Guyana Day USA Inc., New York chapter, on Saturday, May 25, honored distinguished Diaspora Guyanese for their civic, professional career, cultural achievements and for flying the nation’s flag with pride and joy.
The awards that commemorated Guyana’s 58th Independence Anniversary was held at the organization’s food pantry location, 128th Avenue and Liberty Avenue in Queens, where plaques were presented to Guyanese heritage NYPD First Deputy Commissioner, Tania Kinsella, recently appointed by Mayor Eric Adams, for her exceptional service. She began her career as a beat cop, climbing through the ranks to become the first female deputy commissioner, and the first Black woman to hold the top position.
“My mother is Guyanese. I was raised Guyanese, my father is Jamaican, but I was raised Guyanese and enjoyed black cake at Christmas time. I hope that when you see me you see yourself, and the future of your daughters and sons becoming a police officer. I never in my wildest dreams would have imagined I would be standing here in front of you as the second highest member of service in the largest Police Department in the world,” said Kinsella.
“I went to Guyana last week, it was more than a work trip, it was a spiritual enlightening for me. I grew up always hearing about Guyana, that it was underdeveloped and very poor. I haven’t seen that. I saw so much beauty. I saw much technology and so much development that President Ali has been creating in Guyana. I want to thank him for bringing Guyana on the map along with other Caribbean countries.
“Let us give him a round of applause,” said Kinsella, who also thanked Mayor Eric Adams, whom she said had a vision, adding “I didn’t know that vision was me. But it’s not just me, he empowers all women from every race, and every background, so let’s continue to uplift him. Thank you again for this wonderful honor. It’s not just another award this is an award from my people. I hope that I’m making you proud.”
Tracy Lewis, a Guyanese-born who spend her formative years in Guyana, returned to the US at age 17, where she enlisted as an Emergency Medical Technician, (EMT), later joining the New York Fire Department where she made history as the second black woman to reach lieutenant rank in Brooklyn. She is also the executive officer for the FDNY commissioner.
“I was raised Guyanese just like the first FDNY Deputy Commissioner Kinsella. Even though I’m Guyanese, I am living in America and yes, I’ve also adopted that culture, but I always try not to forget where I came from. In the fire department we always tell people don’t forget where you come from. I started in this department as a cadet, and I worked as an EMT. I’m currently a lieutenant, and I also work for the commissioner as her executive officer.”
“We talk about breaking glass ceilings, in 2024 women are in the forefront of everything, thanks to our Mayor Eric Adams. He put many women who are very qualified in positions to run the city.”
“I thank him also for putting my boss where she is. This is an example of bringing along others. This is what my parents, and grandparents who came to America to provide a better opportunity instilled in us. I hope that we also do the same for those that are coming after us because we stand on the shoulders of those people who came before us. I am grateful to be in this position and to help serve and help my community. Happy Independence Day,” said Lieutenant Lewis.
Professional Boxer, Elton Felix Dharry, who just returned from Guyana, winning his eighth fight, on his home turf, is a challenger for the WBA Super-flyweight title holder.
Dharry expressed gratitude to all who have supported his career that started at a very young age. He is the fifth ranking boxer in the Super Flyweight in the WBA.
“I am Guyanese to the bone. Many years ago, when I started boxing, I was told not to represent Guyana by people close to me, who said I was wasting my time. But I set goals 20 plus years ago and I’m determined to accomplish them. I’ve learned how to work hard, stay humble, and keep it moving. I will keep praying that God strengthens me, and show me the way to accomplish my goals, and I’ll keep working hard to represent my people. You’ll see a lot more of me. I’ll take home the championship to Guyana. I’ve been doing well so far, but I think I have a far way to go, so I’ll keep going until I can’t no more,” said Dharry.
Monarch Adrian Dutchen, singer of the hugely popular soca anthem, “I am a Guyanese,” said he never envisioned that his song would become internationally known.
“Coming up in Guyana I never really expected to be anything, or go anywhere, but I had one thing and that was God. I’m a firm believer in pray, being humble and to never forget where you come from. I started singing when I was only 12 years old, I am 43 years old today, and I’m still doing it. I must say thanks to Guyanese for giving me love and support. I wrote the song when I was sitting in an apartment in Brooklyn. I never thought it would have been so well received. I think the reason it became so popular, it’s because of the message.”
It’s in the heart of Guyanese, and it would be there long after I’m gone, because of what it stands for, said Dutchen, before breaking out with “I’m proud to still be me, I’ll always represent my country people overseas never deny your Guyanese, I’m repping in the evening, I’m repping in the day in the night. Anywhere I go, I got my GT flag. I am a Guyanese no matter where I be, I am a Guyanese.”
“Everywhere I perform in the world, Guyanese are always there waving their flag. We are all Guyanese. We are one people, one nation, one destiny, one Guyana,” expressed Dutchen.
Also presented with a plaque, was H. Mohabeer, a record store entrepreneur, who said he is thankful to be honored.
“I came to this country in 1983 without money and education and I achieved many things. Be humble, be honest and love everybody. If you’re satisfied with what you have, you get what you want, and you can accomplish a lot,” said Mohabeer, thanking Faiuze Ali for doing a wonderful job at the food pantry.
Guest speaker, Fazal Yussuff, advisor on Diaspora Affairs in the Guyana Consulate, extended 58th Independence Day greetings on behalf of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Vice President Bharrat Jegdeo, and Guyanese in the diaspora.
Yussuff, spoke of the Republic’s transformation, noting the ongoing road construction, the new Demerara Harbor bridge under construction, and incentive programs for the elderly and school children, noting that the government is working on behalf of all citizens.
“If you haven’t gone back home in a while, please do. We all might be living here but at the end of the day we all refer Guyana as home, our heart is always there, and I know each one of you will be welcomed back. The diaspora has been very important to the success and transformation. We thank you for all that you do in supporting Guyana. Happy Independence Day,” said Yussuff.
“Always show love and compassion to others. I am proud of my Guyanese culture and heritage. It’s a blessing to be serving this community. My family came from Guyana with not much, but instilled in me to treat others as you want to be treated, said Guyanese heritage, Berkley VanTull, captain, commanding officer of the 16 Precinct, who wished nationals a Happy Independence Day.
“Guyana Day USA, Inc. – New York Chapter has a team of dedicated volunteers who make the sacrifice giving of their precious time to help others through the food pantry,” said PR Director and Treasurer, Faiuze Ali.
“Every Saturday whether it rains, snows, cold or sunshine, these committed souls show up, and volunteer their time to see the community at large address food insecurity.”
“They ask nothing in return, demand no special treatment, or recognition for their services. Their love for humanity and their fellow human beings is their rewards! Kudos to these phenomenal volunteers,” said Ali, who organized the awards ceremony.
Community leaders, Adjunct Lecturer Borough of Manhattan, Chuck Mohan, and Dr. Dhanpaul Narine attended the celebration.
