The Voice of the Taino People Online

Annual United Nations Indigenous Peoples Forum begins

2013-05-21T12:45:00.002-04:00

Some of the Caribbean Indigenous representatives at the United Nations Permanent Forum in 2013. From left Damon Corrie (Lokono), R. Mukaro Borrero (Taino), Tai AnaYuisa Pelli (Taino), Hatuey Corrie (Lokono)

United Nations (UCTP Taino News) - Over 2000 representatives of Indigenous Peoples have registered and are expected to attend the 12^th session of United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. The Forum opened on 20 May and will close on May 2012. Some of the themes to be discussed include culture, education and health, as well as youth, Indigenous Peoples of Africa and international financial institutions. The session opened with a welcome blessing by Todadaho Sid Hill, a traditional Chief of the Onondaga Nation, part of the Six Nations or Iroquois Confederacy.

A message from the Secretary General Ban Ki Moon was delivered by Wu Hongbo, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. The message stressed that “We must have a better understanding of the views and values of indigenous peoples by engaging them in decision-making and providing a platform for issues affecting their lives and livelihoods.”

The Forum also elected a new chairperson, Paul Kanyinke Sena, who will facilitate the two-week session. A Maasai from Kenya, Sena stated in his opening address that Indigenous concepts of health and healing includes not only access without discrimination to social and health services, but also includes connections with family, land and language, as well as access to traditional plants, animals and minerals.

Other opening remarks were presented by the Vice-President of the UN General Assembly, Abulkalam Abdul Momen and the President of the UN Economic, Social and Economic Council (ECOSOC), Néstor Osorio.

Among the diverse participants of this year’s session representatives of Caribbean Indigenous Peoples such as the Lokono Arawak, Carib, and Taino are in attendance. The United Confederation of Taino People, for example, has accredited a number of delegates from throughout the Caribbean region including Borikén (Puerto Rico), Barbados, and Guyana.

Along with the various discussions and debates taking place during the week, a number of side-events on related-issues will take place in and around United Nations Headquarters.

UCTP Taino News 05.21.2013

Information Note for Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations on the Twelfth Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

2013-05-13T10:38:00.000-04:00

We welcome you to New York for the twelfth session, which starts on 20 May 2013 and ends on 31 May 2013. The attachment to this letter provides an outline of matters pertaining to the session.

We are pleased to announce that the renovations of most of the Conference Rooms at the United Nations Headquarters are almost completed. The opening of the session will be held in the General Assembly Hall and will commence at 11am. In the afternoon and for the rest of the session, the meeting will be in Trusteeship Council Chamber.

The twelfth session of the Permanent Forum will be significant because it is the Permanent Forum’s review year with special emphasis on the implementation of UNPFII recommendations on: (i) health; (ii) education; and (iii) culture.

Also, based on its methodology of organizing in-depth dialogues with UN agencies, the Forum will hold a dialogue with the World Bank; Asian Development Bank; African Development Bank; Inter-American Development Bank and the International Finance Corporation.

The special regional focus of the Forum will be on indigenous peoples in Africa. A half-day discussion will be devoted to this region.

Other features of the Forum’s twelfth session will include Human Rights, the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples (2014), Discussions on the Post 2015 Development Agenda and discussions on a number of studies completed this year by members of the Permanent Forum.

We take this opportunity to draw your attention to the preparatory meeting of the Indigenous Global Caucus on the weekend before the Permanent Forum session 18 – 19 May 2013. As in previous years, the meeting will take place on the 2nd floor of the Church Center for the United Nations at 777 UN Plaza (corner of East 44th Street and 1st Avenue), across the street from the main entrance to the United Nations.

Also, the Global Indigenous Women's Caucus meeting will take place on Friday 17 May 2013 from 9am to 5pm. The meeting will take place on the 2nd floor of the Church Centre for the United Nations at 777 UN Plaza (corner of East 44th Street and 1st Avenue), across the street from the main entrance to the United Nations.

The Indigenous Youth Caucus Preparatory Meeting for the twelfth Session will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2013, 9am to 6pm at 1 East 42nd Street, 2th Floor, New York, NY 10017

A meeting with Indigenous Journalists to strategize on the World Conference on Indigenous peoples (2014) will take place on Wednesday 22 May between 10am – 11am in Conference Room C. For further information contact Nilla Bernardi on Wednesday 22 May between 10am – 11am in Conference Room C. For further information contact Nilla Bernardi on

One important note – all registrations for new Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations and Academics are now closed. Please be advised you must be pre-registered in order to attend the Forum. You must also bring your confirmation letter and a photo ID such as a passport or driver’s licence to the Registration desk.

Registration times will be:
Sunday 19 May 12:00 -17:00
Monday 20 May 08:30 -12:30 & 14.00 -15.45
Tuesday 21 May 09.00 - 12.30 & 14.00 – 15.45
Wednesday 22 May to Friday 31 May (remainder of the Session) 09:30 - 12:30 & 14.00 – 15.45

The Registration Desk will be closed from 12:30 p.m. to 14:00 p.m. Participants attending only side-events should register in the morning before those events take place.

