PRFDance Director Ana Mari-á Tekina-eirú Maynard is a blood descendant of the native Tainos of Boriken. In March 2007, she danced in her first Areyto where she received her Taina name Tekina-eirú (maestra dulce/sweet teacher), an "efecto de Dios" (from God) she was told. Over the last year Tekina-eirú has enjoyed discovering the many things about herself that now make sense in the context of her Taino heritage, but especially the reason behind her deep spirituality and connection to God who has always been a visibly-active presence in her life. Her last year has been filled with awe-inspiring experiences and growth that can never be captured in words.
On March 2, 2008, The Concilio Taino Guatu Ma Cu A Boriken held a beautiful ceremony in the Rio Grande en San Lorenzo, the mountain-home of her Ancestors, where her name was consagrada in front of the Pueblo. Tekina-eirú was touched that so many had come from across La Isla to share this special milestone with her. Tekina-eirú's Mom and family are very proud she has reclaimed her heritage, and Tekina-eirú is sure her Ancestor, her Abuelita, who rests with Yaya (God), feels the same. Enjoy the memories.
