Sonoridades reparadoras : aportes desde la co-creación en la construcción de paz

Abstract

This research seeks to interpret the contributions of sound narratives in symbolic reparation within restorative justice processes, with special emphasis on enforced disappearance. Colombia is a land of contrasts, where natural beauty coexists with a history marked by violence and the internal armed conflict. Only in recent years, between agreements, laws and new institutions, have the harsh realities of war become visible and given a central role to the victims in the construction of memory and truth. The Works, Acts and Activities with Reparative and Restorative Content (TOAR) have served as spaces for restorative justice. In particular, the TOAR of Ciudad Bolivar 2023 brought together members of the Public Forces involved in the Macro Caso 03, Murders and forced disappearances presented as combat casualties by State agents, victims from various regions of the country and state entities such as La Alta Consejería de Paz, Víctimas y Reconciliación (High Counselor's Office for Peace, Victims and Reconciliation). This process is part of a policy of restorative justice that seeks to overcome the dehumanization of the conflict and give voice to those who have been historically silenced. The sound narratives co-created in these spaces have been fundamental for symbolic reparation. Through rural and urban sounds, responsorial chants, clay work, muralism and handmade luthería, victims and participants have found ways to express their memories and realities. These artistic practices have allowed the communication of the unspeakable, facilitating individual and collective healing processes. Beyond the artistic result, the emphasis has been on the creative process, where the exchange of words and the building of trust have been key elements. The sound narratives co-created in these spaces have been fundamental for symbolic reparation. Through rural and urban sounds, responsorial chants, clay work, muralism and handmade luthería, victims and participants have found ways to express their memories and realities. These artistic practices have allowed the communication of the unspeakable, facilitating individual and collective healing processes. Beyond the artistic result, the emphasis has been on the creative process, where the exchange of words and the building of trust have been key elements. This research compiles experiences of the TOAR of 2023 in Ciudad Bolivar to show how the co-creation of sound narratives is a powerful tool for symbolic reparation, as it allows victims to re-signify their experiences and build new collective memories.