In November�be one with the Garinagu of Belize

The Garinagu are a resilient group of people that dominate the most southern part of Belize. Their music, food, practices and beliefs are rich; tracing back to the long journey and struggle that their ancestors endured over the centuries.

Today, the modern Garinagu annually reenact that long historical journey when their ancestors landed as slaves to this region and intermarried with the Arawak Indians of the West Indies region. This culture is vibrant and dominates the ethnic heart of the country with the month of November in Belize looking back at the past while celebrating the present rich traditions of these people. Today, like many other ethnic groups the Garinagu struggle to keep their culture alive. In recognition of the important Garinagu history in Belize the 19th of November is celebrated annually as National Garifuna Settlement Day countrywide with a public and bank holiday granted.

As the 19th of November approaches, many of the Garinagu settlements are filled with the sounds of the rhythm of the drums.

The drums are handmade from cedar and mahogany, with dried deer skin stretched tautly, ready for the continuous drumming that brings the unique African beat alive in the various communities. The drumming is always complimented with the "shaka" which is a rattle made from the gourd tree, special seeds and a hard wood handle. Often times, women join the men in the singing and dancing. Today, the drumming, singing and dancing are an integral part of most Garinagu celebration.

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