The 60th anniversary of Guyana’s independence provides timely recognition of the enormous progress that Guyana has made since its independence towards improved quality of life, especially social, cultural, economic, education and political advances by its people.
There is worldwide recognition of Guyana, its history, culture, traditions, and economic advances, despite decades of struggles to overcome hardships during and after colonialism.
Guyana has shown its resilience and courage to forge a national ONE-GUYANA identity and agenda of progress in democracy and mostly peaceful co-existence among its diverse ethnic groups.
This is a moment of reflection, recognizing those who struggled, suffered and were persecuted while they advocated from Britain since the original occupation in 1796 and later in 1815.
Guyanese are extra-ordinary people improving their lives everywhere
Exemplify the best of immigrant experience – self and community;
Energetic; Exuberant; Effective; Exciting; Excelling in all areas
Exceed expectations; Embracing opportunities and other peoples
I take immense pride being of Guyanese origin living in the USA.
Similar to USA Independence Day, we pay homage to those who championed the cause of Guyana’s independence. Many were imprisoned in infamous Mazaruni by the British pre-independence, including the late Pt. Ram Lall. He migrated to USA, settled in Queens, became a highly acclaimed Hindu scholar and community advocate. His contributions to Queens was recognized with street co-naming Pt Ram Lall Way in Richmond Hill for which I proudly led the campaign. Thanks to Borough President Donovan Richards for his support.
We also respectfully remember and memorialize the many lost souls who were victims of the Wismar Massacre which took place on the same date 2 years earlier: May 24-26, 1964. A masterfully researched book, the Wismar Massacre written by Dr. Baytoram Ramharack, is to be launched in Richmond Hill on June 7
By Ashook Ransaran