Warm regards,
The Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Secretariat: Chandra, Anna, Arturo, Bertha, Broddi, Daniel,Joshua, Luz, Martin, Mirian, Nilla, Olga, Samantha, Sonia, Upatissa

Passing of a Lokono Arawak Matriarch

2013-05-05T20:38:00.004-04:00

Barbados (UCTP Taino News) – Eagle Clan Lokono-Arawak matriarch Hannah Mariah Corbin crossed over into the Spirit World on Saturday, May 4, 2013. She was 99 year old. Grandmother Hannah Corbin was the sole surviving child of Guyana born, Eagle Clan Lokono-Arawak Princess Marian, daughter of hereditary Chief Amorotahe Haubariria (Flying Harpy Eagle) of Guyana. Among her surviving relatives are children Daphne, Cecil, Audrey, Judith, and Cheryl, as well 22 grandchildren, including renowned Caribbean Indigenous Rights advocate Damon Gerard Corrie.

UCTPTTN 05.05.2013

UN Human Rights Committee will Question U.S. on Sacred Sites and FPIC

2013-04-30T12:57:00.000-04:00

THE UN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE WILL QUESTION THE UNITED STATES ABOUT INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ SACRED AREAS AND FREE PRIOR AND INFORMED CONSENT IN THEIR UPCOMING REVIEW OF U.S. COMPLIANCE WITH THE INTERNATIONAL COVENANT ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS

April 25^th, 2013: The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a multilateral treaty adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly on December 16, 1966. It went into legal force on March 23^rd, 1976. The United States of America is one of the 167 countries, called the “State parties”, which have ratified the Covenant.

The ICCPR is legally binding on the State parties. State parties are required to undergo periodic reviews of their compliance with the Covenant, usually every 4 - 6 years. The UN Human Rights Committee (HRC) is the Treaty Monitoring Body for the ICCPR. The HRC conducts periodic reviews of the State parties and makes recommendations to the States about how to improve their compliance and better fulfill their legal obligations under the Covenant.

The HRC consists of 18 members representing all the UN regions. They are nominated and elected by the State parties to the Covenant. The HRC members are independent experts (not representatives of their respective countries) and serve in their individual capacities. For a list of current HRC members see: http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrc/members.htm.

Reports submitted by the State parties under review, provisional agendas and other relevant documents for the next session, including submissions by Civil Society and Indigenous Peoples, are posted on the UN Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights website, http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrc/. Recommendations and concluding observations of the HRC addressing the State parties’ compliance are also posted after the reviews.

During its 107^th session ending on March 28^th, 2013, the HRC determined the issues which will be the focus of their review of 8 countries at their 109^th session from October 14^th – November 1^st, 2013. The United States will be reviewed at that time. The list of issues for the US review is posted on the HRC web page, under 107^th session, information on the US.

In December 2012, the International Indian Treaty Council (IITC) and the United Confederation of Taino People, with input from Indigenous Peoples, Nations and organizations in California, Hawaii, Alaska and New Mexico, submitted two proposals for issues to be addressed during the US review. These focused on Article 1 of the Covenant addressing Self-Determination and Articles 18 and 27 addressing Language, Culture and Freedom of Religion for “minorities” and highlighted the relevant provisions in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (Note: as a UN Standard drafted in the 1960’s the term “Indigenous Peoples” was not used in the Covenant, however the HRC now uses this term).

The HRC accepted the recommendations submitted by IITC et al pertaining to Article 27 of the ICCPR, and has drafted questions for response by the US and Indigenous Peoples as follows:

27. Please provide information on measures taken to guarantee the protection of Indigenous Sacred Areas, as well as to ensure that indigenous peoples are consulted and that their free, prior and informed consent is obtained regarding matters that directly affect their interests. Please provide information on steps taken to implement Executive Order 13175 on Consultation and Coordination with Tribal Governments.

The HRC will accept alternative or “shadow” reports with information in response to these questions and related concerns from Indigenous Peoples, Nations, Tribes and organizations as well as from Civil Society. The alternative reports are due by September 1^st for the October session. The HRC requests information that is “as specific, reliable and objective as possible”, identifying the submitting non-governmental organization (NGO) or Peoples. Anonymous information is not accepted. Check the HRC web page on for additional information and guidelines on submissions by NGO’s and Indigenous Peoples.

IITC plans to co-coordinate submission of a joint Indigenous Peoples "shadow report" on threats to Indigenous Peoples sacred areas, cultural rights, the right to Free Prior and Informed Consent and other relevant concerns for the US review. On request, we will provide technical assistance and information to Indigenous Peoples and organizations who want to submit their information and issues as part of the IITC joint shadow report or on their own.

As a reminder, we are also preparing for the periodic review of the US by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), the Treaty monitoring Body for the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. The CERD will review the US again in early 2014, and we are beginning to work on those submissions as well. Contact IITC for information on that process, which will also address the protection of Indigenous Peoples Sacred Areas and Cultural Rights, Treaty rights, Environmental Racism and a number of other issues. IITC has an on-line handbook on using the CERD including its urgent action process which we will provide upon request.

If you are interested in receiving more information, scheduling a presentation or training, or contributing to the joint Indigenous Peoples shadow report for the HRC focusing on sacred areas, cultural rights and Free Prior and Informed Consent please contact:

IITC Legal Counsel Danika Littlechild, danika@treatycouncil.org

Consulting Attorney June L. Lorenzo (Southwest Sacred Areas),

junelorenzo@aol.com

IITC Executive Director Andrea Carmen, andrea@treatycouncil.org

IITC looks forward to working with you on this important opportunity to address issues of vital importance to Indigenous Peoples and to participate in an international process to hold the US accountable to their human rights obligations.

