For Chileans blinded in police violence, making music has become one path to healing

The band Hacía la Victoria, Spanish for "Onward to Victory," after rehearsal in Santiago, Chile, on Aug. 31. All of the musicians in the band sustained serious eye injuries during clashes with police who used tear gas and shotguns against anti-government protesters in 2019. From left: Camilo Galvez, Vicente Pascal, Sergio Concha, Gustavo Gatica, Cesar Galloso, Andrés López, Miles Camus. (Paz Olivares Droguett for NPR)

SANTIAGO, Chile — At a recording studio in downtown Santiago, musicians are noodling on guitars and adjusting the drum kit as they set up for a jam session that's part rehearsal, part therapy.

All 10 members of the band, called Hacía la Victoria, Spanish for "Onward to Victory," sustained serious eye injuries during clashes with police who used tear gas and shotguns against anti-government protesters in 2019.