Virtual Heritage Month activities being considered by MOIPA

Aug 08, 2020 News

Principal Regional Development Officer of the MOIPA, Anil Roberts

As the COVID-19 cases in Guyana continue to rapidly increase, the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs is considering holding the annual Heritage Month activities virtually this year.
Principal Regional Development Officer (PRDO) and Event Coordinator at the Ministry, Anil Roberts, stated to this publication that due to the mandated COVID-19 regulations, it may be impossible to host physical celebrations. He noted that the annual heritage celebration sees a major turn out by Guyanese from various regions of Guyana. Since the events are usually very crowded, it would be difficult to host them while keeping with the social distancing regulations.
According to Roberts, once the idea is confirmed, the virtual celebrations will be held for a week long and will be aired nationally. He added that this ensures that Guyana still gets to see the rich Indigenous culture despite the limitations. He also stated that the media will be sent to Indigenous communities to record villagers performing their traditional dances as well as other activities.
Questions were raised regarding the commercial aspect of Heritage month and Roberts informed that the Ministry will also consider physical vending of products but strict COVID-19 guidelines will be implemented for when persons are purchasing. The events would usually see vendors marketing various products such as food, drinks and alcohol, skincare and beauty products, and household items, all from Indigenous communities.
While Roberts expressed deep enthusiasm for the initiative, he stated that a decision will be made based on the amount of funding they receive. He also added that they are highly dependent on the smooth transitioning of government that is currently ongoing.
In the upcoming weeks with Parliament being expected soon, the Ministry will observe what provisions will be made by the new government and a decision will be made as to whether the Ministry moves forward with the initiative. Guyana has seen observance of the Indigenous Heritage month since September 10, 1995. This was in honour of Guyana’s first Indigenous Member of Parliament, Stephen Campbell.

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