Celebrating with the Amerindians

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,
Never was there a time when the indigenous peoples of Guyana were so celebrated. They have been taken for granted for too long. The present ruling administration is now making amends and I am happy about this. I am happy that the minister of Amerindian affairs said that in order to promote cultural development, government this year has allocated Gy$ 35 million, which will go towards the further growth of indigenous groups in the various villages. This is indeed good to hear. Heritage Month 2012, currently on, was officially launched by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs under the theme “Embracing Our Identity, Celebrating our Culture.”
Editor, I applaud the minister for commenting on the ‘protection and preservation of indigenous culture’. She stated that over the years, government has succeeded in raising awareness at the national and local levels. Where arts and craft are concerned, exhibitions were actually held at the Umana Yana, Kingston. This was really a treat too. I think that Amerindian art, craft, and cuisine should be a part of the Guyana school curriculum.
Who say that Guyana needs all that fanciful technology? And why should Guyanese not stick with their belnahs and chowkies (East Indian utensils)? I had a laugh – the proud local said: “What? A chowkie? Oh, a roti board! See what I mean about this thing called culture? I go back to the University of Guyana (UG) Amerindian Research Unit, which held a seminar, reflecting on the work and life of the late Amerindian priest. This was sometime in June of this year. He died at the age of 97, was also the first Amerindian Guyanese to be ordained as a priest and a canon in the Anglican Church. His life was described as a linguistic dream. This kind of recording and reminiscing must be the norm where the indigenous peoples are concerned.
It would be quite great if during heritage month, all the various groups in Guyana (race and religion too) can come together under a ‘Guyanese canopy’ and just showcase themselves – language, books, writings, music, instruments etc. It will really capture the great mix and yet highlight individuality.
Many countries have this special emphasis and Guyana should now go all the way – after all, Guyana has at least six major groups.

Yours truly,
Jadon Hyman

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