Youth Activism & Political History

Chile

Duration 10 days

Suggested group size 12 - 20 students / 2 Envoys Field Staff

Suggested ages 14 - 18

Experience Youth Activism & Political History

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A Chile for All? Youth Activism & Political History

Chile II

Chile is a diverse nation that presents hidden contrasts. Santiago, the vibrant capital, is a bustling metropolis with thriving industries and cultural richness. Yet, Chile grapples with a tumultuous political history, indigenous struggles, and the dichotomy of mining versus environmental preservation. This program delves into the tensions of urban and rural development, leadership challenges, and social justice movements advocating for marginalized voices.

“In the heart of South America, Chile's diverse beauty stretches from the arid Atacama to the fjords of Patagonia, a geography as varied as its people.“

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“Andes embrace stories, mountain fjords narrate tales of grandeur and endurance.“

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Impact Statement Everywhere we go, we carry a promise – to engage with respect, act with purpose, and leave a positive imprint. As envoys of our journey is more than travel; Our footprint is light, but our impact is profound, creating bridges of cooperation and mutual growth across the globe.

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Day 1

Students arrive from their international flights and are welcomed by Envoys educators. After settling into accommodations, they engage in a safety briefing and group-building activities. Exploring the surroundings, they share a welcome meal, embracing Chilean traditions and fostering camaraderie.

Day 2

We navigate Santiago's vast subway system. Exploring Bella Vista, Cerro San Cristobal, the central cathedral, and Plaza de Armas, we delve into Chile's political history. A reflective ice cream workshop and a literature reading by Isabel Allende offer context and insights into the cultural landscape

Day 3

We start with a tone-setting exercise, exploring the dictatorship's history. Then, a visit to the Museum of Memory offers a living archive of Chile's past. Later, we climb Cerro Santa Lucia, discussing its significance and the city's design. Finally, dinner in Lastarria and a leisurely stroll.

Day 4

We prepare for empathic interviews with students at La Universidad de Chile, using the method learned earlier. Students discuss societal change, civic engagement, and current issues with La U students. After lunch and a debrief, we embark on a public art tour.

Day 5

We spend a day in Pomaire, exploring the town, engaging in a pottery workshop with local clay, and enjoying an authentic Chilean asado. In the afternoon, we reflect on our travel journey, acknowledging our progress and recognizing the learning still ahead.

Day 6

We leave the city for the coastal town, enjoy a seafood lunch, and prep for homestays. In the afternoon, we explore Valparaiso's hills, fostering situational awareness. In the evening, students head to homestays in small groups while faculty (Envoys) staff stay in a centralized hotel.

Day 7

A day to gain perspectives on youth activism and Chilean culture from young people in Valpo and a visit to a youth empowerment nonprofit. Then, we go on a public art tour and compare art made by youth in Santiago and in Valpo, trying to understand cultural differences and differences in perception.

Day 8

We board the bus to explore Viña del Mar, the beach city to the north where we participate in global beach cleanup efforts. After a picnic lunch together, our group returns to Valpo for a relaxed afternoon of student choice activities. Students return to their homestays for one final evening.

Day 9

En route back to Santiago, we visit the coastal home of one of Chile’s sons, Pablo Neruda. We take a tour and complete a Blackout Poetry activity, each of us with a different Neruda poem. We share our creations and then connect our own poems to Neruda’s reflections on Chile.

Day 10

We bid farewell in the morning and complete our program evaluations before boarding flights home.

Highlights

Lenses of Inquiry

Political History

Chile's 1980s and early 1990s were troubled times, from the removal of Allende to Pinochet's dictatorship. Pinochet persecuted critics, leading to thousands of executions. The US government's involvement in supporting Pinochet is explored, shedding light on its role in Latin American politics.

Youth Leadership

Explore youth activism and its impact on social and political change, analyzing how pop culture reflects reactions to societal challenges and future aspirations. Chilean youth activism's global success in 2016, securing universal education rights through public protests, is a notable highlight.

Urban vs Rural

In Santiago, where 40% of Chile's population resides, and 85% in urban areas, the urbanization dynamic differs significantly from the United States. The program explores these realities, examining the city's expansive growth and contrasting it with rural regions.

FAQS

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At Envoys, we work to unite and educators from around the world to explore issues of global significance.

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Do I need a visa to travel this destination?

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Envoys is not a licensed insurance broker. However, families can easily request a quote and purchase insurance through our partner, Trawick International. Click here to get a quote. For assistance or any questions that may arise regarding insurance, you can contact Trawick international at 1-888-301-9289 or by email at info@TrawickInternational.com Non-US citizens are only legally allowed to purchase Safe Travels USA Comprehensive or Safe Travels International Cost Saver insurance plans from Trawick International.

What currency is used, and how can I exchange money?

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The program maintains multiple lines of communication with the school, families, and Envoys main offices. The expedition will be equipped with local and international cell phones, a GPS transponder, and two-way radios. Program leaders will follow strict protocols to maintain a consistent flow of information. To ensure families are able to follow our trip, Envoys has custom-built a proprietary online platform to facilitate mobile uploading of information. Staff upload photos, videos, and postings feeds to the platform multiple times each day.

What vaccinations or health precautions do I need?

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No one can guarantee freedom from harm, including accident, injury, illness, or death. A degree of risk is inherent in this program, as well as in all travel and outdoor activities. Potential hazards include severe weather, public disorder, interactions with non-program participants, lack of medical facilities, exposure to disease, and transportation accidents. Mental health issues may also be exacerbated through the stresses of a new experience.

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