Latin America and the Caribbean Indigenous Peoples Prepare for World Conference

2013-04-12T00:06:00.000-04:00

Guatemala City, Guatemala (UCTP Taino News) – Indigenous Peoples from throughout Latin American and Caribbean are meeting in Guatemala to discuss and organize regional perspectives on the upcoming United Nations World Conference on Indigenous Peoples in 2014. Supported by the Government of Guatemala, This preparatory meeting began on April 11 with a Mayan blessing ceremony lead by Felix Sarazua, a Maya Spiritual Guide. The meeting will end on Saturday, April 13, 2013.

The Latin American and Caribbean Regional Preparatory Meeting for the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples is a part of a global preparatory process toward the United Nations General Assembly high-level plenary entitled the “World Conference on Indigenous Peoples,” scheduled to take September 2014. Some of the themes being discussed in Guatemala include the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; Indigenous perceptions of land and territories; the post-2015 UN Agenda; and the a strategic plan for the World Conference.

Among the invited delegates attending the meeting in Guatemala is Roberto Mukaro Borrero, President of the United Confederation of Taino People (UCTP). Borrero is representing the Confederation and the Caribbean Amerindian Development Organization (CADO).

“From the start of this process the UCTP and CADO have been concerned with the lack of effective participation of indigenous Caribbean Islanders during these important preparatory stages” stated Borrero. The UCTP and CADO jointly submitted their concerns to the Latin American and Caribbean Coordinating Committee as well as the Global Indigenous Women’s Caucus.

In its resolution (A/RES/66/296), the UN General Assembly decided that the High-level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly, to be known as the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples would be held on 22-23 September 2014 in New York at UN Headquarters. A goal of the World Conference is to share perspectives and best practices on the realization of the rights of Indigenous peoples, including to pursue the objectives of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

UCTPTN 04.12.2014

5th Annual Taino Awards

2013-04-09T14:05:00.000-04:00

Ponce de León, Exposed

2013-04-03T12:00:00.001-04:00

THIS week is the celebration of the 500th anniversary of Juan Ponce de León’s purported discovery of Florida. Commemorations include the unveiling of “The First Landing,” a larger-than-life statue of Ponce in Melbourne Beach, as well as the introduction by the Postal Service of “La Florida,” a four-stamp series timed to honor what is being presented as the founding moment in our country’s history. These celebrations are a fiesta of illusion...

Read the full story at UCTP Taino News

Cuban Natives Brought Jade from Guatemala

2013-04-03T11:35:00.001-04:00

Havana (Prensa Latina) - The Cuban aboriginal Tainos used jade probably introduced from Guatemala, as the geological record in eastern Cuba and the Dominican Republic show, Antonio Garcia Casco, of the University of Granada, Spain, stated. The professor, of the Department of Mineralogy and Petrology of that institution, has studied the geological traces showing the exchange of Taino peoples with the mainland for several years.

The evidence found up to now deny the image we have of these pre-Columbian peoples, as minor cultures, said Casco who works together with Reinier Rodriguez Ramos, an archaeologist at the University of Puerto Rico, Corinne Hofman, of the University of Leiden, in Netherlands, and experts from the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

The paper "Revealing the pre-Columbian routes of jade in the Caribbean: a case study in the forensic geology with geological and anthropological implications" was presented by Casco during the 5th Convention on Earth Sciences, Geociencia 2013.

As of year 400 B.C., Araucanian people came and brought ceramics using the Guatemalan jade, Casco said.

Source: Prensa Latina

R. Mukaro Borrero Special Guest on Two Worlds Indigenous Radio Show

2013-03-30T22:09:00.002-04:00

Tampa, Florida (UCTP Taíno News) – Taíno artist, historian, and community leader, R. Múkaro Borrero is the scheduled featured guest on Alvon Griffon’s Two Worlds Indigenous Radio Show this Sunday, March 31, 2013. The hour long broadcast begins at 10pm at WMNF 88.5 FM or online live at WMNF.ORG. This show will also be available online for one week at wmnf.org/programs/show/168. Every Sunday night, Two Worlds Indigenous Radio host Alvon Griffon shares the finest collection of Native American music from traditional Pow Wow style to the latest from contemporary Native artists, NAMMY nominees and winners. Two Worlds Indigenous Radio Show also features weekly Pow Wow reports, as well as news and views from across the continents.

UCTPTN 03.30.2013

Recognizing World Water Day 2013

2013-03-22T19:38:00.001-04:00

CARICOM SG: Chavez a true friend of Caribbean Community

2013-03-12T21:09:00.000-04:00

CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana - Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque has described the late President of Venezuela Hugo Chavez as a “true friend” of the Community.

In a message of condolence to the Government of Venezuela, the Secretary-General said that the late President Chavez, who died on Tuesday following a battle with cancer, “demonstrated solidarity with the Governments and People of the Caribbean Community throughout his tenure and created avenues for co-operation and strengthening relations with the Governments and improving the lives of the people.”

President Chavez with Jamaica Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller
photo by Jamaica Gleaner

Following is the full text of the Secretary-General’s message:

“It is with deep sadness that the Caribbean Community has learnt of the passing of a true friend, His Excellency Hugo Chavez, President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

President Chavez demonstrated solidarity with the Governments and People of the Caribbean Community throughout his tenure and created avenues for co-operation and strengthening relations with the Governments and improving the lives of the people.

His vision of bringing together the people of Latin America and the Caribbean was driven by his deep sense of concern for the well-being of the disadvantaged in society, not only in his own country but in the wider region.

