The Garífuna's love of dance is legendary and deep-rooted in their history. During times of enslavement, dance allowed their ancestors to reaffirm their African heritage and to experience a momentary liberation from bondage. For the Garinagu today, dance still serves as an instrument to reclaim their cultural identity and to strengthen their community relations. It acts as a psychological release for a people who continue to be oppressed. But it is also a celebration of past victories and historical triumphs, which gives courage to the living in their daily struggles. It is performed at sacred rituals to commemorate Garífuna ancestors and to cure the sick. Dance also erupts spontaneously in the day-to-day chores of carrying goods, scaling fish, or building houses. It makes work more pleasurable and adds joy to social gatherings and holidays.

Related Links:

Honduras this Week (scroll down):
Artist helps Garífuna youth through dance, 3/2/98.
Barauda brings traditional Garífuna dances to Teguz, 3/16/98.
Easter means processions and dancing in Garífuna communities, 4/98.
From December to January, enjoy colorful Garífuna fairs, 12/7/98. Includes dances performed for Garífuna patron saint celebrations.

Garífuna World.
Garífuna Music. Overview of 12 Garífuna dances.
Juego de tiras Moros y Cristianos.