Garifuna Settlement Day 2023: Date, History, Facts About Garifuna People

The Garifuna language and culture were formally acknowledged by UNESCO in the year 2001.

Garifuna Settlement Day 2023: Garifuna Settlement Day is annually observed on November 19 in Belize. This day marks the historical migration of the Garifuna communities into Belizean territory subsequent to their forced removal from the Grenadines islands at the hands of the British colonial administration. Today, we honor the group’s contributions to their new home and emphasize their integration into the culture of Central America. An annual public holiday is designated for the nation to participate in parades and public demonstrations that feature traditional dancing, street music, and Belizean food vendors. Join us as we divulge all that we have learned regarding the subject.

Garifuna Settlement Day 2023: History

On November 19, Belize observes Garifuna Settlement Day to honor the migration of the exiled Garifuna people and their establishments within the country. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was among the remaining Caribbean islands over which the British Empire extended its dominion shortly after the ratification of the Treaty of Paris and its triumph over the French settlers. Following France’s complete abandonment of the islands and the final surrender of the locals in 1796, the British forces gathered up all Garifuna with an African appearance, separated them from those with a more indigenous appearance, and forcibly relocated them from the island of Baliceaux. A mere fifty percent of the travelers made it to their final destinations in Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize.

Communities formed by the group in the west-southern regions of the nation persisted for the following two centuries. Since then, orations concerning the Garifuna settlement have been transmitted across generations. Belize acknowledges the distinctive culture and unfettered spirit of its citizens through this commitment. In 1941, when civil rights crusader Thomas Vincent Ramos initiated a campaign to honor the Garifuna people residing in Belize, the day gained widespread recognition. The day was officially designated as Garifuna Settlement Day and commenced as an annual national holiday by the government several decades later.

On November 19, a wave of yellow, black, and white hues envelops the nation as individuals manifest their jubilation and gratitude towards the Garifuna people. Commencing the day with ceremonial boat trips on Maya Island, the festivities progress to carnival parades that draw spectators adorned in the customary Garifuna garments.

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