The Guyana Consulate of New York observed the annual Emancipation Day (Aug 1) 2026 at Medgar Evers College (Brooklyn) of CUNY on July 30 commemorating 188 years since slavery ended in Guyana and Also celebrating the enduring contributions of Afro-Guyanese to development. It was well attended by hundreds. The African Guyanese diaspora in greater New York was attired in traditional African outfits (dashikis, etc.) of the ancestors, with vibrant African prints, head wraps on females and jewelry and hats. Members of other ethnic groups joined in the commemorative celebration. The event began with prayers of the different faiths.
Delivering remarks were Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and Consular General Ambassador Michael Brotherson both of whom extended condolences to the families affected by the MV Barima tragedy that occurred just over two weeks ago. They discussed what government is doing to address concerns of the families of victims and plans to raise the ferry that is at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. They appealed for unity and social cohesion in the aftermath of the MV Barima tragedy and national mourning. A prayer vigil for the victims was also held in Richmond Hill at the Christian church on 122nd Street and 101 Ave in the heart of the Indo Guyanese community.
At Medgar Evers, the two top diplomats in NY paid tribute to African ancestors who endured slavery widely accepted as the worst crime against humanity. They reminded listeners of the immense sacrifices and national mourning. and resilience of enslaved Africans who endured unimaginable suffering while working for free to develop Guyana.
Both diplomats described slavery as the “greatest crime against humanity”. And they both reiterated that an apology from governments that had Black slavery was not enough. They emphasized reparations are in order.
They both also called on Guyanese to emulate the courage and determination of the African slave ancestors and mentioned rebellion leaders Cuffy and Damon specifically.
Amb Birkett said: “Our African Guyanese brothers and sisters are the only Guyanese whose ancestors suffered a deliberate and forceful erasure of their way of life, language and culture, all while being made to work for free for over 200 years.
Both the atrocities committed and the duration for which it continued, make slavery the greatest crime against humanity. It is for this reason, that the unfinished business of reparation must be addressed, as the effects of slavery run deep in our societies across the Caribbean.
Amb Brotherson stated that emancipation from slavery some 188 years ago on August 1, symbolised dignity, justice and self-determination of African people. And he highlighted government programs aimed at empowering African Guyanese including through education, training, grants and entrepreneurship and the proposed Guyana Development Bank.
Amb Brotherson said: “On behalf of the Government of Guyana and the Consulate General of Guyana in New York, I extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and to all those whose lives have been touched by this tragedy. Although we gather here in New York this evening, our hearts remain with our fellow Guyanese at home, and our thoughts and prayers continue to be with them during this difficult time. While our hearts remain heavy, it is in moments such as these that we are reminded of the resilience, compassion, and unity that define us as a people. It is in that spirit that I now seek to reflect on the significance of Emancipation Day”.
He added: “ The resilience, enterprise, and determination demonstrated by our emancipated ancestors laid many of the social and economic foundations upon which an independent Guyana now stand”.
He thanked the attendees: “Allow me to thank all of you for your presence this evening. I also wish to acknowledge the staff of the Consulate General of Guyana in New York, the Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations and the Medgar Evers College, whose collective efforts have made this evening’s observance possible”.
In addition to speeches, there was the rhythmic beat of African drums. Refreshments were served.
