From National Popular To Popular Resistance: Representation And Performance At Bolivian Andes Celebration

In this paper two important Bolivian issues are discussed through the popular Bolivian Andes Celebration: social democratization connection, the state form, and unequal articulation of social disposal. In this sense, it is shown that although the popular celebration takes place at a Bolivian "political transformation" apparent context, the state is not involved in it. This is the Great Power celebration in La Paz which expands its logic to other places. Thus, this celebration created by Aymara immigrants is an activity which has been organized by "the people" and avoids being coopted by the politic power and mediators presence. Another cultural logic and values, in regard to the state perception, are shown at the popular celebration. Although, everything seems to aim to a national identity reaffirmation, it is really interesting to notice how the concluding logic, national citizen affirmation, folklorists and immigrants are articulated.