His struggle with the disease that finally claimed his life epitomised the heart and spirit which he brought to bear in his attempts to raise the standard of living of the less fortunate in his homeland, in the Caribbean and the wider region.

I extend, on my own behalf and on that of the Caribbean Community, deepest condolences to the family of President Chavez and to the Government and People of Venezuela. I am confident that the strength and spirit of the Venezuelan people, so strikingly exemplified by President Chavez, will sustain the country in its time of grief.

May he rest in peace.”

Source: Overseas Review

Local Boriken Taíno Leader, Jose Xuerix Guaynia Camacho Passes into Koaibei

2013-03-08T13:01:00.000-05:00

Boriken (UCTP Taino News) - Respected singer and Boriken (Puerto Rico) tribal community leader of “Tainos Ciba-Ro Turey,” Jose “Xuerix Guaynia” Camacho closed his eyes and passed on to Koaibei (the Spirit World) after a long battle with cancer on Thursday.

Xuerix Camacho was a renowned “Doo Wop” crooner for "The Sentimentals," a Boriken-based 1960's singing group, popular for their renditions of romantic ballads and vocal harmonies. His artistic experience and natural leadership abilities led him to advocate for indigenous justice on the on the Island over the past 25 years. Xuerix participated in "El Grito de Kaguana", the 2005 community action that saw local Taíno leaders take over the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center to highlight the desecration of sacred sites in Boriken.

Xuerix also gained political notoriety confronting Senator Fonte on local television; when he questioned the elected official’s political support for zoning variances along San Juan oceanfront. The variances later proved to be disastrous to the environment, leading to Senator Fonte’s indictment and subsequent incarceration for numerous illegal political practices.

A proud supporter and registered member of the United Confederation of Taíno People (UCTP), Xuerix was often seen leading protest marches and participating in Taíno community gatherings, as well as educational awareness activities around the island. Xuerix Guaynia Camacho founded "Tainos Ciba-Ro Turey" to honor his Boriken Taíno ancestors.

He is survived by his beloved Mother, Margatita Garcia Rosado, and long-time companion, Moraika Sánchez.

Arrangements are being made for his viewing at Ehret Funeral Hall in Cupey.

UCTP Taíno News 03.08.2013

Brook Park Volunteer Day February 9

2013-02-02T10:24:00.000-05:00

South Bronx, NY (UCTP Taino News) - Since 2010, community organization Friends of Brook Park (FoBP) planted over 40 trees in the South Bronx area. Using volunteers, the plantings have taken place around Brook Park in an effort to create green corridors in the local community and leading to the Bronx waterfront. FoBP has called a Volunteer Day on Saturday, February 9^th to plant more trees in the South Bronx area near the park.

“This is a wonderful and necessary initiative” stated R. Mukaro Borrero, President of the United Confederation of Taino People. “We need more trees in our urban areas and the experience of planting and seeing the trees grow in the neighborhood is something positive for young people. It introduces them to the concept of stewardship – taking care of the land.”

Borrero notes that many Taino community members use the park regularly and he is calling on community members to consider assisting. Along with the tree-planting other park maintenance will taken place. No experience is necessary, but it is “welcome” as are tools and equipment. All ages are welcome and the start time is 10am till about 2pm at Brook Park at East 141st Street and Brook Avenue in the Bronx. Interested persons can contact FoBP’s Tree Planting Coordinator, Carol Zakaluk at carol@friendsofbrookpark.org.

UCTPTN 02.02.2013

Caribbean Amerindian Development Organization Established

2012-12-21T16:38:00.000-05:00

Dominica, West Indies (UCTP Taíno News) – December 9^th, 2012 marked another historic day in the annuals of the history of Caribbean Indigenous Peoples as it marked the founding of the Caribbean Amerindian Development Organisation (CADO). The founding board of this Caribbean-based initiative includes well-known members of the Lokono Arawak, Kalinago Carib, and the Taíno Indigenous Nations. The group will focus on various projects to restore and or promote the tangible and intangible Amerindian culture and heritage throughout the islands, and be registered officially as a non-profit in Watikubuli (Dominica), Eastern Caribbean.

A collective statement by CADO noted that “"We are coming together to bring benefits to our peoples as best as we can. Being traditionalists as we all are, 'Development' is understood by us to be that which restores as much of our tangible and intangible heritage as has been lost and ensuring that as much as possible of it is taken into the future in the hearts and minds of the generations yet unborn that will follow us down the red road of our ancestors."

CADO’s founding board highlights gender and regional balance with the following members Shirling Simon-Corrie (Lokono), Damon Corrie (Lokono), Louisette Auguiste (Kalinago), Irvince Auguiste (Kalinago), Migdalia Ma. Pellicier (Taíno), and Roberto Mukaro Borrero (Taíno). From their spiritual perspective, and in their Caribbean traditionalist Amerindian Cosmovision, the 3 tribal nations are of the same maternal umbilical cord/tree of life, with a base/roots in the Lokono South, a middle/ solid trunk in the Kalinago center, and top/crown; branches in the Taino North.

