 Lachamuru Jerry Castro_Liyawa Lidani Garifuna Times Magazine
They began in September of 2002 by exposing their dilema at the
2002 ONECA Conference in New York. From there, the Foundation of
Garifuna Artist in New York has been on a campaign blitz to inform the entire
New York community about current problems facing Garifuna artists in
New York.
"It's apparent that one of the main problems we have is that there
isn't a place we can do business from," says FUNARGARI's President, J. King.
"And in order to do that, we shall get our heads straight and look at how
we can solve this problem."
During the last month and a half, the organization has met at the
"pentagon" to sort out their problems and solutions. However, they had to reach
out to a previous organization who had started the ground work in forming a
Union: Garifuna United.
On November 3rd, in a chilly New York afternoon, both organizations met to
discuss their differences, they were committed to work hand-in-hand in the most
anticipated event of December 2002. They will coordinate the Benefit Concert where
most of their bands will partcipate.
"It really doesn't matter which group we are on," said Eddie Gregorio,
Vice President of Garifuna United. "As long as we are Garifuna, musicians
and have problems, there shouldn't be a delay on what we are trying to
accomplish." The meeting was attended by Garifuna celebrities, Dixon Marin, Gadu Nunez
and Ervin Arzu.
"This is a positive move," said Ervin "DJ" Arzu who recently released
his "Gold-like" album. "You have my support and participation to strengthen
the movement," he continued.
The event is scheduled for December 24th at Hermandad Dominicana.
Invitations to leaders, business representatives and the community at large have
been mailed. Lidani Garifuna Times Magazine will help coordinate online,
newspaper and tv promotions for this event.
Garifuna composer and Music celebrity, Aurelio Martinez will sit with
the group in his visit to New York in the second week of November.
In the 21st Century, our voices will reach higher grounds.
Lidani Garifuna Times
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