About:
José Francisco Ávila is a NYC licensed tour guide, author and publisher, social justice activist, he is author of the books Garifuna Ancestry: and Pan-Garifuna Afro-Latino Power of Pride.
He is the founder of the Garifuna Experience in NYC website, a NYC Garifuna tourism destination brand. The vision is to position New York City as the Epicenter of the Garifuna Arts and Garifuna Culture will become an integral part of the fabric and identity of the New York City, showcasing it as a vibrant destination for travelers.
His walking tour Exploring The Significance of The Happy Land Memorial, explores the historical and cultural significance of the Happy Land Social Club Fire to both New York City and the Garifuna community. The tour was recognized as one of the Historic District Council's 2023 Six to Celebrate awardees. This recognition highlights the importance in preserving and promoting the history of the Garifuna people in New York City.
José Francisco is the chairman of the Board of the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. and Managing Member of Garifuna Afro-Latino Entertainment, LLC.
He is a member of the Bronx Music Heritage Center Advisory Board.
Education:
Certificate in Afro-Latin American Studies 2022-2023, The Afro-Latin American Research Institute (ALARI)
Harvard University
Bentley University, BS in Accounting.
Training:
2023 NYC Tourism + Conventions’ Tourism Ready program.
Personal Interests:
History, culture
Special Tours:
The Happy Land Memorial Walking Tour will take us to the site of the Happy Land Social Club fire of March 25, 1990, when 87, mostly young Garifuna men and women, lost their lives. It is the deadliest fire in New York City since the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which occurred on the same day in 1911. The tour is led by Licensed Bilingual Spanish/English tour guide Jose Francisco Avila, who provides historical context, sharing stories and insights about the Garifuna community's contributions and experiences in this neighborhood, as well as significant locations that have played a role in the history of the Garifuna community.
Languages:
English
Spanish
Services Offered:
Lecturer
Tour Guide
Tours Offered:
Bronx
Walking Tours
