Así como hoy matan negros

Victor Jara's song 'Así como hoy matan negros' is a powerful and poignant commentary on historical and ongoing racial and political violence. The lyrics draw a parallel between the contemporary killing of Black people and the historical oppression of various Latin American communities, including Mexicans, Chileans, Nicaraguans, and Peruvians. Jara, a Chilean folk singer and political activist, uses his music to highlight the inhumanity and brutality of these acts, often perpetrated by foreign powers, particularly the United States, referred to as 'gringos' in the song.

The song also pays homage to Joaquín Murieta, a legendary figure in Chilean folklore who symbolizes resistance against oppression. Murieta, often compared to Robin Hood, is depicted as a bandit who fought against the injustices faced by his people. By invoking Murieta's name, Jara emphasizes the importance of standing up against tyranny and injustice, no matter the odds. This reference serves as a rallying cry for unity and resistance among oppressed communities.

The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative. The 'horse of silk' and the 'pistols like two poppies' symbolize the elegance and beauty of the fight for justice, as well as the inevitable violence that comes with it. Jara's lyrics suggest that the struggle for freedom and dignity is both a noble and a perilous journey. The song's message is clear: the fight against oppression is ongoing, and it requires courage, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to justice.