Roger “Guayakan” Hernandez Jr., Taíno Cultural Leader, Media Advocate, and East Harlem Activist, Crosses into Koaibei, the Spirit World

UCTP Board Member Roger "Guayakan" Hernandez distributing hurricane relief packages to the Cheverez Family in Morovis, Borikén in 2018.

Roger Hernandez Moyet Jr. (68), also known as Guayakan, a pioneering leader in the contemporary Taíno movement, a community advocate, writer, educator, and media producer whose work helped preserve and promote Indigenous Caribbean culture and defend the interests of East Harlem residents, passed away on June 8, 2026, from kidney-related illness. 

For decades, Hernandez dedicated his life to cultural preservation, Indigenous advocacy, community empowerment, and public education. His passing marks the loss of a pioneering and respected voice in the contemporary Taíno resurgence movement and a tireless advocate for the people of El Barrio, NY. 

With his family lineage from San Lorenzo, Borikén, Hernandez was born and raised in New York City’s East Harlem aka “El Barrio”. He was a proud third-generation resident of the neighborhood. His deep connection to El Barrio would shape a lifetime of activism devoted to preserving both Borikua cultural heritage and community identity. 

Among his many accomplishments, Hernandez was a founding visionary of the United Confederation of Taíno People (UCTP), helping to establish one of the most influential organizations dedicated to the recognition and revitalization of Taíno identity, culture, and traditions. He served on the UCTP's Governing Board and Executive Board until his passing. He later served as a Nitaíno Council Member of the Guainía Taíno Tribe of Borikén (Puerto Rico). Nitaíno Hernandez was also an active member of the UCTP Taíno Language Committee, working to preserve and strengthen ancestral language traditions for future generations. 

His commitment extended beyond organizational leadership. Hernandez was instrumental in efforts to acquire land in Borikén (Puerto Rico) for the UCTP, recognizing the vital connection between contemporary Indigenous Taíno Peoples and stewardship of ancestral lands. For a period of his life, he resided in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, deepening his connection to the island of his ancestors and participating directly in cultural and community initiatives there. During his time in Puerto Rico, he served as the UCTP's Borikén Liaison. His work with the UCTP US Census campaign and the establishment of Kasike Agueibana Day are a few of his important achievements.

Roger "Guayakan" Hernandez, 3rd from the left, with other Taíno community members at Tibes Ceremonial Center in Ponce, during an official US Census event highlighting Indigenous Heritage in Borikén (Puerto Rico).

Hernandez was also among the founding members of the Kasibahagua Taíno Cultural Society, established alongside Kasike Roberto Múkaro Agueibaná Borrero. Through Kasibajagua, he helped educate audiences about Taíno history, traditions, and spirituality. For more than fifteen years, he performed with the group, playing the maiohuakan, the sacred Taíno log drum whose resonant rhythms connected contemporary communities with ancestral ceremonial practices. His performances, along with the other group members, became a powerful expression of cultural continuity and Taíno resilience. 

An accomplished scholar, Hernandez earned a Master of Science degree in Urban Affairs from Hunter College in 1987. He applied his academic training to community advocacy and public service throughout his life. 

Nitaíno Hernandez crafting contemporary Taíno pottery

In East Harlem, Hernandez emerged as a respected voice against displacement and gentrification. In 2017, he coordinated El Barrio Unite’s opposition to the proposed East Harlem rezoning plan, advocating for residents concerned about affordability, neighborhood preservation, and community self-determination. His efforts reflected a lifelong commitment to protecting the people and character of the neighborhood he called home. 

As a writer and communicator, Hernandez understood the importance of controlling and sharing Indigenous narratives. He co-founded Presencia Taína, a nonprofit media advocacy organization dedicated to promoting Indigenous awareness and community issues. Through Presencia Taína, he produced numerous educational and cultural programs that aired on Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN) cable television, bringing Taíno perspectives and community stories to audiences throughout New York City and beyond. 

His editorial contributions were equally significant. Hernandez served as co-editor of La Voz del Pueblo Taíno, the publication of the United Confederation of Taíno People. There he documented community developments, cultural initiatives, and Indigenous perspectives. His writing consistently reflected his dedication to education, historical accuracy, and cultural empowerment. 

Hernandez also served on the East Harlem Borinqueneers Honoring Committee, helping ensure that the sacrifices and accomplishments of Puerto Rican military veterans received the recognition they deserved. Extending his work beyond East Harlem, he also served on the board of the Friends of Brook Park Community Garden in the South Bronx.

Roger Hernandez, 2nd from right, at Brook Park in the South Bronx. He served on the Park's Board of Directors.

Friends, colleagues, and fellow advocates remember Nitaíno Hernandez as a thoughtful leader, passionate educator, gifted storyteller, and steadfast defender of Taíno identity. Whether speaking at community meetings, producing television programs, writing articles, performing traditional music, or organizing cultural initiatives, he approached every endeavor with passion, conviction, and a profound sense of responsibility to future generations. 

“His life’s work helped strengthen institutions, preserve traditions, educate communities, and inspire countless individuals to reconnect with their Indigenous roots. Through his advocacy, cultural leadership, scholarship, and artistic contributions, Nitaíno Roger “Guaiakan” Hernandez Jr. helped ensure that Taíno voices will continue to be heard and respected” stated Kasike Roberto Múkaro Agueibaná Borrero, President of the UCTP.  

Borrero continued “Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, his legacy endures in the organizations he helped build, the cultural traditions he helped preserve, the stories he told, and the many lives he influenced. May he journey with the ancestors, and may his memory remain a blessing to all who knew him.”  

Nitaíno Roger “Guaiakan” Hernandez Jr. is remembered as a proud Taíno leader, devoted Borikua son of El Barrio, a cultural bearer, a community advocate, and a tireless champion for Taíno and other Indigenous Peoples. His voice, vision, and spirit will continue to resonate through the communities he served and the generations he inspired.  UCTPTainoNews 06/11/2026