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Areíto Yukayú Guáyiga
DATE: Thursday, May 28, 2026
T.A.I.N.O. Makes History in Maryland with Landmark Recognition of Arawak Taíno Heritage
SANDY SPRING, MARYLAND — The Taino American Indigenous National Organization (T.A.I.N.O.) celebrated a historic milestone as Montgomery County, Maryland, officially recognized the Arawak Taíno people through what is believed to be Maryland's first county-level Taíno Proclamation. The occasion was further honored by the presentation of an Official Maryland Governor's Citation, marking a significant step forward in the acknowledgment and celebration of Indigenous history and culture.
The event, Areíto Yukayú Guáyiga – An Evening of Strength, Spirit & Survival, brought together distinguished leaders, including Montgomery County Council President Natali Fani-González, Council Member At-Large Will Jawando, Maryland State Archives Assistant State Archivist Corey Lewis, and Keith Colston of the Governor's Office of Community Initiatives and Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs.
T.A.I.N.O. also announced a new partnership with the Charles Koiner Conservancy through Founder and Executive Director Hannah Sholder, creating new opportunities for cultural preservation, education, and community engagement.
Founded by Executive Director Denyzio Laboy, T.A.I.N.O. continues to advance awareness, recognition, and preservation of Arawak Taíno history and heritage. Guests enjoyed a powerful cultural performance by renowned Taíno tribal dancer Chali'naru, Indigenous-inspired artwork and jewelry by Lisa Valle of Labors of Love Arts, and a cultural food presentation highlighting the lasting influence of Taíno traditions throughout the Caribbean and the Americas.
The evening demonstrated Maryland's commitment to recognizing Indigenous history while affirming a powerful truth:
The Arawak Taíno people are not a people of the past. They are a people of the present and the future.
We Are STILL Here. We ARE Arawak Taíno.
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Previous Events & Projects
Complete
Afro-Latino Caribbean Day Festival
T.A.I.N.O. participated in the Sandy Spring Slave Museum, honoring shared Afro-Latino and Caribbean ancestral roots.
Event Concluded
Complete -Pending Release
Maryland Archives History Project
The Maryland State Archives preserves and archives Maryland communities’ oral histories, cultural memory, and historically significant lived experiences.
Active
Taino Satte Resolution Proclamation Project
A global effort is underway across the United States and abroad to revitalize and recognize the Arawak Taino's continued existence. T.A.I.N.O. supports this effort here in our home State of Maryland. Visit our proclamation page link to learn more, or click below to support this effort
Complete
Aréito Yukayú Guáyiga VIP Fundraiser
T.A.I.N.O. proudly hosted its first annual VIP Fundraiser Event—an evening of empowerment, education, cultural awareness, and celebration. Guests enjoyed an Arawak Taíno dance performance, inspiring speakers, and community fellowship.
The event was further honored with an official proclamation from Montgomery County, Maryland, and a Maryland State Citation presented on behalf of the Governor’s Office. We thank everyone who supported this historic occasion and look forward to an even bigger celebration next year.
Organizations and businesses helping us preserve, educate, and amplify the Arawak Taíno legacy.
Partners & Allies
We proudly collaborate with organizations and businesses that align with our mission of cultural preservation, education, and community empowerment. Together, we are building a legacy that ensures the Arawak Taíno story is recognized, respected, and remembered.
CKC Farming is a community-centered agricultural organization dedicated to sustainable land stewardship, education, and equitable food systems. Through innovative programming and partnerships, they create meaningful connections between land, culture, and community—aligning closely with Indigenous values of preservation and respect for the earth.
Grand Slam Apparel Designs delivers high-quality custom clothing and graphic design services tailored for brands, organizations, and events. Known for their versatility and attention to detail, they help transform concepts into impactful visual products that stand out.
B6 Customs is a creative brand specializing in custom apparel and personalized design work that brings identity, culture, and individuality to life. Their work reflects a commitment to quality craftsmanship and bold expression, helping clients turn ideas into wearable statements.
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This Space is waiting for you to be our next collaborator / Partner. Reach out to us and let's discuss the benefits of us collaborating for growth, empowerment, and standing in truth.
Ariéto Yukayú Guáyiga Event Supporters & Contributors
Public Service Contributors
The Taino American Indigenous National Organization extends appreciation to the many educators, historians, public servants, community organizations, and participating institutions whose presence and contributions helped support meaningful dialogue, education, and cultural awareness during this event.
Participation by government employees or agencies does not constitute official endorsement or sponsorship of this event or organization.
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