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Episode 21: Beyond the Narrative: The Garifuna American Law Enforcement Association, Inc.

Host: José Francisco Ávila

The Garifuna Experience in NYC Podcast goes "Beyond the Narrative" to highlight the powerful impact of The Garifuna American Law Enforcement Association, Inc. (GALEA).

Join host José Francisco Ávila as he explores how GALEA—a non-profit founded in 2017 by NYPD's Police Officer Jorge Rochez and Detective Sidney Valerio—is changing the landscape of public service in New York City.

Inside This Episode:

• Service and Unity: Discover how members of Garifuna heritage across various agencies (NYPD, FDNY, NYC Corrections, and more) united to form a beacon of support and cultural pride.
• Mission to Bridge: We break down GALEA's vital mission to strengthen relationships between the Garifuna community and law enforcement through outreach, cultural awareness, and mutual respect.
• Leadership Spotlight: Get to know GALEA President Stivin Benedith and the organization's dedication to mentorship, advocacy, and professional development.
• Legacy Building: Learn why joining GALEA is an investment in your career, your culture, and the future of Garifuna representation, driving Power, Prosperity, and Progress in the diaspora.

Tune in to hear how our community members are serving, protecting, and championing Garifuna identity in the heart of NYC's civic life. 

Resources:

•  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app
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• The Garifuna Experience Podcast YouTube
• The Garífuna Experience in NYC | Bronx walking tour
• The Garifuna Experience in NYC 
• The Happy Land Memorial Walking Tour 
• Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxNet Video)
• Garifuna-American in Law Enforcement Association Inc 

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