Garifuna Institute for Research and
Indigenous Understanding
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GARIU
Established by Dr. Enita Barrett,The Garifuna Institute for Research and Indigenous Understanding (GARIU), is a registered Non-Profit Organization that is deeply committed to the preservation, promotion, and education of the unique and fascinating cultural heritage of the Garifuna people, a community that has a rich history and a vibrant, dynamic culture. Established in 2023, GARIU has made significant strides in its mission to advance the understanding of Garifuna culture, history, and traditions through research, education, and outreach. With the support of our dedicated team of scholars, educators, and community leaders, we are actively working to ensure that the traditions of the Garifuna people continue to thrive for generations to come. Join us in celebrating the rich and diverse culture of the Garifuna people, and help us in our efforts to create a brighter future for this incredible community!
Intranation Scholarship
We’re working on a scholarship program to help expand our outreach to our students.
Skilled Lecturers
We have qualified Garifuna native and other instructors.
GariU Classes Schedule
Download the GarIU Class Sessions schedule below.
Indigenous Peoples of the Region
Indigenous peoples are culturally distinct ethnic groups whose members are directly descended from the earliest known inhabitants of a particular geographic region and, to some extent, maintain the language and culture of those original peoples. Peoples are usually described as “Indigenous” when they maintain traditions or other aspects of an early culture that is associated with the first inhabitants of a given region
GARIU Programs
Online and Face-face Courses.
GARIU offers a variety of relevant online and in-person courses to promote Garifuna culture and education in the diaspora
Annual Garifuna Language and Culture Summer Camp (GLCSC)
Held every July, this camp provides immersive experiences in Garifuna language, cultural practices and citizenship.
Indigenous Youth Progress Nest (IYPN)
This program tracks 60 students through their high school journey, offering financial, socio-emotional, and other support to reduce the risk of failure or dropping out.
An annual conference for these students is held every June.
Free Teacher Training
In response to teachers losing their licenses due to a lack of CPD credits, GARIU provides training at schools in Seine Bight, George Town, and Hopkins to help educators maintain their certifications.
Tuba Bouda Tutoring and Homework Hub
Many homes in our Garifuna villages lack internet connectivity, which limits students’ ability to complete homework assignments requiring online research. To address this, GARIU established the Tuba Bouda Homework Hub, located at a central village property owned by the GARIU Founder. The hub offers students access to the internet, laptops, and homework assistance, with support from teachers and parents who volunteer to staff the facility. We currently need additional laptops and funds to cover the monthly internet costs to ensure the hub remains operational.
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Around The Region
Featured Stories
of the West Indies, Jamaica
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Gariu Knowledge Base Repository
A Knowledge Repository or Portal for Indigenous Peoples Issues and relevant Stakeholder
