The program was designed to promote reflection and collective memory, pay tribute to the victims, and highlight the stories of the communities affected by the events of December 20, 1989. The president of the Panama Canal Museum, Hidelgar Vásquez, explained that this exhibition is held every year as part of the institution’s responsibility to recognize the historical importance of this event. Throughout the day, the museum welcomed numerous national and international visitors interested in learning more about the history of December 20th and the construction of the Panama Canal. “The entire museum team makes sure that these open days can take place and that both Panamanians and foreigners can perceive what that moment in our history was like,” he said. The initiative was carried out within the framework of the National Day of Mourning and was part of a special agenda of cultural and educational activities to commemorate the 36th anniversary of the United States military invasion of Panama. The participating organizations highlighted the importance of culture and education as fundamental tools for preserving historical memory and strengthening national identity. Rubén Blades questioned why the true number of victims in the 'Just Cause' invasion is still unknown. On this National Day of Mourning, the Panamanian singer-songwriter said that “despite the magnitude of 'Just Cause', the incident has still not been properly studied, analyzed, and resolved.” There isn’t even certainty about how many of our compatriots died. This weekend, the Panama Canal Museum opened its doors free of charge to the public, in a day that brought together both Panamanians and foreign visitors. During December 20th, guided tours, screenings and workshops were held, with the participation of communities from Santa Ana and El Chorrillo, integrating territory, memory and urban history. Temi Núñez, a museum guide, explained that the space features an immersive room with excerpts and narratives from family members who lost loved ones, as well as a reenactment of how the invasion unfolded. She added that many tourists show interest and often ask about the causes of the events. Several expressed satisfaction with the tour and noted that they learned new information. She also emphasized that it is the only exhibition of its kind in the country.
