Árübana means Green

Árübana Retreat stands amidst the verdant landscapes of St. Vincent, carrying a name that echoes our commitment to both sustainability and cultural heritage. In this narrative, we embark on a transformative journey, reclaiming the stolen treasures of the Garifuna people and breathing life back into our rich traditions. With unwavering determination, we strive to revitalize our ancestral culture, and in doing so, forge a path towards a greener and more vibrant future.

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Centuries ago, when European colonizers set foot on the shores of St. Vincent, they encountered a resilient and fiercely independent community, the Garifuna people. Descendants of African slaves who intermingled with indigenous Caribs, the Garifuna possessed a vibrant culture and a deep connection to the land. But the arrival of the colonizers marked the beginning of a tumultuous era, as they sought to impose their dominance and exploit the island's resources.

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Faced with the encroachment on their sacred land, the Garifuna people fiercely resisted, engaging in what became known as the Carib Wars. These courageous battles were a testament to their unyielding spirit, as they fought to protect their heritage and way of life. However, despite their valiant efforts, the Garifuna were eventually overpowered and forcibly removed from their homeland.

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The forced exile of the Garifuna people left a void a profound loss that echoes through the generations. Our cultural legacy was scattered across distant shores, and the connection to our ancestral traditions was severed. But as descendants of the Garifuna, we carry within us the indomitable spirit of our ancestors, and with it, a burning desire to reclaim what was stolen.

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In the face of adversity, we are reclaiming our roots, piecing together the fragments of our history, language, and customs. It is a journey of rediscovery, a journey that takes us back to our origins and igniting a sense of pride and belonging. Through cultural preservation and revitalization efforts, we strive to honour the resilience and wisdom of our Garifuna ancestors, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.

 

Árübana Retreat stands as a testament to our commitment to this cause. It is a space where the Garifuna culture finds its voice once more, a sanctuary where traditions are revived, language is spoken, and ancestral knowledge is passed on. Through Árübana, we aim to not only protect and preserve our heritage but also create a platform for cultural exchange and understanding.

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As we embark on this journey of reclaiming our stolen culture, we stand united, committed to reviving the spirit and essence of the Garifuna people. Together, we weave a tapestry of resilience, breathing life back into the stolen fragments of our past, and forging a vibrant future where our cultural treasures thrive once more.