In Panama’s Province of Colon, the vibrant “Dirty Devils” tradition transforms streets during Carnival. This cultural practice, known locally as “Tiempo de Nosotros” or “Tempe de Soto,” represents far more than festive performance. It serves as a living act of historical memory for Afro-descendant communities.
The elaborate costumes and masked performances captivate tourists and locals each year. Historians and community leaders emphasize the tradition’s roots in the colonial era of slavery. Its preservation is a powerful testament to cultural resistance and identity.
Symbolism in Costume and Performance
Every element of the Dirty Devils’ attire holds specific meaning. Francisco Mayri, a community voice, explained the core symbolism. The devil figure itself embodies the oppressive slave master.
“For the Congo community, the Devil symbolizes the ‘oppressive master,'” Mayri stated. [Translated from Spanish] He noted the character represents the fight against a demon incarnate, with costumes designed to evoke the repudiation and fear experienced by enslaved people.
The costume colors narrate a visual story over time. Performers often start with dominant red in their first year. This gradually combines with and yields to black over a process that can span seven years. Accessories like bells symbolize the chains of bondage. The whip carried by the devils directly represents the oppression of the enslaved.
The masks worn by participants function as a tool of mockery and defiance. They allowed historical ancestors to critique their oppressors under the guise of performance. This practice continues today as a form of cultural expression deeply tied to the Congo (Panamanian ethnic group) heritage in Panama.
A Legacy of Temporary Freedom
The tradition’s timeframe is historically significant. The “Tiempo de Nosotros” period coincides with the broader Carnival in Panama. Mayri connected this to a specific colonial practice.
He described it as a time when enslaved people were granted temporary liberty for their celebrations. This sanctioned window allowed for cultural manifestations that would otherwise be suppressed. The contemporary festival directly descends from those moments of authorized expression.
Today’s celebrations across the Province of Colón actively maintain this legacy. The parades are not simply for entertainment. They are considered a vital act of intergenerational transmission.
Elders teach the specific dances, costume construction, and historical meanings to younger community members. This ensures the tradition’s survival as an authentic narrative, not just a tourist spectacle. The practice stands as a profound reminder of resilience.
It connects modern Panamanian culture to its complex Afro-colonial past. The Dirty Devils’ annual appearance guarantees that this history remains visible and vibrant. Their performance is a powerful declaration of identity that continues to evolve while honoring its origins.