For a spring break trip this past March, I had the opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico on a civic engagement trip. Having been to the island three times prior, I assumed that I knew what to expect. On the contrary, I was in for a unique surprise.

Much of Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan, is protected by a fort known as El Morro. For centuries, this fort has served as a protection from invaders. La Perla is a neighborhood that is unknown to many and unseen by everyone. It is where the “have-not's” live and it is said to be a dangerous place. Interestingly, this neighborhood was built outside of the island’s fortress, El Morro. In a way, those who live in this area are seen as not belonging, castaways even. It is as if they are unworthy of the protection that the mighty fortress once offered. In my trips to Puerto Rico, I had never been to, or even heard of La Perla so I was incredibly excited to be able to walk through this small, yet heavily populated neighborhood.

My colleagues and I were able to walk through one of the main streets of the large neighborhood and I didn’t feel unsafe. Although many people would make it out to be a dangerous place, I felt proud to be walking through that area. Those who live in La Perla are, after all, Americans — they are our people. While walking, I noticed a lot of graffiti, but it wasn’t vandalism, it was art. The murals told a story — it was as if they portrayed a glimpse of history.

After walking down to the main street of La Perla, I saw the mural that is shown above and I was completely stunned by it’s intricacies and beauty. In addition, we were able to stop at a bakery called Panadería La Perla. This bakery had just opened up one week before we arrived in March. We were honored to go in and support the shop.

The island's government is trying to bring more help and awareness to the neighborhood and I think that this is a great step. The workers were incredibly kind and the food was so delicious and refreshing! I hope that this bakery can give La Perla the support that it needs.

Pa’lante, Puerto Rico!