Episode 26 - Garifuna Settlement Day in Guatemala

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Join host José Francisco Ávila for an inspiring journey to the Caribbean coast of Guatemala as we celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day, observed every year on November 26th.

This episode honors the historic arrival of the Garifuna people and their enduring legacy in Livingston ("LaBuga"). We explore the profound cultural significance of this national holiday, including the vibrant Yurumein Ceremony, which re-enacts the landing with drums and traditional music on the beach.

We also celebrate the community's global impact, revisiting the UNESCO recognition of Garifuna language, dance, and music as a Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage.

Featured Heroes: Hear the stories of five extraordinary individuals—from champion athlete Teodoro Palacios Floresand community builder Pablo Roberto Mejía, to culture icon Doña Elvira Álvarez Castillo de Ciego, scholar Dr. Daisy Guzman Nunez, and non-profit leader Arnold Ciego—all driving Power, Prosperity and Progress for the Garifuna Nation.

Tune in and celebrate the resilience and future of the Garifuna people!

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• The Garifuna Experience in NYC | Bronx walking tour
• The Garifuna Experience in NYC 
• The Happy Land Memorial Walking Tour 
• Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxNet Video)
• Yurumein | La historia Garífuna de resistencia y herencia cultural en Guatemala
• Hijos de Livingston

Books by José Francisco Ávila

• Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity
• Garífuna Ancestry: The DNA Quest to Decipher the Garifuna Distant Past