Members are all experienced indigenous rights advocates participating throughout the region locally, nationally, and internationally at such forums as the United Nations and the Organization of American States. Justifiably, the CADO motto is "Dedicated to the Preservation and Promotion of Amerindian Cultural Heritage, and the Implementation of Internationally Recognized Rights of Indigenous Peoples"

The groups contends that while it is well known that Caribbean Indigenous Peoples were the first to suffer “historical colonialism's cruel fate,” they are the “least listened to” of all Indigenous Peoples in the Western hemisphere. CADO members also affirm that Amerindians still suffer the effects of present-day neo-colonialism in the Caribbean, which continues to ignore indigenous existence or marginalize contemporary communities and organizations. From the perspective of its founding members, CADO’s regional perspective emphasizes, not only the spirit of resistance to assimilation, but also of the calls for Caribbean Amerindian unity. As such, the founders of CADO plan to move forward as “one blood, one mind, and one spirit.”

As Bob Marley prophesied, “as it was in the beginning, so shall it be in the end.”

UCTPTN 12.21.2012

Taino Peoples Continue to Unify in the Caribbean

2012-12-12T12:51:00.002-05:00

St. Thomas, USVI (UCTP Taino News) - Opia Taino of St. Thomas and the United Confederation of Taino People adopted a Declaration of Unity on Sunday, December 2^nd at Magens Bay, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The historic treaty was ratified in a special ceremony by Maekiaphan and Tesroy Phillips and other members of the local Taino and Carib community represented by Opia Taino and Roberto Mukaro Borrero, representing the United Confederation of Taino People (UCTP).

“This is a significant moment in our collective history” stated Borrero. “We are affirming and honoring our ancestral connections across the region in an effort to promote our ancient Indigenous heritage to our present and future generations.”

Maekiaphan Phillips agreed stating, “I personally feel that the signing of this treaty was extremely important and significant, not only by words but by documentation so that we secure not only our past, but protect our future generations, and dismiss the myth that Taino People are extinct.“

She continued, noting that “The signing of the Treaty out at Magens Bay, an actual ancient Amerindian site here in the Virgin Islands, displayed the utmost respect for our ancestors”

Senator-elect Myron Jackson, Maekiaphan Phillips, Roberto Boreero, Tesory Phillips, Ayesha Morris, and local children take part in the treaty signing in Magens Bay, St. Thomas.

Also in attendance were Senator-elect, the honorable Myron Jackson, Ayesha Morris of the Virgin Islands Humanities Council, and other prominent members of the local community. The ceremony included a procession around the Magens Bay Arboretum, a conservancy of nearly three quarter of a mile featuring indigenous and exotic plant and tree species. The Arboretum is the site of an ancient indigenous settlement, as well as a colonial-era plantation. Located on the North (Atlantic) side of the island, Magens Bay features a well-protected, world renowned white sand beach.

“If we do not display unity, the myth of us being savage will then prove to be true” states Phillips. “I feel it is important for all Taíno People to embrace each other so that our future generations will be honored to not only say we are the descendants of the Taíno, but we are Taíno.”

UCTPTN 12.12.2012

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Celebrates Taino Heritage

2012-12-12T11:53:00.003-05:00

St. Thomas, USVI (UCTP Taino News) - St. Thomas, Virgin Islands residents recently experienced an exciting, full day of Taino-related activities organized by local indigenous organization Opia Taíno International, Inc. Activities took place adjacent to the well-known historic building, Fort Christian, and at the nearby Emancipation Garden from 10am – 5pm, Saturday, December 1, 2012. The program featured an impressive list of speakers as well as an interactive, educational exhibition entitled “A Walk in My Moccasins.” The daylong program was free to the public and supported by the Virgin Islands Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

"We are here to dispel the myth of Taino extinction in the Caribbean" stated Maekiaphan Phillips, President of Opia Taino.

Some of the interactive features of the program included a Taino-inspired village with a batey (ceremonial plaza), Taíno artifacts and crafts, photographs, native foods, and results from Maekiaphan Phillips’s family genealogical exploration.

Members of Opia Taino and other special guests were on hand throughout the day to answer questions concerning Taino and Carib heritage. Featured speakers included Phillips, Roberto Mukaro Borrero of the United Confederation of Taino People, and Senator-elect, the honorable Myron Jackson. Discussion topics ranged from family genealogy to DNA testing; Taino history past and present; the United Confederation of Taino Peoples’ Inter-Tribal Registry; and the importance of honoring the Indigenous legacies of the Virgin Islands.

UCTPTN 12.12.2012

Decision Welcomed in Barrier Island Name Dispute

2012-12-05T23:26:00.001-05:00

Brevard County, Florida (UCTP Taino News) - Earlier this year, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names received a proposal to name a Florida barrier island after the Spanish Conquistador, Juan Ponce de Leon. The proposal was opposed by local residents, local governments, Indigenous organizations such as the American Indian Association of Florida and the United Confederation of Taino People, and others. On November 8th, it was announced by the Domestic Names Committee that the island would remain unnamed.

See full Story at UCTP Taino News:
http://www.uctp.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=792&Itemid=2

Based on a True Story, Taino Novel Republished

2012-12-04T12:26:00.002-05:00

New York (UCTP Taino News) – Dr. Jose Barreiro's masterfully written historical novel chronicling the first encounters between Indigenous Peoples and Europeans beginning with Columbus has been re-released by Fulcrum Press under the title “Taino: A Novel.” The story is told from the point of view of Guaikan/Diego, Christopher Columbus' young adopted Taino Indian son and interpreter. The book vividly recreates the often violent clashes of cultures in the Caribbean during the late 15th and early 16th centuries.

Author Jose Barreiro notes “My first publisher opted for a more generic title, and thus ‘The Indian Chronicles.’” He continued stating ““I always thought the book was best titled ‘Taino,’ as it tells the story of a Taino memory.”

