November 15, 2023
By Tessa Chilton
In the tapestry of Esmilda Galano Navarro’s life, dance has been a personal passion and a bridge for connecting cultures.
Galano Navarro was born in Havana, Cuba and from a young age she has loved to dance. She initially enrolled in classical ballet but later transitioned to contemporary dance which allowed her to explore her creative side through an improvisational style. Her love for dance began to extend beyond expression when she began sharing her expertise by teaching dance classes in Spain, Italy, Poland, and the United States.
Galano Navarro studied Library Science and Information Sciences at the University of Havana and Historical Archives at the Friends of the Country Economic Society in Spain. Eventually, she taught Spanish and math in several countries.
Today, Galano Navarro is a Spanish teacher in the Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and is earning a master of arts in teaching through the Louisville Teacher Residency (LTR). As a student, she is involved with the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program (MTRP).
In addition to dance and education, Galano Navarro is an activist for autism. “There is very little representation of autistic teachers both at the university and in JCPS,” said Galano Navarro. “This is so important. By having events for people with autism we can create a more inclusive community.” Recently, she held a cyclist event and a walking event in and around Central Park in Old Louisville to advocate for autism awareness in the city.
Galano Navarro is currently a student of Kpanlogo, a recreational dance and music form that originated among urban youth in Ghana and Mbira, a family of musical instruments, traditional to the Shona people of Zimbabwe. She practices with Angela Scharfenberger at Louisville Folk School.
"I dare to say that it [Kpanlogo] is changing my life for the better, in many aspects,” said Galano Navarro. “And with the opportunity to teach Afro-Cuban dance classes, it is a very nice combination that I find interesting."
Dance is strongly associated with religion and culture in Cuba. “Dance is really like therapy,” said Galano Navarro. “When a group of people dance together, they connect with each other and each other’s cultural identities.”
Upcoming Afro-Cuban dance event at the University of Louisville
In partnership with MTRP, Galano Navarro will teach an Afro-Cuban dance session on Belknap Campus on Thursday, November 30, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. The session will include various dance styles like bachata, salsa, mambo, and merengue. The event will be held at SAC W116/W117.
“During this session, I want to teach Yemaya (ruling virgin) Owner of the Sea, Oshun (Copper Charity) Owner of the River, Shango (Santa Barbara) Justice, thunder, fire, and Obbatala (Virgen de las Mercedes) Creator of the earth and sculptor of the human being,” said Galano Navarro.
Light snacks will be provided for all attendees.
Students, faculty, and staff from across UofL are invited to join for this fun event. Please RSVP here.
“I am excited to teach Afro-Cuban dance in this school because I think it is important to maintain the African heritage that gives us so much cultural and spiritual wealth," wrote Galano Navarro.
About the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program
Since 1985, the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program has been addressing the shortage of teachers of color in Louisville KY., and the nation. The program is a partnership among the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative (OVEC) that offers involved students the support they need to succeed in their certification program, graduate on time and become effective teachers. MTRP utilizes initiatives like one-on-one coaching, student networking, community partnerships, Praxis assistance, job placement support and scholarships.
Follow the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Learn more about the program by visiting its webpage. Programs like MTRP are not possible without the generous support of alumni and friends. Donate to MTRP here.
About the College of Education and Human Development:
Founded in 1968, the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) is a vibrant community that prepares students for leadership in a variety of metropolitan settings including schools, public and private corporations, and governmental agencies.
CEHD embraces the University's mission to advance the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of our diverse communities and citizens. Our commitment to student success is unparalleled as we promote the highest levels of learning and social, emotional, and physical health and well-being for all children, individuals, and families.
Connect with the CEHD by following us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, or by visiting our main website .