The Garifuna Experience Podcast

Jose Francisco Avila
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL

Mabuiga! Welcome to The Garifuna Experience Podcast — the definitive voice for the Garifuna Community.  GALENT Media & Publishing | The Garifuna Experience Podcast and Newsletter Editorial Mission Statement Overview: GALENT Media & Publishing is an independent news and multimedia organization dedicated to the primary newsgathering, reporting, and analysis of issues affecting the Garifuna and Afro-Latino diaspora. Through our flagship platform, The Garifuna Experience Podcast and Newsletter, we serve as a critical journalistic bridge between the global diaspora and the local civic landscapes of New York City and New York State. Our Journalistic Purpose Our mission is to amplify underrepresented voices through rigorous, authentic storytelling and investigative narratives that drive prosperity, power, and progress. We are committed to providing our audience with: Original Newsgathering: Primary coverage of legislative developments, civic initiatives (such as Census 2030), and community-led social movements.Accountability Journalism: Providing a platform for direct engagement with elected officials and candidates, specifically through our "2026 Election Spotlight" and "Know Your Representative" series.Cultural Advocacy: Reporting on the preservation of Garifuna language, landmarks, and economic equity within the multicultural fabric of New York. Editorial Integrity & Independence GALENT Media & Publishing operates under the principles of editorial independence. Our content is designed to educate, engage, and mobilize the Garifuna community toward informed civic participation. We do not engage in lobbying; our primary function is the dissemination of news and the cultivation of an informed public sphere for the Garifuna people and the broader Afro-descendant community. Subscribe today and help us keep the drums beating for generations to come.

  1. Episode 53 Script: New York City Campaign Finance Board’s 2025 Voter Analysis Report

    1D AGO

    Episode 53 Script: New York City Campaign Finance Board’s 2025 Voter Analysis Report

    Send us Fan Mail In local New York City politics, the margin of victory in a City Council primary can often come down to fewer than 3,000 votes. Your vote isn't just a drop in the bucket—it is the deciding factor. In this episode, host José Francisco Ávila breaks down the groundbreaking data from the New York City Campaign Finance Board’s (CFB) freshly released 2025 Voter Analysis Report. While NYC saw historic, record-breaking voter registration rates surpassing 94% and the highest general election turnout in over 50 years, a deeper look at the data reveals a persistent gap: voter turnout in the Bronx still lags behind the rest of the city at just 30.3%. What is keeping our community from the ballot box, and how do we fix it? José discusses the restrictive, confusing deadlines of New York's closed primary system and highlights how Garifuna VOICE (Garifuna Voice Voting and Organizing to Increase Civic Engagement) is hit-the-ground running in the South Bronx Corridor. Tune in to learn how we are turning "occasional voters" into "habitual voters," engaging our youth and new citizens, and pushing for common-sense policy reforms to make voting accessible for everyone. The future of our community is in our hands—and it is written on the ballot. Sungubei Lidan Aban (Together as one). Key Takeaways From This Episode: The 2025 Surge: How NYC surpassed a 94% voter registration rate and what drove 260,000 first-time voters to register.The Turnout Gap: Why the Bronx recorded the lowest turnout (30.3%) despite citywide historic highs, and why the CFB has labeled the South Bronx a "priority community district."Navigating the Deadlines: A breakdown of NYC's confusing voter deadlines (including the February 14th party enrollment cutoff) and the CFB's recommendation to align them.Garifuna VOICE in Action: How our nonpartisan civic empowerment campaign is targeting the South Bronx Corridor to build long-term political power.Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter Register To Vote Online for the June 23 Primary ElectionRequest a Ballot Application Online Find Your Pollsite and View a Sample BallotGarifuna CoalitionBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    10 min
  2. Episode 52: Strengthening Democracy Through Nonpartisan Voter Engagement

