Enchanté 2024 Paris Olympics, Bienvenue Ashonté
By Ashonté S. Lyles
The Horizon Calls Ashonté to the 2024 Paris Olympics!
Enchanté 2024 Paris Olympics, Bienvenue Ashonté
Bonjour, fellow Horizon Calls Nomads. Your favorite Louisiana Creole writer, Ashonté Lyles here, with some incredibly exciting news. I am about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, spending two months living and writing in France during the 2024 Paris Olympics! I am accompanying my husband Marlon who has been accepted as a volunteer for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. From the bustling streets of Paris to the charming vineyards of Bordeaux, I'll be soaking in every bit of French culture, history, and, of course, the Olympics!
The Path: Prologue to an Olympic Volunteer Experience
Read The Path: Prologue to an Olympic Volunteer Experience about Marlon’s path to Olympic Volunteer and follow his Olympic journey as it unfolds in real-time at The Horizon Calls | Let’s GEAUX YouTube channel under "The Olympic Volunteer Experience" playlist.
A Journey with Deep Roots and New Discoveries
As a descendant of French Colonial Louisiana, this trip isn't just about visiting a new country—it's about profoundly connecting with my heritage. My ancestors, part of the African Diaspora, have a complex history with France. They once ruled parts of France before being enslaved and trafficked across the globe by French colonizers. Now, I return to France for the fourth time, walking the same streets where my ancestors experienced such drastic changes in their lives. This full-circle moment is not just mine; it's shared with the entire Diaspora.
The Louisiana-French Connection
The relationship between Louisiana and France is rich and complex. The French influence is evident in Louisiana's cuisine, music, and unique Creole dialects. However, this connection is also a reminder of the harsh realities of colonialism and slavery. As I explore France, I am eager to deepen my understanding of this multifaceted history and reflect on the resilience and strength of my ancestors.
African Rulers in France
The history of Africans in France is multifaceted and includes periods of significant influence and power. One notable example is the reign of the Moors, African Muslims who ruled over parts of Southern Europe, including parts of what is now France, from the 8th to the 15th centuries. The Moors brought advancements in science, mathematics, architecture, and culture that profoundly influenced European societies. Their presence in regions like the Iberian Peninsula and parts of Southern France left a lasting impact on Europe's cultural and intellectual landscape.
Living the Olympic Dream
The Paris 2024 Olympics is not just a global sporting event; it's a celebration of unity, passion, and excellence. I am beyond excited to attend several Olympic events, cheering on Team USA and supporting my amazing husband Marlon, who is volunteering for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Hospitality Houses and Olympic Events
One of the highlights of my trip will be visiting the Hospitality Houses at the Games. These houses are hosted by various countries and offer a unique cultural experience, showcasing the best of each nation's food, drink, and entertainment. I can't wait to immerse myself in these vibrant cultural hubs and share my experiences with you all!
Embracing the French Lifestyle
France is a country that excels in art, fashion, cuisine, and culture, and I plan to indulge in all of it! Here's a sneak peek into some of the things I am most excited about:
Culinary Delights
From buttery croissants to rich, velvety chocolates, and an endless variety of cheeses, my taste buds are in for a treat. I am particularly looking forward to exploring local cafes and bakeries, sipping on freshly brewed coffee while enjoying delicate pastries.
Fashion and Shopping
As a lover of high fashion, France is a dream come true. I'll be exploring the boutiques of Louis Vuitton, Versace, Hermès, MCM, and Balmain, soaking in the latest trends and maybe even adding a few new pieces to my wardrobe.
Historical and Cultural Exploration
Paris is a city steeped in history and culture. I plan to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles. The museums and art galleries will be a feast for my eyes, and I am eager to learn more about the political and social history of France.
Everyday Adventures
It's not just about the big attractions; I'm equally excited about the everyday experiences. Visiting grocery stores and corner shops, dining at quaint restaurants, and sipping cocktails at chic bars—all these moments will make my time in France truly special.
Learning and Growing
One of my goals in life has been to learn French and delve into Kouri-Vini, the Louisiana Creole French dialect. I have been practicing French, but this trip will be my first chance to fully immerse myself in the language. This linguistic journey will bring me closer to my cultural roots and help me connect more deeply with my heritage.
A Full-Circle Moment
This trip is not just about exploring France; it's also about recognizing a full-circle moment for the African Diaspora. Hip Hop, a culture and movement that began in the Bronx, NY, and is deeply rooted in African traditions, is now part of the Olympic Games with Break Dancing. The inclusion of Break Dancing is a powerful reminder of how our culture continues to influence and shape the world. The Culture, born from African roots and spread globally, reflects our ancestors' resilience and adaptability. Through the art of dance, the world will witness the full expression of The Culture and the ongoing journey of our people.
Final Thoughts
As I prepare for this incredible journey, I am filled with excitement, curiosity, and a profound connection to my ancestors. France is calling, and I can't wait to answer. Follow along on The Horizon Calls for updates, stories, and tips from my French adventure.
To all my fellow nomads who dream of traveling and immersing themselves in new cultures—this journey is for you too. Let's GEAUX explore the world, embrace our heritage, and create unforgettable memories together.
Until next time, à bientôt!
****
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