Swiss city Lausanne, characterized by Spanish influence due to significant Galician emigration, attributed to the 'Asociación A Roda'
The Association Cultural A Roda in Lausanne, Switzerland, is a vibrant cultural hub for Galician traditions, founded by members who share a common heritage as children of migrants from Galicia, Spain. With official recognition from the Galician Government, the association aims to preserve and celebrate the rich Galician language, music, dance, and folklore, providing a communal space for those interested in Galician culture.
The name "A Roda" holds significant meaning in Galician and related Iberian cultures, often referring to traditional circular dances or gatherings. This association likely embodies a similar sense of cultural circle or community, fostering cultural identity abroad in Lausanne.
Each year, the members of the association travel to Galicia to visit their families, reinforcing their connection to their roots, which are deeply cherished. Despite being more than 1,000 kilometers away, they consider Galicia to be their home. This strong sense of belonging is rooted in the migration of their parents from Galicia to Switzerland during the 1960s in search of better conditions.
The members of 'A Roda' are primarily from Andalusian, Asturian, and especially Galician communities. They take pride in their own local culture while also actively promoting Galician traditions. Recently, they have shared their stories with TVE cameras, offering a glimpse into the heart of this cultural association.
The association's role is multifaceted, encompassing the preservation and transmission of the Galician language and folklore, the organisation of cultural events such as traditional music and dance performances, and the support of the Galician diaspora community in maintaining their cultural roots. By doing so, the Association Cultural A Roda serves as a vital link between Galicia and its diaspora, fostering cultural exchange, education, and celebration within the Galician community in Switzerland.
The Association Cultural A Roda in Lausanne, with its emphasis on Galician traditions, might also extend its cultural polarity to include aspects of lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and travel. Galician clothing styles and culinary specialties may be incorporated into the association's events, while exploring traditional Galician landscapes during travel could be part of the members' annual journeys to their homeland.