    MAY 19

    Episode 52: Strengthening Democracy Through Nonpartisan Voter Engagement

    Send us Fan Mail Is your voice being heard, or have you been labeled an "unlikely voter"? In this powerful episode of The Garifuna Experience Podcast, host José Francisco Ávila pulls back the curtain on the "participation gap" that has historically sidelined immigrant communities, youth, and people of color. We dive deep into the political "feedback loop" that ignores non-voters and explain why nonpartisan outreach is the ultimate tool for democratic resistance. Learn how the Garifuna Coalition is utilizing its 501(c)(3) status to break this cycle, build "civic muscle," and ensure our community isn't just a checkbox on a census form, but a force at the ballot box. In this episode, we discuss: The "Unlikely Voter" Myth: How political campaigns ignore new voters and how we are changing that narrative.Nonpartisan vs. Paartisan: Why being independent of party loyalty allows us to be louder on the issues that matter.Garifuna VOICE: A breakdown of our five strategic pillars, from Year-Round Registration, the 2030 Censusand Data Equity to Redistricting Advocacy.Youth & Digital Activism: Bridging ancestral heritage with modern political power for Gen Z and Millennials.Our vote is our voice, and our voice is our power. Tune in to learn how we are transforming the electorate to reflect the true diversity of the communities we serve. In this episode, we discuss: The New York Connection: Why "smug" New Yorkers shouldn't ignore this ruling, and a look back at the "political trickery" that once required federal oversight in Brooklyn and the Bronx.The Shirley Chisholm Legacy: How the VRA paved the way for the first Black woman in Congress, and how those same districts are now at risk.Voices of Defiance: Hard-hitting reactions from leaders at NALEO, UnidosUS, and LULAC.The 2026 Action Plan: How we can fight back through state-level legislation and local vigilance at the ballot box.As we approach the 2026 midterms, the message is clear: We will not be silenced by judicial fiat. Our vote is our voice, and our voice is our power. Resources:  Subscribe on your favorite podcast appSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter Register To Vote Online for the June 23 Primary ElectionRequest a Ballot Application Online Find Your Pollsite and View a Sample BallotGarifuna CoalitionBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    7 min
  3. Episode 51: The Numbers of Erasure: 70 Million Voices Under Threat

    MAY 12

    Episode 51: The Numbers of Erasure: 70 Million Voices Under Threat

    Send us Fan Mail The landscape of American democracy shifted fundamentally in April 2026. With the Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling in Louisiana v. Callais, the primary shield against discriminatory redistricting—Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), has been functionally dismantled. But this isn't just a "Southern issue." In this episode, host José Francisco Ávila breaks down why the "gutting" of the VRA is a direct threat to the Garifuna diaspora and minority communities from the Bronx to the Bayou. We dive into the "Numbers of Erasure"—revealing why 70 million eligible voters and nearly 30% of the Congressional Black Caucus are now in the crosshairs of political gerrymandering. In this episode, we discuss: The New York Connection: Why "smug" New Yorkers shouldn't ignore this ruling, and a look back at the "political trickery" that once required federal oversight in Brooklyn and the Bronx.The Shirley Chisholm Legacy: How the VRA paved the way for the first Black woman in Congress, and how those same districts are now at risk.Voices of Defiance: Hard-hitting reactions from leaders at NALEO, UnidosUS, and LULAC.The 2026 Action Plan: How we can fight back through state-level legislation and local vigilance at the ballot box.As we approach the 2026 midterms, the message is clear: We will not be silenced by judicial fiat. Our vote is our voice, and our voice is our power. Resources:  Subscribe on your favorite podcast appSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter Register To Vote Online for the June 23 Primary ElectionRequest a Ballot Application Online Find Your Pollsite and View a Sample BallotGarifuna CoalitionBooks by José Francisco Ávila ·       Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    8 min
  4. Episode 50: The Census, Redistricting, the Supreme Court, and the Fight for Garifuna Representation

    MAY 5

    Episode 50: The Census, Redistricting, the Supreme Court, and the Fight for Garifuna Representation

    Send us Fan Mail How do Supreme Court rulings on redistricting directly impact the Garifuna Diaspora? In this milestone 50th episode of The Garifuna Experience Podcast, host José Francisco Ávila breaks down the critical intersection of the U.S. Census, voting rights, and the fight for fair Afro-Indigenous representation. We dive deep into the recent 6–3 Supreme Court ruling that struck down Louisiana’s second majority-Black congressional district, dismantling vital protections of the Voting Rights Act. While this may seem like a local legal battle, it has massive, seismic implications for distinct cultural communities across the nation. In this episode, we discuss: Garifuna VOICE: Our strategic roadmap to the table of political power.The 2031–2032 Redistricting Process: Why we need a dedicated Task Force to prevent the fragmentation of our communities.The High Stakes of the Voting Rights Act: How the dilution of minority votes directly impacts critical issues like immigration reform, language access, economic equity, and healthcare.Our democracy is not self-executing—it requires continuous action. Tune in to learn how we can mobilize, protect our identity, and ensure that our voices are heard at the highest levels of government. Take Action: Organize: Support local grassroots organizations fighting gerrymandering and voter suppression.Mobilize: Check your voter registration status and show up for local, state, and national elections.Advocate: Join the Garifuna Complete Count Committee to make sure that The Garifuna Demographic is counted, so that we can be represented. Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter The Happy Land Memorial Walking TourThe Garifuna Experience in NYC Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxGarifuna CoalitionBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    9 min
  5. Episode 49: Garifuna VOICE, Voting and Organizing to Increase Civic Engagement

