Dear Editor,
On Wednesday February 22, 2023, hundreds of children from the Macedonia Joppa district in Eastern Corentyne took to the roadways to celebrate Guyana’s 53rd Republic Anniversary. It was a vibrant celebration never seen before in the district or on the Corentyne after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid 19 pandemic. It was the largest Mashramani celebrations on the Corentyne. After a delay of about 45 minutes, the parade got underway at 9:40 AM at Brighton Village under cloudy skies and proceeded for one and a half miles to Eversham School. With police officers present to control the traffic, the more than 400 school children showed off their dancing skills.
Under the theme ‘Mixing and Mashing as One Guyana,’ the children from several schools in the district decked out in a dazzling array of colourful attire of gold, blue, black, yellow, red, and orange portraying the colours of the Arrowhead, and depicting Guyanese culture, lifestyle, and heritage. Acknowledging the relevance of this year’s theme which fit right in-line with President Irfaan Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ initiative, the children from different ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds came together as Guyanese. Accompanied by their teachers, parents and relatives, the children aged from three to twelve years danced to the rhythm of the lively and customary soca music supplied by Yard Byzd Entertainment Sound. Residents of all ages and from all walks of life, regardless of race, religion, or social status from the Macedonia Joppa villages of No. 35, Brighton, Kiltairn, Eversham, Epsom and Bengal came out in large numbers and lined both sides of the roadways in anticipation of seeing the colourful costumes.
After marching and dancing for about one hour, the children arrived at Eversham Primary School, where they assembled for prayer followed by lunch comprised of chicken, fried rice, cook-up, chowmein, and fries as well as juices and drinks after which they took part in all-day educational, cultural, and social activities. After they were addressed by several teachers on the importance of having a good education, respect for their teachers, obey their parents and elders, and love one another. They were told that Mashramani is a symbol of unity and togetherness and a time for all to come together to celebrate as one people, one nation. The children were also told that Mashramani is a true celebration of diversity, elegance and maturity of the nation and the power and strength of Guyanese in every community. It is a testimony to our enriched social and shared heritage as a nation. The day ended with some of the children praising their teachers, others thanked their parents for their support and kindness. It was a day of fun for all, but especially the children.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Ross-Albert
Public Relations Director
Macedonia Joppa Voluntary
Committee
