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The Garifuna community in New York City is on a mission to shift from a community of presence to a community of power.

Host José Francisco Ávila dives into the critical importance of increasing Garifuna political visibility and influence, arguing that a seat at the decision-making table is non-negotiable for securing resources and fighting systemic challenges.

Hear about the Garifuna political trailblazers—like Rosemary Ordonez-Jenkins and Gustavo Santos—who are opening doors. More importantly, learn about the ambitious, community-wide strategic plan to achieve local political representation in New York by the centennial year of 2030.

This episode lays out why every vote matters, detailing the need for a unified Garifuna front—a Grand Coalition of non-profits, cultural groups, essential workers, and faith-based organizations—to launch the Voting is POWER - Garifuna Representation 2030 Campaign.

Tune in to understand why Garifuna representation is the key to driving Power, Prosperity, and Progress for the entire community.

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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)

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