Garifuna Settlement Day Preparations Intensify Across Belize

Belize is getting ready for one of the most anticipated cultural celebrations of the year. The Garifuna Settlement Day is celebrated on November 19, a celebration founded by Thomas Vincent Ramos. Unlike other public and bank holidays, the community, along with the Garifuna council, come together to host several activities leading up to the occasion.  To gain insight into this year’s preparations, Sharon Valentine Castillo, Assistant Treasurer of the Dangriga Branch of the National Garifuna Council, spoke to Love News. 

Following the upcoming events over the weekend leading to the 19^th, there is also the annual Classic Cycling competition. This will take place on Sunday, when many riders from across the country come together not only to compete but to celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day. Moses Lopez, the annual organizer, tells us more. 

Thomas Vincent Ramos, widely known as T.V. Ramos, was one of Belize’s most important Garifuna leaders and a national cultural icon.  Thomas Vincent Ramos (1887–1955) was a Garifuna civil rights activist, community leader, and cultural advocate from Punta Gorda, Belize. He is best remembered for founding the annual celebration of Garifuna Settlement Day, now a national holiday celebrated on November 19.