Grima: the machete fencing of Puerto TejadaCEFR A2
19 Apr 2025
Adapted from Rowan Glass, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by J̶o̶h̶n̶n̶y̶ Sántiz, Unsplash
Grima is a traditional martial art from Puerto Tejada in Cauca. It began in the colonial era when enslaved Africans turned the machete from a work tool into a weapon and a way to defend themselves.
At the House of Cacao, the local academy trains students with a machete and a defensive stick called a bordón. A recognized master explains that grima is an art of freedom and resistance and must be kept alive.
Today fewer young people learn grima and the art has no official status in the national heritage registry. Masters and activists are asking for recognition to get support and programs.
Difficult words
- traditional — from the past; long-established practice or style
- martial art — a fighting skill practiced as sport or tradition
- enslave — to make someone a slave; take away freedomenslaved
- machete — a large knife used for cutting or fighting
- academy — a school for special skills or learning
- recognition — official acceptance or public approval of something
- heritage — things from the past valued by a group
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think it is important to keep traditional arts like grima alive? Why or why not?
- Would you like to learn a martial art that uses tools like a machete? Why or why not?
- What could help more young people learn traditional arts in your community?
