Masks With A Purpose
I recently ordered two Mola masks from my friend Victor back home in Panama. If you are not familiar with Molas, they are the traditional fabric panels that have colorful geometric designs. This fabric is hand made by the Guna people and is used for the Guna women’s traditional outfits.
Who is Victor?
A few years ago I met Victor Peretz in Plaza Herrera, Casco Viejo, Panama City. Victor is a local tour guide in the Casco Viejo and Chorrillo neighborhoods of Panama City, Panama. We chatted for a bit and exchanged social media info. Over the next year, we stayed in touch, and I told him that when I returned to Panama, I’d be interested in going on one of his walking tours of El Chorrillo. So earlier this year, before the shit hit the global fan, I linked up with him and went on one of his Local In PTY Walking Tours. Honestly, it’s an experience, not a walking tour! Make sure you check out the vlog I made about this experience.
Victor is a Guna (Indigenous people Panama) and he not only goes above and beyond to help the kids of the Chorillo community, but he also does a lot to help his people. It has definitely been a difficult time for the entire world during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the people of Guna Yala are not the exception.
Victor shipping out my masks to supporters in the U.S. and in Canada.
A different design (Photo Courtesy: Victor Peretz)
Victor’s community is currently selling hand-sewn Mola masks. Each mask is beautifully detailed and hand-stitched by the Guna Women of San Blas. They have various designs to select from. I happen to like the Black Lives Matter design so I ordered those, but there are plenty to select from.
Victor has informed me that these will help provide families with income and food during the Pandemic. 100% of the money from sales pays the Guna women, as well as buys food bags for other families in need.
If you are interested in supporting this cause, please contact Victor Peretz for more information on the designs and pricing available.
WhatsApp +507 6118-7621
