ACAICATE brings the Los Finaos tradition into Fuerteventura’s classrooms

The Acaicate Cultural Association has launched an initiative to revive and pass on the tradition of Los Finaos to younger generations in Fuerteventura. Through a programme of visits to schools across the island, the Tuineje-based organisation is introducing pupils to the stories, memories and customs that have been part of this popular Canarian celebration for generations.

Fátima Marrero, the association’s president, tells La Voz de Fuerteventura about the purpose of a project born of the group’s commitment to preserving cultural roots and the memory of older generations.

“There are traditions that must not disappear,” she says emphatically, stressing the importance of passing on the legacy of those who came before to children.

“As long as memories find ears, our departed will never die”

Marrero recalls that behind every custom are family stories, songs and memories that form part of the identity of local communities and shape a collective memory that must never be lost. Her comments come at a time when celebrations originating elsewhere, such as Halloween, are “taking over” streets and public spaces, including in Fuerteventura.

Marrero stresses the importance of preserving this legacy, “because a people who forget their roots lose part of their identity”. She also emphasises the value of teaching young children to remember and honour their loved ones.

She says the project is especially moving because “as long as memories find ears, our departed will never die”. She also thanks the island’s educational centres for their keen interest in learning about and sharing cultural heritage with pupils.

“Traditions are not just memories; they are deep roots, they are our truth,” ACAICATE says.

A tour of Fuerteventura’s schools

The educational programme began this past Monday at CEIP Poeta Domínguez Velázquez, continued on Tuesday at CEIP Cristóbal García Blairzy and then, on Wednesday 28, at CEIP Las Playitas.

On Thursday 29 October, the association visited CEIP Pablo Neruda, while on Friday 30 October it brought the Canarian tradition to schools in Tarajalejo and Gran Tarajal.

The tour will conclude next Tuesday, 3 November, at CEIP Tuineje.