Dear Editor,
As Indigenous leaders convene at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre for the National Toshaos Conference, I wish to remind them of their duty to their communities and Indigenous peoples of this country during their discourse and engagement with governmental Ministers and representatives. In so doing, as an Indigenous youth, I urge our leaders to jointly support the people of Chinese Landing.
The case of Chinese Landing is exemplary of the lamentable situations and realities Indigenous people face globally, rooted in discriminatory policies and laws within their respective countries. One can simply look into neighbouring Brazil to prove this, where Indigenous land rights defenders and advocates face violence and even murder when they seek to defend their lands and territories.
Solidarity as Indigenous leaders is therefore necessary with communities and leaders faced by similar injustices as is the case of our relatives in Chinese Landing. Our collective issues require collective representation and strength. Today it is Chinese Landing, tomorrow it can be you. Reflect on the cases of Isseneru, the Marudi Mountains, and the Kako watershed. This is not just a Chinese Landing issue, it is an Indigenous peoples issue and needs to be understood, advocated for and addressed as such. Violations of Indigenous peoples’ rights to safety, a clean environment, health, traditional lands, and their Free, Prior and Informed Consent will not end with Chinese Landing.
I therefore call on you to seek immediate governmental intervention and investigation into the threats and intimidation meted out against Chinese Landing and the ravaging of their lands. Prolonging infringements sets dangerous precedents which emboldens illegal miners and powerful parties to force Indigenous peoples into submission or further conflict. Call for the revision of the relevant laws including the Amerindian Act which is proving to be inadequate for the protection of the rights on Indigenous peoples in Guyana. Remember the representation and decisions taken now will determine the future of generations to come; not for a single village but for Indigenous peoples in this country.
I wish you all a successful conference.
Sincerely,
Romario Hastings
Akawaio Youth