Nhábana Hiyaroyun (Women’s House)
Nhábana Hiyaroyun is a culturally rooted space dedicated to empowering Borikua Taino women through healing, education, and community building. Our mission is to honor the strength and wisdom of our ancestors by providing programs that foster cultural revitalization, economic empowerment, and holistic well-being.
We aim to reclaim and celebrate the role of Taíno women as caretakers, leaders, and knowledge bearers within their families and communities. Through traditional practices, intergenerational mentorship, and advocacy for Indigenous rights, the Nhábana Hiyaroyun serves as a sanctuary where women can reconnect with their heritage, heal and thrive as agents of change in their yucayeke and beyond.
Healing & Wellness
Traditional healing practices, including herbal medicine, women's areito, and ceremonial practice.
Mental health counseling referral service programs.
Women’s circles focused on self-care, meditation, and mutual support that integrates Taíno spirituality and storytelling.
Maternal & Family Support
Indigenous Birthing Practices, Training in traditional midwifery, herbal remedies for pregnancy, and postpartum care.
Support Networks for mothers and expectant women to share experiences and knowledge.
Parenting workshops emphasizing Taíno child-rearing values.
Health Advocacy: Helping women navigate healthcare systems while advocating for respect for Indigenous birthing traditions
Matriarchal Leadership & Advocacy
Programs to encourage women’s leadership within their yucayeke and community.
Education on Indigenous rights and policies.
Guidance on grant writing and nonprofit development for community projects.
Cultural Revitalization
Classes on Taíno language, crafts (e.g., pottery, weaving), and traditional food preparation.
Storytelling events to pass down ancestral knowledge.
Opportunities to learn about and practice ceremonies specific to women.
Economic Empowerment
Small business training for artisans and entrepreneurs. Assistance in business incorporation.
Workshops on sustainable practices, including agriculture, crafting, and ecotourism.
A cooperative marketplace for women to sell handmade goods or locally sourced products.
Employment, Job and Professional Trainings, workshops and classes and more.
Intergenerational Mentorship
Mentorship opportunities pairing elders with younger generations.
Workshops for girls focused on empowerment and connecting with their cultural roots.
Intergenerational Gatherings: Events for families to come together and celebrate Indigenous women’s roles in community preservation.
Cultural Curriculum Development: Creating resources for schools or community centers to highlight the contributions of Indigenous Caribbean women.
Voices of the Women's House
Priscilla Bell Lamberty, Yucayeke Yaguecax
It was a great experience. The atmosphere was hopeful, though tense at times. We sat together shared our thoughts about current events and personal challenges. While not everyone agreed on everything, I think some people came away with a better understanding of one another. Overall, it was a valuable learning experience.