    APR 28

    Episode 49: Garifuna VOICE, Voting and Organizing to Increase Civic Engagement

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Garifuna Experience Podcast, host José Francisco Ávila unveils a bold blueprint for the Garifuna community to move from the margins of New York City politics to the center of the table. As we approach the historic 2032 centennial of Garifuna arrival in NYC, we are transitioning from a "hidden demographic" to a decisive Political Power Bloc. José introduces Garifuna VOICE (Voting and Organizing to Increase Civic Engagement), a non-partisan initiative designed to transform "occasional voters" into a disciplined, habitual force. In this episode, we discuss: The "Kingmaker" Strategy: How a unified bloc of 100,000 Garinagu in the South Bronx can decide the margin of victory in key City Council and State Assembly districts.Overcoming Apathy: Addressing the historical and cultural reasons behind political hesitancy and how to reclaim our power in the diaspora.The 2030 Mandate: Why the upcoming Census and Redistricting are the most important battles for our "Afro-Indigenous" soul and federal resources.Engaging Gen Z & Millennials: Why Garifuna heritage isn't just a relic of the past, but the engine for our political future.It’s time to move from Advocacy to Accountability. We aren’t just asking for a seat at the table—we are building the room. Listen now and join the movement. Stay United, Stay Proud. Sungubei Lidan Aban. Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter The Happy Land Memorial Walking TourThe Garifuna Experience in NYC Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxGarifuna CoalitionBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    7 min
  6. Episode 48: Generations of Change: The 100-Year March to Garifuna Representation

    APR 21

    Episode 48: Generations of Change: The 100-Year March to Garifuna Representation

    Send us Fan Mail In this landmark episode of The Garifuna Experience Podcast, host José Francisco Ávila traces the arc of a century—from the first wave of migration in 1932 to the strategic vision for 2032. For nearly 100 years, the Garifuna community has been a vibrant cultural pillar of New York City, yet often remained "hidden in plain sight." In Episode 48, we explore the critical transition from community activism to electoral power. We revisit the painful origins of the 1930s migration, the hard-won lessons of the first Garifuna-American political campaigns, and the historic milestone of Rosemary Ordonez-Jenkins. Join us as we break down the 2030 Garifuna Representation Goal and discuss why moving from a "Hidden demographic" to a "unified political power bloc" is the key to securing equitable resources and ensuring our Afro-Indigenous voices shape the future of New York. In this episode, you’ll hear about: The Historical Spark: How political turmoil in 1932 launched the Garifuna journey to the U.S.Lessons from the Ring: An honest look at the "doomed" 2010 campaign and the vital role of campaign committees.The Blueprint for Success: How the Garifuna Roundtable is identifying "gateways" to insider politics.The Road to 2032: Our strategic vision for the Garifuna centennial in New York City.Tune in to discover how we are building civic capacity and long-term sustainability for the next generation of Garifuna leaders. Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appApple Podcasts SpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter The Happy Land Memorial Walking TourThe Garifuna Experience in NYC Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    10 min
  7. Episode 47: The Garifuna Caucus: The Case for Garifuna Representation

