprising that some internet users expressed their dissatisfaction with the management of the event.
One of the main concerns raised by the public was the lack of transparency surrounding the selection process for participating groups. Many felt that certain influential groups received preferential treatment, while others were left out without clear justification. This led to widespread speculation about favoritism and nepotism within the Ministry of Culture, further eroding public trust in the institution.
Additionally, there were complaints about the overall organization and execution of the parade. Several participants reported last-minute changes in the route, causing confusion and disarray among the performers. Moreover, there were instances where scheduled performances were abruptly canceled, leaving the audience disappointed and questioning the reliability of the event.
The issue of funding also emerged as a point of contention. Critics argued that the Ministry of Culture should allocate more resources to support local artists and cultural initiatives, instead of diverting funds towards lavish productions that catered to a select few. Many believed that the Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas, as an event deeply rooted in the city’s cultural fabric, should serve as a platform to promote emerging talent and provide opportunities for lesser-known artists to showcase their work.
In response to these criticisms, the Ministry of Culture acknowledged the need for improvements and vowed to address the concerns raised by the public. Álvaro Narváez, the director of the Ministry, emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the selection process for future editions of the parade. He also committed to enhancing communication channels with participants and ensuring better coordination in the planning and execution of the event.
The controversy surrounding the Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas underscores the significance of cultural events as symbols of identity and community engagement. It highlights the responsibility of institutions such as the Ministry of Culture to uphold high standards of integrity and inclusivity in their endeavors. Moving forward, it is essential for the Ministry to learn from this experience and proactively work towards rebuilding public trust while nurturing a vibrant and diverse cultural scene that truly represents the aspirations of the people of Medellín.
