In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Chinese women in Guyana, Margery Kirkpatrick in collaboration with the Chinese Association of Guyana is hosting five days of celebrations titled ‘An Enduring Female Legacy.’
According to a press release celebrations will be held from August 18 to 22. On the first day persons interested in participating in various field trips are asked to register at the Chinese Association on Brickdam from 8am to 5pm.
From 4.30pm on the same day, the public is invited to a celebration service at St Saviour’s Church at Broad and Saffon Streets, Charlestown. “As a special commemoration persons can offer at the altar a flower with the name of a special woman attached,” the release said.
In addition, from August 19 to 22, from 2 pm to 5 pm Kirkpatrick will be hosting an exhibition showcasing 150 years of contributions by Chinese women to Guyana at the Association. On August 19 a day trip comprising a historical tour of Windsor Forest and Parika showcasing the burial sites of various outstanding women will be held from 9.30 am to 4 pm. Another historical trip, to Hopetown, the original settlement established by Chinese after indentureship, is being held on August 20.
The trip also includes a visit to Arrowpoint Resort and Santa Mission. It starts from 8 am to 4 pm.
On August 21 a “guided excursion to take in the Highlights of Guyana – Kaieteur Falls and Orinduik” will be held from 7 am to 3 pm, the release said. On August 22, “Chinese Heritage Day”, an exhibition of Chinese culture with food, drink, fashion, stories and craft will be held.
These items will also be on sale. The public will also be able to update their family trees on the final day of the exhibition.
According to the release on March 11, 1860 the fifth vessel to undertake the voyage from China to British Guiana arrived at Port Georgetown with a cargo that included 372 persons of which 56 were women. Though Chinese immigration to British Guiana started on January 12, 1853, this marked the first batch of immigrants that would include women.
The release also said Kirkpatrick is the author of From the Middle Kingdom to the New World.
