On October 26, students from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) showcased the powerful interplay between education and activism by attending a concert by famed artist Residente at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles. This event was linked to their course titled “Bad Bunny and Resistance in Puerto Rico,” taught by Vanessa Díaz, an associate professor of Chicana/o and Latina/or studies. The course offers a deep examination of music as a lens through which to understand political and social identities, particularly in the context of Puerto Rican history and resistance.
Professor Díaz emphasized that the course extends beyond the influence of Bad Bunny, focusing instead on the broader theme of Puerto Rico’s enduring resistance to U.S. colonialism. “When our students experience the material they’re learning about in real life, it completely transforms the educational experience,” she noted. Through concerts like these, students gain real-world insights into the artists they study and the political actions they inspire.
The students began their study of Residente’s music early in the semester, delving into historical moments that have shaped Puerto Rico’s identity, including the 2019 protests that called for the resignation of then-Governor Ricardo Rosselló. A particular focus was given to the song “Afilando los Cuchillos,” which served as a rallying cry during these protests. They engaged with podcasts and lyric analyses, ultimately fostering a nuanced understanding of the social movements that Residente represents.
Prior to the concert, students also discussed pertinent social issues such as race, gender, and sexuality within reggaetón music, underlining Residente’s support for LGBTQ+ rights, which resonated throughout his performance.
For students like Anna McDonnell, experiencing the concert was transformative; it allowed them to perceive music as both an art form and a platform for activism. “His performance transcends mere words; it was a powerful art piece,” she shared, illustrating the profound impact of the concert experience.
The course highlights the idea that music serves as a formidable method of resistance, encouraging students to contemplate innovative ways of addressing social injustice. As Sydney Díaz pointed out, the resonance between Residente’s music and the audience’s energy exemplified how art can unite people in common causes.
Moreover, the concert came at a significant time politically for Puerto Rico, as the independence movement gains traction. Residente and Bad Bunny’s support for independence candidate José Luis Dalmau reflects a growing willingness among Puerto Ricans to engage with these critical issues, marking a notable shift in discourse around identity and rights.
In the end, students reported lasting impressions from the concert that will inform their understanding of music and social change for years to come. Professor Díaz expressed pride in her students for their ability to bridge classroom knowledge with active engagement in societal matters. Thanks to partnerships with initiatives like the LA Rams, these educational opportunities enrich the students’ real-world experiences, emphasizing the invaluable connection between theory and practice.
This experience illustrates a hopeful narrative: the growing awareness and mobilization around social justice issues through music and education can empower future generations to become engaged and informed citizens who can advocate for change within their communities.