Indeed, the engaging and at times heartbreaking story is told four decades after the arrival of Columbus, when Guaikan is an elderly man. While the story is historical fiction, it is based on true historical events and figures.

Presently a senior fellow at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, Jose Barreiro is a novelist, essayist, and an activist of nearly four decades on American indigenous hemispheric themes. “Taino: A Novel” is currently available at Amazon.com.

UCTPTN 12.04.2012

Peace and Dignity Journeys 2012 Coming to a Close

2012-11-28T16:57:00.001-05:00

Peace and Dignity Runners on Route to Guatemala. Photo courtesy of Yari Sina Sierra.

Uaxactun, Guatemala (UCTP Taino News) - The Peace and Dignity Journeys, a continental spiritual run held every four years by Indigenous Peoples from throughout the Western Hemisphere will end today Uaxactun, in Guatemala. The run began May 1^st, with two groups of runners beginning simultaneously in Chickaloon, Alaska and Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. The runners traveled through various indigenous communities carrying sacred staffs representing the prayers of the communities they have passed through since the first run and beyond. Each Peace and Dignity Journeys is dedicated to a specific prayer with 2012 dedicated to water.

Among the Indigenous Peoples participating in the 2012 Peace and Dignity Journeys, Caribbean Indigenous Peoples have been represented and will be present during the closing ceremonies. Following two local Caribbean runs, one in Kiskeia (Dominican Republic) and one in Boriken (Puerto Rico), two youth Taino youth representatives, Yari Sina Sierra and Wakanari Arawak, have continued on with the main contingent entering Guatemala today. Also participating in the closing ceremonies are Kasike Roman Guaraguarix Perez and Sherri Vigor of Yucayeque Maisiti and Bibi Vanessa Inarunikia Pastrano, found of the Bohio de Atabei Caribbean Indigenous Women’s Circle, and Council member of the United Confederation of Taino People. Pastrano was worked together with the Peace and Dignity Journeys since 2010 as a regional coordinator and contact for the Caribbean.

The Peace and Dignity Journeys will culminate in various ceremonies over the next few days, officially ending on Dec. 4.

UCTPTN11.28.2012

Discussion: Indigenous Peoples & Inequalities in the Post-2015 Development Agenda

2012-11-27T13:16:00.000-05:00

Dear colleague,

Indigenous people were absent from the Millennium Declaration and have remained so throughout the Millennium Development Goals processes: according to the UN System Task Team report on the post-2015 agenda, the MDGs have not reached the poorest and most marginalized people. To ensure that inequalities are addressed in the post-2015 agenda, the Global Thematic Consultation on Addressing Inequalities (co-led by UNICEF and UN Women) is holding a series of online, moderated discussions to gather views from a broad range of stakeholders on what the post-2015 development agenda should look like. In this context, we would like to invite you to join an online discussion on inequalities and indigenous peoples, co-moderated by the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII) and experts from Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations.

The discussion is taking place from 27 November to 14 December. To participate, please post your response in the discussion forum at www.worldwewant2015.org/node/284745. You are invited to register to the consultation here. The site is available in English, French and Spanish. You are invited to post your comments in any of the sixty languages supported by Google Translate. If you are unable to access the site, please email your response to: inequalities@worldwewant2015.org.

The discussion is co-moderated by Myrna Cunningham Kain, Member of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and Nilla Bernardi, Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII). They will be joined by experts from Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations beginning with:

Roberto Borrero, Chair, NGO Committee on the UN International Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples

Jennifer Koinante, Director, SIIWA, Kenya

To kick off the global conversation, we invite you to reflect on the following questions, among others:

1. What are the most important forms of inequalities faced by indigenous peoples? - including discussion of where and among whom these challenges occur, their severity, the evidence about them, etc.

2. What are the major structural factors at the root of these inequalities, within and among different societies?

3. What kinds of policies, strategies or interventions have been most successful in addressing the various inequalities experienced by indigenous peoples? And under which conditions/in which situations have particular policies, strategies or interventions had the greatest, lasting impact? (Contributors may wish to cite examples or give references to these “successes”).

4. Based on experience, what are the most important recommendations that could be proposed in the Post-2015 Development Agenda for making a lasting and transformative impact on the different forms of inequalities faced by indigenous peoples?

5. What actions and initiatives could be taken by different stakeholders, including civil society and indigenous peoples organizations, to bring about lasting improvements in these inequalities? And how should those who face inequalities themselves be enabled to participate in the implementation phase of the new Development Framework?

The recommendations emerging from your contributions will be incorporated into a report on ‘Addressing Inequalities in the Post-2015 Development Agenda’, to be presented at a high-level meeting in February 2013 in Copenhagen. The report will also be transmitted to the High-level Panel on Post-2015, appointed by the UN Secretary-General.

The consultation aims to be as broad and open as possible, in order to enable a multitude of voices to be heard from academia, media, indigenous peoples’ organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society, private sector, governments and the UN System. We look forward to hearing from you on how to realize the Future We Want for All.

Warm regards,
Myrna Cunningham Kain, Member of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Nilla Bernardi, Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII)

Contact: inequalities@worldwewant2015.orgDiscussion website: www.worldwewant2015.org/node/284745

Taíno-themed game released for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch

2012-11-17T14:24:00.002-05:00

Santa Clara, CA (UCTP Taino News) - Raindrop Games has launched a new historical game entitled “Arrival: Village Kasike” for iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch. Arrival: VillageKasike is the first game in the planed Arrival series, which focuses on the history of the indigenous Taíno people. Players will lead an ancient Taíno village to thriving prosperity or a struggling existence with challenges including hurricane preparation, food cultivation, village defense, and morale management, etc.

