"Since the late twentieth century, multicultural reforms to benefit minorities have swept through Latin America; however, in Colombia ethno-racial inequality remains rife. Becoming Heritage evaluates how heritage policies affected the Afro-Colombian community of San Basilio de Palenque after it was proclaimed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2005. Although the designation partially delivered on its promise of multicultural inclusion, it also created ethno-racial exclusion and conflict among groups within the Palenquero community. Bringing together broader discussions on race, nation, and inclusion in Colombia, Becoming Heritage reveals that inequality in Palenque is not only a result of Black Colombians’ uneven access to resources; it is enforced through heritage politics, expertise and governance."

Cambridge University Press, 259 pages