Born in Puerto Rico, I grew up climbing flamboyan trees and swimming at beaches like Crashboat and Jobos. After moving to the United States, I became determined to learn more about and connect with my ancestors. Fueled by the fact that passing down my culture to my children would be harder as part of the diaspora, I compiled Taino texts, articles, etc. into a digital library.
MIYARI (HELLO), I’m ELBA WATUYANANI!
It is imperative that Taino people be centered in conversations about our history. My goal is to help bridge the gap between Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean and those in the continental Americas. Our lived experiences are just as valid - if not more - as our professional qualifications. I work every day to spread awareness of Taino people and combat misinformation both on social media and in academia.