Arrival: VillageKasike presents the story of Naniki, a Taíno woman, who, through fate, must lead a struggling village somewhere in the Caribbean. The iOS game was developed in collaboration with the United Confederation of Taíno People with Roberto Múkaro Borrero, President of The United Confederation of Taíno People as project’s lead consultant. Borrero reviewed the various aspects of ancient Taíno life portrayed - from clothing, farming techniques, and socio-ceremonial presentations – in an effort to provided the highest standard of accuracy in this setting. In his personal capacity as a renowned Taíno musician, Borrero also provided Taíno music and speech to create a more immersive and authentic experience.

“Before even beginning development, Raindrop Games reached out to the Confederation, and we in turned reached out to the Community – affiliated and non-affiliated - about the potential of this collaboration” stated Borrero. After outreach and consultations, the Confederation received mostly positive reactions to the project.

“There were a few concerns, but the fact that we would be consulting all through development was a critical factor” noted Borrero. “The potential for introducing our ancient and contemporary culture to vast audiences using this technology was an educational opportunity that merited our attention and participation.”

According to Raindrop games, the goal was to create engaging, entertaining, and educational game play experience were the concept of “balance” is the key to survival.

Recommended devices for game play are iPhone 4 or newer, all iPads, iOS 5 or newer is required. Those interested in Arrival: Village Kasike can open iTunes to purchase and download the apps. Raindrop games also maintains a website for more information at http://www.arrivalgame.com/.

UCTPTN 11.17.2012

Nuestros Raices Tainas

2012-10-31T22:29:00.000-04:00

Come out and meet UCTP President, R. Mukaro Borrero and UCTP Liaison Officer, Tai Pelli at a special presentation at Arte Boricua in Orlando, Florida on Saturday, November 3, 2012.

Tribal spokeswoman says former American Indian Movement activist Russell Means dies at 72

2012-10-22T11:23:00.000-04:00

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Russell Means, a former American Indian Movement activist who helped lead the 1973 uprising at Wounded Knee, reveled in stirring up attention and appeared in several Hollywood films, has died. He was 72.

Means died early Monday at his ranch in in Porcupine, S.D., Oglala Sioux Tribe spokeswoman Donna Solomon said.

Means, a Wanblee native who grew up in the San Francisco area, announced in August 2011 that he had developed inoperable throat cancer. He told The Associated Press he was forgoing mainstream medical treatments in favor of traditional American Indian remedies and alternative treatments away from his home on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Means was an early leader of AIM and led its armed occupation of the South Dakota town of Wounded Knee, a 71-day siege that included several gunbattles with federal officers. He was often embroiled in controversy, partly because of AIM’s alleged involvement in the 1975 slaying of Annie Mae Aquash. But Means was also known for his role in the movie “The Last of the Mohicans” and had run unsuccessfully for the Libertarian nomination for president in 1988.

AIM was founded in the late 1960s to protest the U.S. government’s treatment of Native Americans and demand the government honor its treaties with Indian tribes. Means told the AP in 2011 that before AIM, there had been no advocate on a national or international scale for American Indians, and that Native Americans were ashamed of their heritage.

“No one except Hollywood stars and very rich Texans wore Indian jewelry,” Means said. “And there was a plethora of dozens if not hundreds of athletic teams that in essence were insulting us, from grade schools to college. That’s all changed.”

The movement eventually faded away, the result of Native Americans becoming self-aware and self-determined, Means said.

Paul DeMain, publisher of Indian Country Today, said there were plenty of Indian activists before AIM but that the group became the “radical media gorilla.”

“If someone needed help, you called on the American Indian Movement and they showed up and caused all kind of ruckus and looked beautiful on a 20-minute clip on TV that night,” DeMain said.

Means said he felt his most important accomplishment was the founding of the Republic of Lakotah and the “re-establishment of our freedom to be responsible” as a sovereign nation inside the borders of the United States. His efforts to have his proposed country recognized by the international community continued at the United Nations, he said, even as it was ignored by tribal governments closer to home, including his own Oglala Sioux Tribe.

But others may remember him for his former organization’s connection to Aquash’s slaying. Her death remains synonymous with AIM and its often-violent clashes with federal agents in the 1970s.

Authorities believe three AIM members shot and killed Aquash on the Pine Ridge reservation on the orders of someone in AIM’s leadership because they suspected she was an FBI informant. Two activists — Arlo Looking Cloud and John Graham — were both eventually convicted of murder. The third has never been charged.

Means blamed Vernon Bellecourt, another AIM leader, for ordering Aquash’s killing. Bellecourt denied the allegations in a 2004 interview, four years before he died.

DeMain, an Indian journalist who researched the case, said AIM’s leaders know who ordered Aquash’s killing but have covered up the truth for decades. Also in 1975, murder charges were filed against Means and Dick Marshall, an AIM member, in the shooting death of Martin Montileaux of Kyle at the Longbranch Saloon in Scenic. Marshall served 24 years in prison. Means was acquitted.

In addition to his presidential bid, Means also briefly served as a vice presidential candidate in 1984, joining the Larry Flint ticket during the Hustler magazine publisher’s unsuccessful bid for the Republican nomination.

But Means always considered himself a Libertarian and couldn’t believe that anyone would want to call themselves either a Republican or a Democrat.

