Yesterday, at Espacio La Misti, the long-awaited premiere of the documentary took place «Neighborhood School/Paraguay», a testimony to the struggle of neighborhood activism in Paraguay against institutionalized corruption. This space, known for being a self-managed place and a direct connection with neighborhood associations, fosters a culture centered on the local context and citizen participation. In an intimate and participatory environment, La Misti has once again established itself as a reference for initiatives that, like this one, promote social justice and community empowerment.
The documentary, directed by Mónica Ismael and produced by Fundación por la Justicia with the collaboration of FEDEM Paraguay, was screened for the first time, generating a vibrant debate between the attendees and the protagonists of the audiovisual piece, the Paraguayan activists. Hugo Vazquez Perini y Miguel Sanabria Irepa.
After the screening, Vázquez and Sanabria shared their impressions and answered questions from the audience. Miguel Sanabria He stressed the importance of his visit to Spain by saying: "The intention that brings us to Spain is to seek a better way of life for our fellow citizens and to build a true democracy." Their words reflect the activists' desire to consolidate a more just and equitable society, far removed from the influences of drug trafficking and corruption that have marked their country in recent decades.
The La Misti SpaceIn addition to serving as a meeting point for art and culture, it has become a beacon for neighborhood associations. It is a place where local and global struggles converge, and where cinema, politics and activism come together to raise awareness about the issues that affect both Paraguay and other communities around the world.
During the talk, Hugo Vazquez He expressed his concern about the economic and political situation in his country: «Paraguay's economy is based on agriculture. We fear that the system is narcopolitical.», he said, warning of the dangers of a growing influence of drug trafficking in the country's power structures.
The documentary also highlights the Neighborhood School, a space that activists consider key to the empowerment of local communities. Miguel Sanabria He described this project with pride: «The Neighborhood School is a dream that we created as FEDEM.» For activists, the school represents not only a place of training, but a symbol of resistance and hope, where Paraguayan citizens can organize, learn and fight for their rights in a hostile environment.
The afternoon in The Misti It was not only an opportunity to enjoy committed cinema, but also a space for critical reflection. Attendees actively participated in the conversation, questioning and debating the current situation in Paraguay and the challenges facing neighboring communities. The screening of the documentary and the round table with activists were a reminder of the power of citizen organization in the search for lasting social change.
Espacio La Misti continues to demonstrate its relevance as a self-managed space where the neighborhood, associations and culture come together to address issues that directly affect its environment and other communities internationally.
This event has left a mark on the public, not only because of the importance of the topic discussed, but also because of the palpable connection between local and international struggles that was generated in the debate.