Casa Mantay fights against various social issues that affect women and young girls all over Peru. This support can be seen through offering a home, childcare, medicine, therapy, academic support and even food!
In Peru, food is known to break away barriers that could separate different communities. It creates a sense of union-ship, companionship, and even a sense of belonging. For this reason, I have found that in Casa Mantay solidarity is represented through food. Mothers, children, educators, workers, and volunteers gather everyday for meals and snacks. It is a familial time that brings everyone’s different customs and personalities together since each mother comes from a different departments of Peru and all of the volunteers are either from Germany, Spain, and France.
I believe that this support through food also highlights the high poverty rates in Peru. Having a plate of food is a privilege that many in Peru, and in Qosqo, are not able to have and having Casa Mantay be a main supporter of that is truly amazing. In addition, I find it becomes more evident in the stories of the girls at home, which highlights the neglection of the Peruvian government when it comes to gender violence and how a form of violence can is insecurity!
P.s. in the picture attached I have decided to blur the kids face and their schools name for their own safety. However, they were really enjoying their food which that day was arroz chaufa (Peruvian style fried rice!)
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