    APR 14

    Episode 47: The Garifuna Caucus: The Case for Garifuna Representation

    Send us Fan Mail In this hard-hitting investigative episode, host José Francisco Ávila pulls back the curtain on the political reality of the Garifuna community in New York City. For nearly a century, the Garifuna people have enriched the fabric of the Bronx and beyond with vibrant culture and resilience. But as we approach the 2030 centennial of the Garifuna establishment in NYC, a glaring question remains: Where is our seat at the table? We move beyond the "Three Cs"—Costumes, Cuisine, and Celebrations—to demand Accountability. Despite a population of 250,000 in New York State, why has there been only one Garifuna individual elected to local office in 94 years? In this episode, we explore: The Congressional Garifuna Caucus: An investigation into the first-ever caucus of its kind. Is it a powerhouse for change or a committee in name only?The Gatekeepers & Allies: The roles of Congressman Ritchie Torres and Assemblymember Karines Reyes, and the tireless advocacy of Bronx icon Mirtha Colón.The Road to 2030: A direct call to action for Millennials and Gen Z to move from the sidelines to the ballot box.It’s time to shift the strategy from being "celebrated" to being a "represented" in the budget deliberations. Join us as we map out the journey from visibility to true political empowerment. Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appApple Podcasts SpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter The Happy Land Memorial Walking TourThe Garifuna Experience in NYC Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxU.S. Congressman Ritchie Torres And Garifuna Activist, Mrs. Mirtha Colon, Create Garifuna Caucus (Being Garifuna)Books by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    12 min
  8. Episode 46: The Midterm Elections – Why Every Two Years Matters

    APR 7

    Episode 46: The Midterm Elections – Why Every Two Years Matters

    Send us Fan Mail While the Presidential election gets the "big stage" every four years, the real engine of community change runs on a two-year cycle. In this essential explainer episode of The Garifuna Experience, host José Francisco Ávila breaks down the mechanics of the Midterm Elections and why they are the ultimate tool for Garifuna political accountability. Many of us are busy with work and family, asking: "Does my one vote even count in an 'off-year'?" The answer is a resounding yes. Because turnout is typically lower in Midterms, the organized Garifuna vote in the Bronx becomes a massive "power multiplier" that can shift the direction of the entire state. In this episode, we break down: The Ballot Blueprint: From all 435 U.S. House seats to the critical state legislators in our Districts.Checks and Balances: How Midterms act as a steering wheel to balance the power of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.The "Everyday" Impact: Why Midterm results decide the funding for SNAP benefits, school budgets, childcare, and transit—the issues that hit our kitchen tables every single day.Your Action Roadmap: Practical steps to take before, during, and after the election to move Board of Elections in the City of New YorkNew York State Board of ElectionsThe Midterms aren't a distraction—they are the decision. Join us as we demystify the process and prepare the Garifuna diaspora to be the "tiebreaker" in the 2026 cycle. Resources: Subscribe on your favorite podcast appApple Podcasts SpotifyiHeartRadioYouTubeAmazon MusicSubscribe to our newsletter The Happy Land Memorial Walking TourThe Garifuna Experience in NYC Garifuna Heritage Walking Tour (BronxBooks by José Francisco Ávila Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride:: My Quest for Racial, Ancestral, Ethnic and Cultural Identity

    8 min
See All (63)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Mabuiga! Welcome to The Garifuna Experience Podcast — the definitive voice for the Garifuna Community.  GALENT Media & Publishing | The Garifuna Experience Podcast and Newsletter Editorial Mission Statement Overview: GALENT Media & Publishing is an independent news and multimedia organization dedicated to the primary newsgathering, reporting, and analysis of issues affecting the Garifuna and Afro-Latino diaspora. Through our flagship platform, The Garifuna Experience Podcast and Newsletter, we serve as a critical journalistic bridge between the global diaspora and the local civic landscapes of New York City and New York State. Our Journalistic Purpose Our mission is to amplify underrepresented voices through rigorous, authentic storytelling and investigative narratives that drive prosperity, power, and progress. We are committed to providing our audience with: Original Newsgathering: Primary coverage of legislative developments, civic initiatives (such as Census 2030), and community-led social movements.Accountability Journalism: Providing a platform for direct engagement with elected officials and candidates, specifically through our "2026 Election Spotlight" and "Know Your Representative" series.Cultural Advocacy: Reporting on the preservation of Garifuna language, landmarks, and economic equity within the multicultural fabric of New York. Editorial Integrity & Independence GALENT Media & Publishing operates under the principles of editorial independence. Our content is designed to educate, engage, and mobilize the Garifuna community toward informed civic participation. We do not engage in lobbying; our primary function is the dissemination of news and the cultivation of an informed public sphere for the Garifuna people and the broader Afro-descendant community. Subscribe today and help us keep the drums beating for generations to come.

Information

  • Creator
    Jose Francisco Avila
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Garifuna Experience Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Garifuna Experience Podcast