Amerindian Heritage celebrations not only reflect Guyana’s rich indigenous culture but also recognise the achievements and growing contributions of Amerindians to national development.
Addressing the Heritage celebrations at Kuru Kururu on Sunday, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs and Information, Kwame McCoy, highlighted the progress made by Amerindian men and women.
“Today we are celebrating men and women of Amerindian heritage, who are doctors, lawyers… who are heading agencies… those apart of the Police Force and army.. men and women enlisted with GOAL and leading meaningful and productive lives,” he stated.
Minister McCoy said the achievements demonstrate the evolving meaning of what it means to be Amerindian in contemporary Guyana, with young people increasingly benefiting from opportunities previously unavailable to many indigenous communities.
He noted that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Government continues to invest in the lives of Amerindian youth, allowing them access to education, employment and other avenues for advancement regardless of where they reside.
According to the minister, while development remains a work in progress, there are visible signs of progress within Amerindian communities and in the lives of indigenous families.
He said the Heritage celebrations therefore provide an opportunity not only to showcase culture but also to reflect on the journey of Amerindian people.
He said, “What we are also celebrating here tonight is not only Amerindian heritage, but it is also celebrating your intelligence,” adding, “the fact that you can discern the things that are a part of your life today, that have never been there before, and the fact that you can differentiate facts and fiction.”
This he said is consolidated in the commitments and efforts of the President Irfaan Ali-led Administration.
Meanwhile, Minister McCoy underscored that with continued development, the Heritage celebrations have the potential to gain international recognition, while creating opportunities for communities and small businesses to benefit economically.
He also encouraged Amerindian communities to continue embracing their heritage while remaining active participants in Guyana’s development, noting that the country’s progress must include all of its people.