As Guyana observed Arrival Day and looked ahead to its 60th Independence anniversary, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali called on citizens to strengthen national unity and work towards a more inclusive society.
In his Arrival Day message, the Head of State reflected on the country’s history, reminding citizens that the foundation for independence was built through the sacrifices and contributions of generations before 1966.
“The stepping stones were laid by every hand, every sacrifice and every dream that came before,” President Ali said. He pointed to the role played by Indigenous peoples, African ancestors, and the various groups who later arrived in Guyana and helped shape the country.
The President noted that Arrival Day serves as a time to recognise those who came to Guyana after Emancipation, including indentured labourers from India, China, Portugal and other parts of the world.
With this year marking 180 years since the arrival of the first East Indian indentured immigrants, Dr Ali paid tribute to their perseverance despite the hardships they faced.
“Most endured injustices, privations and the ache of separation, yet the majority… stayed and made Guyana their home,” he said.President Ali said one of Guyana’s longstanding challenges has been building unity among its diverse population.
“The great challenge… has been how to create oneness from the diverse strands of our people,” he stated, while adding that achieving unity requires more than remembrance.
According to the President, Guyana must continue building a society where “every heritage feels seen, every voice is heard, and no one is made to feel a stranger in their own homeland.”
He also linked national unity to the country’s development, stressing that the benefits of Guyana’s growing economy must reach all citizens.
Hhe Head of State further urged Guyanese to honour the struggles of their ancestors by continuing the fight for justice, equality and dignity, while ensuring opportunities are available to future generations.
He called for a country where “every child, regardless of circumstance, can be protected and aspire to be the best version of themselves.”
