Conversations with Cheryl Noralez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheryl Noralez.

Hi Cheryl, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I founded Garifuna American Heritage Foundation United (GAHFU) in 2005. Although I worked with other community organizations prior to establishing GAHFU. I felt there was a need to emerge from the shadow to education the general public about the Garifuna people, our history and culture. Also, I felt like my own Garifuna people were losing or becoming confused about their own identity and I wanted to remind them about their rich and unique history. I especially that it was important for the younger generation to learn about their history. There was not an organization that focused on educating people about Garifuna language, culture or history and I had the idea to create a non-profit organization which focuses on the above mentioned. GAHFU’s primary mission is to empower and educate people about the rich history and values of Garifuna culture, preserving and disseminating it to re-acculturate the next generation. GAHFU has done so much towards achieving its mission in the last twenty years. There is so much to list. GAHFU has evolved from just educating but also advocating for the Garifuna people to be seen and included. As an underserved group it is important to have a voice and a presence whenever possible and GAHFU makes an effort to always represent, to advocate for the Garifuna people and culture.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it has not been a smooth ride. The main struggle has been to be seen and to be able to identify as Garifuna. Generally, we are placed in a generic box based on the outer layer of our skin that we are labeled Black/African American or our country of origin that we are labeled Afro-Latino which we are neither. We/I am Garifuna and that is the community and people which I represent. Garifuna people are distinct having Native American lineages of the Arawak, Kalina (Carib) and African explorers. However, we are an ignored and overlooked people due to the general lack of knowledge of our heritage.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I would describe myself as cultural barrier, cultural activists, and educator. I specialize in preserving and educating people about the Garifuna people, culture, language, and history. I am proud of being able to have been welcomed to various institutions of higher learner to share the history about my Garifuna people. What sets apart from others is that GAHFU has worked with the Garifuna diaspora including Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and St. Vincent not just in the United States.

What matters most to you?
What matters to me the most is preserving the Garifuna identity, culture and language.

Contact Info:

• Website: www,gahfu.org
• Youtube: GAHFU Channel