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Our foreparents endured immense adversity, yet they built communities, preserved traditions

May 06, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) extends heartfelt greetings to all Guyanese as we come together to observe and celebrate Arrival Day —a commemoration that began with the arrival of the first group of Indentured Labourers aboard the SS Whitby on May 5, 1838, and has since grown into a broader recognition of all peoples who journeyed to these shores. Whether they came in search of opportunities or brought through forced migration, each group played a significant role in shaping our society and contributing to the foundation of our Independence.

Today, we pause to reflect on the rich and diverse heritage that defines us as a People and as a Nation. “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” is not merely our Motto—it is a national promise forged through the sacrifices, struggles, and determination of our ancestors.

We honour the journeys of those who came from Africa, India, Portugal, China, the Caribbean, and Europe. Whether arriving as enslaved Africans, indentured labourers, or free migrants, they brought with them resilience, cultural depth, and a steadfast spirit to build better lives despite unimaginable hardships. In stabilizing the labour force after Emancipation, they laid the economic, social, and cultural foundations of modern Guyana.

Our fore-parents endured immense adversity. Yet, they built communities, preserved traditions, and instilled values of family, hard work, and unity. Their efforts laid the groundwork for many of our institutions, including the public service systems that we proudly uphold today.

As Public Servants, we are the custodians of this legacy. We are called to honour it through action—by advancing professionalism, equity, transparency, and service to all Guyanese. We must remain committed to defending the public good and safeguarding the welfare of our people.

Arrival Day is not just a public holiday—it is a moment for unity, reflection, and recommitment. It reminds us that our strength lies in our diversity, and that every ethnic group has contributed meaningfully to Guyana’s growth. It challenges us to uphold the values of inclusion, respect, and shared purpose that underpin the “One Guyana” vision.

Let this day inspire us to build bridges of understanding, foster positive race relations, and affirm that we are “All Different, All Equal.” Let us work together to build a just and inclusive society where every citizen is treated with dignity, fairness and justice.

We also recommit to upholding workers’ rights, advancing social justice, and strengthening the institutions that serve the people of Guyana with integrity and excellence.

On behalf of the Guyana Public Service Union, I wish all Guyanese a reflective, meaningful, and united Arrival Day. May we continue to build on the proud legacy of our fore-parents, and may our collective efforts shape a future that truly honours their struggles, sacrifices, and aspirations. May 5, 2025.

Regards

Guyana Public Service Union

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