“It’s just unconscionable that America has become so stupid,” he said.

His acting career began in 1992 when he portrayed Chingachgook alongside Daniel Day-Lewis’ Hawkeye in “The Last of the Mohicans.” He also appeared in the 1994 film “Natural Born Killers,” voiced Chief Powhatan in the 1995 animated film “Pocahontas” and guest starred in 2004 on the HBO series “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

Means recounted his life in the book “Where White Mean Fear to Tread.” He said he pulled no punches in his autobiography, admitting to his frailties and evils but also acknowledging his successes.

“I tell the truth, and I expose myself as a weak, misguided, misdirected, dysfunctional human being I used to be,” he said.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
Source

Statement From Russell’s Family

October 22, 2012 Hello our relatives. Our dad and husband, now walks among our ancestors. He began his journey to the spirit world at 4:44 am, with the Morning Star, at his home and ranch in Porcupine. There will be four opportunities for the people to honor his life to be announced at a later date. Thank you for your prayers and continued support. We love you. As our dad and husband would always say, “May the Great Mystery continue to guide and protect the paths of you and your loved ones.” The wife and children of Russell Means 444 Crazy Horse Drive Pahin Sinte, Republic of Lakotah

Source

Open Letter to the Taino Community

2012-10-12T14:06:00.000-04:00

To Roberto Borrero, Members of the UCTP and the Greater Taino Community,

On behalf of Raindrop Games, I am writing this letter to answer some of the more common questions about the Taino-themed video games we are building.

"Why do you want to make games about the Taino people?"

Our goal is to use video games to help create a better world. We believe one of the best solutions to the world's problems is to inspire people to be better. We specifically chose the Taino as an historical exemplification of this spirit, having persevered and survived a cultural clash that brought them close to
extinction. We hope that by educating people about who the Taino are will help provide a more accurate glimpse into their history. We believe when people understand a culture that is foreign to them, it expands their empathy and provides a deeper insight into humanity's broader issues.

"Why make a video game? Why not a movie or book? Wouldn't a video game trivialize the subject matter?"

Games have one strength that no other entertainment medium has, they are interactive. Interactivity allows the player to become more involved in the story as an active participant. What happens to the main character in a story happens directly to the player. In the long run, our plan is to use this unique property of games to create deeper emotional experiences for players. Video games are an upcoming medium with vast potential and we are doing our part to create games used for good.

"Arrival: Village Kasike" gives the player some exposure to the Taino culture before the arrival of Europeans. The player is put in charge of building a village while dealing with threats such as hurricanes, etc. Players will engage in traditional farming and fishing techniques as they provide for their village while informative texts share aspects of historical Taino life. Through the narrative of Naniki, the player can experience the connection between a Village Kasike and her people.

For over four years we have had the great pleasure of working with Roberto Borrero, President of the UCTP, to create video games about the Taino. Roberto's knowledge and insights have made it possible for us to complete our first Taino-themed game. The whole team is grateful for his help and willingness to
see the large potential good of this project.

If any members of the community have any questions or concerns about what we are doing, please feel free to reach out to me via our web site (http://www.arrivalgame.com/content/contact.htm).

Josh Samuels
Project Lead on the Arrival Video Game Series
www.arrivalgame.com
Founder and CEO of Raindrop Games, Inc
www.raindropgames.com

Indigenous Peoples Day Established in Pennsylvania

2012-10-11T19:54:00.001-04:00

Several participants at the 2012 Indigenous Peoples Day in Philadelphia. From left to right - Peta-Gay Roberts (Taino), Hon Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown, UCTP President R. Mukaro Borrero, Joselyn Borrero (Tlingit), and Ramon Ramos (Taino).

Pennsylvania (UCTP Taino News) - The House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on October 3^rd, recognized “Pennsylvania’s American Indian peoples and communities”, as well as the first Saturday in the month of October as Indigenous Peoples Day. The recognition was issued in “noncontroversial” House Resolution No. 861, introduced to the Assembly by Hon. Representatives V. Brown, Bishop, Brennen, Caltagirone, Digirolamo, Kirkland, Parker, Cultler, M.O’Briean, Staback, and Frankel.

The resolution acknowledges the “many great nations that inhabited the territory”, such as the Lenape, as well as the many “American Indian Peoples living in urban cities like Philadelphia”. At the presentation of Resolution 861 in Harrisburg, several local Indigenous representatives were invited to address the Assembly including Carlos Rivera, leader of Yucayeque Taino Ma’Oconuco.

Following the presentation of House Resolution 861, a celebratory festive was held in Muhammad Park in Philadelphia to commemorate Indigenous Peoples Day on October 6th. Indigenous Peoples from around the State and from as far as Canada gathered to share history and culture. The gathering was attended by Hon. Representative Vanessa Lowery Brown, who distributed copies of Resolution 861 to the participants and attendees. Seventh Generation Radio host and local Indigenous activist, Brother El “Owl” Ali addressed the gathering citing the significance of the Day for all Indigenous Peoples of Pennsylvania. El Ali was one of the main proponents lobbying for Indigenous Peoples Day, which was first recognized, last year at the local governmental level in Philadelphia.

At the event, El Ali also acknowledged the United Confederation of Taíno People and its President, R. Múkaro Borrero, for being the “inspiration” to lobby for an “Indigenous Peoples Day in Pennsylvania”. Borrero was on hand to receive a copy of the Resolution on behalf of the Confederation.

UCTPTN 10.11.2012