Guna Centennial Celebration
Guna Rebellion
2025 marks one-hundred years since the Guna rebellion of 1925 when the Guna people fought against the Panamanian government to protect their land and traditions. They emerged victorious and as a result, were able to secure self-governance. They celebrate this momentous occasion annually. This page honors a century of Guna independence showcasing their pride, culture, and enduring spirit.
This interview was conducted with Bernal Castillo and Taira Stanley, Director and Coordinator of the Oficina de los Pueblos Indigenas at the University of Panama.
The Guna Revolution
In the early 20th century, the Panamanian government tried to strip away Guna traditions by banning dress, ceremonies, and sacred drinks. Police occupied their lands and violently punished those who resisted. Guna leaders such as Olowideli, who was beaten for refusing to comply, and Oloingigge, who was assassinated, became martyrs of resistance. Others, like Sáhila Colman, negotiated with political leaders, while figures such as Olonibiginya and Niga Kantule organized the community in secret, preparing to defend their culture. Women played a central role: choosing red as the color of resistance, stitching the first Guna flag, and crafting the strategy for rebellion.
In February 1925, during a government Carnaval celebration, the Guna struck. Wearing red, they launched an uprising that lasted four days, killing dozens of Panamanian soldiers and securing victory. With Richard Marsh, an American who bore witness and stood alongside them, the Guna drafted a declaration of independence and negotiated peace with the Panamanian government. Though they renewed allegiance to Panamá, the Guna retained control over their land and traditions. Today, the Guna Revolution is honored every year through reenactments, songs, and gatherings in the Congress House, celebrating the courage of leaders like Olonibiginya, Niga Kantule, and the women whose vision carried the Guna to freedom.
Celebration
The Guna celebrates this anniversary through cultural dances, the drinking of chicha; a traditional Guna drink, historical songs, and both performative and fine art. Murals are painted and buildings spray-painted with text highlighting the one-hundred-year celebration. Every February, traditional dances and specific songs are played to highlight the important time. For the celebration, the Guna dress in red traditional clothing, which was the color that they wore during the rebellion. They perform reenactments of important events in the Guna revolution where sometimes, if an American tourist is present, they can play the part of “Richard Marsh,” who was an American present during the revolution. For the centennial celebration the Guna hosted monthly activities for the duration of that year.
