Inaugural run seeks to recognise Taino heritage

RUN TAINO Run!!! Yamayeka 2018 will be launched on March 14 at 6 a.m. at Emancipation Park, St Andrew.

According to the organisers, this event was inspired by Jamaica’s participation in the Peace and Dignity Journeys (PDJ) in 2016.

Runners Robert Kalaan, Nibonri Pairman, and Velva Kasabiana Lawrence represented Jamaica and ran from New York City to Panama City in this celebration of indigenous culture.

Run Taino Run!!! Yamayeka 2018 is hosted by Sankofie, which is managed by Okomfo Afua Fofie (Carol Miller). Since 2010, Sankofie has promoted the honouring of Jamaica’s indigenous ancestors and has organised several Taino activities.

Eastern Jamaica is the focus of the 2018 run, with the indigenous runners journeying through St Andrew, St Thomas, Portland, St Mary, and St Ann. Special guests include Taino elders Vanessa Inaru Pastrana and Mildred Karaira Gandia Reyes from Puerto Rico.

The overseas communities participating are Bohio Atabey from Puerto Rico, Yukayeke Maisiti Kiskeya Taino from the Dominican Republic, Tara Humara and Mexica from Mexico. The participating local communities include Rockbrook, St Thomas, Charles Town, Portland, and Rio Nuevo, St Mary.

The run will culminate on March 20, the Spring Equinox, with the Taino New Year celebration at the Seville Heritage Park.

For further information contact Sankofie at 531-2414 or 815-3440.