Envoys of key Western missions here have said that that the fight against discrimination, marginalisation and violations of Indigenous rights, is a global priority and also in Guyana.
In a message to mark International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples today, the envoys here of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union (EU) said “Together we must also acknowledge that the fight against discrimination, marginalisation, and violations of Indigenous rights, is a global priority, also in Guyana. We must work in collaboration to prevent exploitation of their land and natural resources. Their leadership in this endeavour must also be recognised”.
The statement by US Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch; EU Ambassador Fernando Ponz Canto; Canadian High Commissioner, Mark Berman; and British High Commissioner, Jane Miller also applauded indigenous leadership.
“We applaud the Indigenous leadership recently reflected in the attendance of the National Toshaos Council Conference and congratulate them on their role in advocating for the needs of Indigenous Peoples of Guyana, working together with government, private sector, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. We wish them well in their tenure as they advocate for development and review legislation and policies as it relates to safeguarding Indigenous peoples. It is essential that their voices are prominent to enhance their participation in decision-making processes”, the statement said.
Issued under the theme, the Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge, the statement reiterated “our support for Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples rights and aspirations, and their full participation and decision-making as we work together in partnership to enhance their socio-economic development, empowerment, improved governance and, importantly, the preservation and transmission of their traditional knowledge for today and future generations”.
The envoys said that the fight for Indigenous women’s rights is still a challenge and therefore particularly important to support.
“Indigenous women are known to be the backbone of their families and peoples’ communities and play a crucial role in the preservation and transmission of traditional ancestral knowledge. They deserve all possible support, so that they can be more empowered and resilient to the many challenges they face and stand resolute in promoting and preserving their traditional knowledge. Indigenous children deserve to experience, benefit from and value the legacy of the unique cultures, languages, arts, cuisine, medicines and traditions as a whole, for these are also key elements that identify them as indigenous peoples. In addition, Indigenous women are often taking a lead in the defence of indigenous lands and territories and advocating for indigenous peoples’ collective rights worldwide”, the envoys said.
The envoys said that they are aware of the challenges that indigenous people face throughout the world.
“Improving security of land tenure, strengthening governance, promoting public investments in infrastructure, and supporting Indigenous systems for livelihoods are critical in advancing the quality of life within these communities”, they added.
