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| Cultura en EspañolFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: José Francisco Ávila(917) 383-7014Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. Celebrates 24th Anniversary of UNESCO Recognition as a «Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity «Oprima para leer en españolThe Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc., a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization, proudly commemorates the 24th Anniversary of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s profound declaration of the Garifuna Language, Music, and Dance as a «Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.» This landmark recognition, bestowed on May 18, 2001, underscores the immense cultural significance and global importance of the Garifuna heritage. A vital component of this UNESCO proclamation is the Language Policy Statement of the Garifuna Nation, adopted in 1997. This policy actively promotes the preservation, development, and wider utilization of the Garifuna language through dedicated programs and projects. The overarching goal remains to empower Garifuna communities in safeguarding their rich intangible heritage, which encompasses a vast spectrum of cultural expressions, including spirituality, language, oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, visual arts, and crafts. The Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. remains steadfast in its dedication to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the vibrant cultural heritage of the Garifuna people. We are committed to engaging the broader New York City community in experiencing and appreciating this unique cultural treasure. Through our collective efforts, we strive to ensure that the vibrant culture, rich history, and significant contributions of the Garifuna people continue to flourish for generations to come. Our unwavering cultural advocacy has been recognized. We were among a select group of 1,078 organizations citywide to receive public support for cultural programs serving New Yorkers. The Garifuna Coalition was awarded a Fiscal Year 2025 Cultural Development Fund (CDF) grant from the esteemed New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA). This competitive grant, awarded through a rigorous peer-evaluation process, directly supported the organization’s successful 2025 Garifuna Heritage Month Celebration, which took place from March 11th to April 12th, 2025. The Garifuna community represents a vital and distinct thread in the diverse cultural fabric of New York City, which is home to the largest Garifuna population outside of Central America, estimated at over 250,000 individuals. For two centuries, the Garifuna heritage has enriched New York City’s cultural landscape. Notably, in 1823, William Henry Brown penned and staged «The Drama of King Shotaway,» the first known African American play, which powerfully chronicled the Garifuna people’s courageous defense of St. Vincent against British colonization in 1795, led by the indomitable Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer. This historical and cultural legacy, now recognized by UNESCO as a «Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,» continues to profoundly enrich the diverse cultural tapestry of New York City. As we proudly celebrate the twenty-fourth anniversary of UNESCO’s landmark proclamation, the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting and celebrating the enduring cultural heritage of the Garifuna people and to fostering a deeper appreciation for this vibrant heritage within the broader New York City community.### |
| This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council. |
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Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. Celebrates 24th Anniversary of UNESCO Recognition as a «Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity «
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