Latest update December 3rd, 2024 1:00 AM
Latest News
- Exxon says US$2.5B spent to purchase oil ships is a ‘win’ for company
- Guyana’s 3rd oil project achieved fastest ramp-up in the history of deep-water operations- ExxonMobil Guyana President
- After days of Israeli strikes, Hezbollah hits back, each accusing the other of ceasefire violations
- 791 drivers nabbed speeding in last week of November-police
- Jagdeo blanks Opposition representation on procurement boards
You have to value your freedom
— Prime Minister urges at 179th Emancipation celebrations
Persons from all across the country were urged by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo to value their freedom during Emancipation Day celebrations which were held yesterday at the National Park. The venue was filled to capacity.
This major celebration which was held under the theme: ‘Moving Forward; Building Guyana Through Ujamaa!’ was hosted by the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA). Emancipation Day honours the African ancestors and their contributions towards a free society which Guyana now enjoys.
Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally; Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection Keith Scott; Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes; Minister within the Ministry of Health, Karen Cummings and other Cabinet members and Members of Parliament were among those in attendance.
During his address, the Prime Minster said, “You have to value your freedom.”
He said that persons must not only cherish the historic freedom but the freedom that has brought them this far.
According to Nagamootoo, this freedom has taken Guyanese away from systems and factors that may block them from valuing their freedom.
He reminded that Guyana was colonized by the Dutch, English, French and Spanish; he spoke of the search for the golden city of ElDorado.
“Let us move forward to build our country of which we should all be proud of… a modern country, a progressive country, a prosperous country.”
He added that Guyana stands at the top of a new golden era of being among oil and gas producing nations and is moving closer to realizing this historic dream.
“You must give thanks that this country after many years has forged what many countries have been unable to forge. (This) is a united, broad, democratic coalition government…
a coalition that is described as a rainbow coalition that includes all of our people, all ethnicities, people of all cultural diversities, all political opinions…”
The National Park was transformed into a colourful spectacle as Emancipation revelry took over. A majority of the diverse crowd were attired in African-wear, with many of them making an effort to fashionably celebrate the day.
The crowd size could be described as disappointing the earlier part of the afternoon.
However, it grew sizably as the day progresses.
Upon entering the National Park, melodious sound emanated from drums.
Persons quickly secured seats to prepare for the cultural presentation that featured poems, dances and the much anticipated float parade among other activities.
There were also performances from talented Guyanese such as Tenecia De Freitas, and the Hebrew Family. A poem entitled ‘Hey Black Child’ was recited by five-year-old Michael Douglas.
There were several booths on display exhibiting artifacts depicting African culture, while others had displays of clothing, jewellery and ornaments. Food bars were also prevalent, with most selling traditional African foods like cook up rice, black pudding, foo foo and konki.
From all indication, the crowd was more interested in having a good time, with many of them gyrating to the music with their loved ones. The booths were an added attraction.
Similar Articles
THE BLUNT OF THE DAY
Sports
Features/Columnists
Morally Right. Legally wrong
…Peeping Tom Morally Right. Legally wrong Kaieteur News- The situation concerning the disputed parliamentary seat held... more
Haiti: Tragically Descending into Deeper Crisis
By Sir Ronald Sanders Kaieteur News- As gang violence spirals out of control in Haiti, the limitations of international... more
Weekend Cartoon
