Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai in a message on the observance of Amerindian Heritage Day 2008 on Tuesday expressed pride in what she described as “the quantum leap” made by Amerindians in sustaining their culture and noted the impact their culture, people, achievements and communities are having on the growing tourism sector of Guyana. The Minister of Amerindian Affairs acknowledged also the importance of the diversity of Guyanese culture and urged that everyone should accept that the cultural dimension of any country is equally important for social cohesion and economic and social development.
During the month of September, Sukhai said, people should be cognizant of other development and transformation and achievements, and plan for the sustainable development of their communities for the future.
“There is potential for expansion of our community’s agricultural base to ensure food security, to provide support for sectors in potential areas as the developing nature, agro and community tourism, enterprise development, training and community management,” the Amerindian Affairs Minister asserted.
Meanwhile, Sukhai noted that in celebrating and reflecting on the rich Amerindian heritage, culture, achievements and contribution to Guyana, “we must not lose sight of those who have gone before us but laid the path for our development,” referring to Stephen Campbell’s life, work and achievements which she said had contributed to the recognition of Amerindians today.
Every year, Sukhai said, the chosen Amerindian village where people gather to celebrate Heritage Day further adds to the promotion of Amerindian cultural and traditional practices.
This year, she added, there will be reflections on the life and work of Stephen Campbell, and heritage activities will take place at the host village Santa Aratak Amerindian community on Saturday. And pointing to the theme for this year’s observances: “Inspiring Our Nation To Move Forward In Unity”; she observed that it is very relevant to every Guyanese, not only Amerindians.
The minister also observed that Amerindian Heritage Month has “supported the growth, recognition, appreciation and acceptance of our culture by all ethnic groups.”
And what is overwhelmingly important, Sukhai contended, is that the nine tribes continue to coexist in harmony, securing the future in unity without having to abandon the richness of their culture and traditional practices which for generations have remained versatile.
In the meantime, the minister invited all educational institutions, both private and public, to make full use of the Amerindian village as they prepare students for projects on the indigenous group’s tradition and culture in keeping with the school curriculum.
