Rhyths of Unity: The Global Merengue Movement

By Sabat Beatto

Rhythms of Unity: The Global Merengue Movement

Merengue, the vibrant and infectious dance rhythm originating from the Dominican Republic, serves as a powerful symbol of unity and cultural convergence. This project celebrates merengue as a unifying force that transcends racial and cultural boundaries, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds—black, white, mulatto, taíno, and mestizo—through its irresistible beats and melodies.

Rooted in a history of blending African, European, and Indigenous influences, merengue embodies the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. Our mission is to harness this rich musical tradition to promote social cohesion and celebrate the beauty of diversity. Through community events, dance workshops, and collaborative performances, we aim to create spaces where individuals can connect, share their stories, and move harmoniously.

Join us in this dynamic exploration of merengue as more than just a dance—a movement towards a more inclusive and united world. Let's dance to the rhythm of unity, where every step brings us closer to a future of shared joy and understanding.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sabat Beatto
• Release date: Jun 21, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227911186

Sabat Beatto

About the author Sabat Beatto was born in the Dominican Republic and has pursued diverse interests and studies throughout his life. Along with studying real estate, acting, music, and cinematography, he earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in special education. As an accomplished author, Sabat Beatto has written an impressive collection of books, including "The Old Man and His Mango Tree," "The Power of Gratitude," "Spirit of the Land," "Educational Partner," "The Power of Perseverance," "The Power of Hero," "Bullying Epidemic," "The Power of Trust," "Overcoming Obstacles," "Learning for Life," "Inspiring a Love for Soccer," "The ABC of Snakes," "Math Activities," "My First Preschool Workbook" series (consisting of four books, with more to come). Sabat Beatto has demonstrated his passion for education, personal growth, and social issues through his writing. His works reflect his deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities through knowledge, perseverance, and empathy.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

A MAN CALLED JOY

I

n a small Caribbean town, under the shade of an old, green, and strong oak tree, a few children were full of great excitement, their faces lit with happiness as they watched the path in front of them. An old man was walking down it, his steps slow but steady. The sunlight created a magical glow on their small, simple faces.

He's here! one of the children shouted desperately, rushing forward to meet the old man. The boy, named Tomas, looked up at him with great pleasure. Hurry, Grandpa! We’ve been waiting for your story.

The old man smiled warmly, a twinkle in his eye, and allowed Tomas to take his hand. Forgive me for being late, he said, removing an old but well-kept hat from his head. Many years ago, I was faster, but that has changed a bit with age.

Another child, a girl named Sofia, giggled and said, You're always just in time, Grandpa. We were about to start without you!

The children gathered closely around him as he settled down on the fresh, green grass. Maria, with braids that danced around her face, sat right next to him, her eyes wide with anticipation. Next to her was Rafael, a boy with a contagious laugh, and Isabel, the quiet observer with a keen eye.

Today I will tell you a unique and true story. One I have wanted to tell you for a long time, the old man expressed, placing his hat on the grass while a smile formed on his face.

The children looked at each other with great excitement. Their eyes were wide open, reflecting the sun on the sea.

Many years ago... said the old man, the Caribbean towns were divided. He continued, Blacks, whites, and indigenous people were in different groups, and although it seemed good, it was not! Mixed-race people were displaced and expelled by their own families because of an idea we now know as racism. However, in the midst of this terrible division, a brave man stepped forward.

The children were static, all sitting on the green grass with their eyes wide open, focusing solely on the old man's gestures and words.

The brave man, seeing so much suffering, turned to something unexpected: he made music his most lethal weapon to fight injustice, said the old man, widening his eyes. His voice was unique, he continued, and being displaced for being a mulatto (a mix of black and white), unable to sing victories with the whites, sorrows with the indigenous, or drum rhythms with the blacks, he invented a rhythm as unique as his majestic voice. However, it wasn't enough to vent his anger and helplessness.

Suddenly, one of the children Tomas, who had always been curious about everything, couldn't contain his excitement raised his hand, interrupting the old man's story. What's your question, little one? asked the old man with a friendly smile.

What was the brave man's name? asked the child with great curiosity in his tender voice.

At that moment, the other children began to ask the same question repeatedly, eager to know the hero's name.

Don't worry, little ones, you will soon find out, said the old man with a big smile. You seem more anxious to see the cat before it comes out of the bag, he continued, smiling along with the children who laughed with him.

The old man chuckled softly His name was Joy, said the old man, looking at the children whose curious eyes moved from side to side.

Joy? Tomas repeated, trying the name out on his tongue. Why did they call him Joy?

Because he brought joy to everyone who heard him, the old man replied with a fond smile. His music was like sunshine after a storm, warming hearts and bringing people together.

Sofia, intrigued by this, leaned forward. How did Joy learn to love music so much, Grandpa?

The old man paused, his gaze turning thoughtful as memories from long ago flooded his mind. Ah, Joy's love for music began when he was just a boy, much like you all. He grew up in a village not far from here, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the songs of his mother.

Maria, with her braids bouncing with excitement, asked, Did his mother sing to him?

Yes, Maria, the old man nodded, a gentle smile tugging at his lips. Joy's mother had a voice that could soothe the wildest seas and calm the stormiest hearts. Every night, she would sing him lullabies as he drifted off to sleep.

Rafael, always full of energy, chimed in, Did Joy sing too?

At first, Joy listened, the old man continued, his voice soft yet filled with warmth. He listened to the birds in the trees, the waves crashing on the shore, and the rhythms of life all around him. He learned that music was not just about notes and melodies, but about feeling the heartbeat of the world.

Isabel, who had been listening quietly, asked, Did he have someone to teach him?

The old man nodded, his eyes twinkling with remembered joy. Yes, Isabel. Joy's village was visited by a traveling musician named Señor Santiago. Santiago was a master of the guitar and had a voice that could make the moonlight dance. He saw the spark of music in Joy's eyes and decided to teach him everything he knew.

Tomas, eager to hear more, asked, Did Joy become a famous singer?

The old man smiled, his eyes distant yet filled with pride. Yes, Tomas. Joy's voice echoed through the valleys and over the mountains. People traveled from far and wide to hear him sing. But more than fame, Joy wanted his music to bring people together, to remind them that we are all connected, no matter our differences.

As the old man spoke, the children and even some adults who had gathered around listened with rapt attention. They could feel the magic of Joy's story weaving through their hearts, connecting them