Garifunas

The Garífunas are an Afro-indigenous ethnic group

that lives mainly in the coastal regions of Central
America, including countries such as Honduras,
Belize, Guatemala and Nicaragua. Its history and
culture are the result of the mixture between
Africans, indigenous Arawaks and Caribs.

History
When African slaves were shipwrecked or freed
on the island of St. Vincent in the Caribbean.
These Africans mixed with the indigenous Caribs
and Arawaks, forming a new community with a
different identity In 1797.

Tradition
Dügü: A spiritual ceremony to honor ancestors, including songs,
dances and community rituals.
Chugu: Similar to Dügü, but less elaborate, also dedicated to
appeasing the spirits of the ancestors.
Community Celebrations: The Garifuna celebrate various
festivities throughout the year, often with music, dance, and
traditional foods.

Religion
Its spirituality is a mixture of Catholicism and
African and indigenous beliefs, integrating
ancestral practices and rituals with Christian
teachings.

language
Garifuna originated from the mixture of indigenous
Arawak and Caribbean languages ​with African
influences, as a result of the encounter between
Africans who arrived in the Caribbean islands and
the indigenous inhabitants of those regions.

Clothing
The Garifunas often wear colorful costumes for
ceremonies and celebrations, reflecting both their
African heritage and their Caribbean environment.
Women can wear long skirts and embellished blouses,
while men can wear loose-fitting shirts and pants.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Garifuna culture is a rich amalgam of African, indigenous
and European influences, shaped by centuries of history and evolution.
From their origin on the island of Saint Vincent to their settlement on
the coasts of Central America, the Garifuna have preserved their
cultural identity through their traditions, language, music, dance,
gastronomy and community lifestyle.