Prohibido Olvidar

Rubén Blades' song 'Prohibido Olvidar' is a powerful anthem against oppression and the erasure of collective memory. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society where fundamental freedoms are systematically stripped away. Blades lists a series of prohibitions, from education and free speech to the right to protest and the freedom to think independently. These restrictions are not just political but also deeply personal, affecting the very essence of human dignity and autonomy. The repeated refrain, 'Prohibido olvidar' (Forbidden to forget), serves as a rallying cry, urging listeners to remember these injustices to prevent their recurrence.

The song is a critique of authoritarian regimes that use fear and control to maintain power. Blades highlights how such governments suppress intellectual and social freedoms, creating an environment where questioning authority is dangerous. The prohibition of free press, public opinion, and even humor about the government underscores the extent of control exerted over the populace. By emphasizing the importance of memory and awareness, Blades encourages resistance against such oppressive forces. The song suggests that forgetting these injustices would be tantamount to allowing them to happen again.

Blades also touches on the broader societal implications of living under such regimes. He speaks to the dangers of corruption, drug addiction, and violence, which further erode the fabric of society. The lyrics lament the loss of national development and the stifling of future potential. Blades' message is clear: a nation's strength lies in the hearts and minds of its people. When a society is controlled by the wealthy or the military, justice becomes fragmented, and true liberation becomes a distant dream. The song ends on a hopeful note, reminding listeners that a nation that values its freedom and integrity cannot be easily subdued. 'Prohibido olvidar' is both a warning and a call to action, urging people to remember their past to build a better future.