New York, NY– Monday, January 13, 2025 – The Garifuna Experience in NYC, is pleased to announce that José Francisco Ávila, a Garifuna Afro-Latino Trailblazer, will present at the Bentley University’s MartinLuther King Jr. 2025 event on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The event is a cherished campus tradition that pays tribute to Dr. King’s legacy while celebrating our shared commitment to justice, equality, and community involvement.
José Francisco Ávila, a proud Garifuna andAfro-Latino, is a Bentley University alumnus, a successful entrepreneur, social justice activist and a renowned author. He is originally from Honduras, immigrated to the US at age 15, enjoyed success after graduating from Bentley and currently resides in New York City. His journey from Honduras to the UnitedStates has been marked by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to his cultural heritage.
The Garifuna are Afro-Indigenous land defenders whose very existence is threatened by national and international interest in and threats to their ancestral lands. As a member of the Garifuna people, an Afro-Indigenous group with a rich history and unique cultural identity, Ávila has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Garifuna culture. His writings, including “Garifuna Ancestry: The DNA Quest to Decipher the Garifuna Distant Past” and “Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral,Ethnic and Cultural Identity,” have received critical acclaim and shed light onthe often-overlooked history and experiences of the Garifuna people.
Ávila’s work has had a significant impact on the Garifuna community, both in the United States and abroad. He has been a vocal advocate for indigenous rights and has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the challenges faced by the Garifuna people. His success story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and cultural activists alike.
Through his entrepreneurial ventures and creative pursuits, Ávila has demonstrated the power of cultural heritage and the potential for positive social change. His journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Garifuna people.
About The Garifuna Experience in NYC:
The Garifuna Experience in NYC is a tourism destination brand, which aims to position New York City as the Epicenter of the Garifuna Arts and Garifuna Culture. A member of the New York City Tourism +Conventions.
About José Francisco Ávila:
Licensed Sightseeing Guide and member of the Guides Association New York City. His Happy Land Memorial walking tour was recognized asone of the Historic District Council’s 2023 Six to Celebrate awardees. He is the chairman of the Board of the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc., and ManagingMember of GALENT Media and Publishing, LLC.
