Guyanese in New York, on Feb. 23, this day in 1970, when the country became a democracy, came together to commemorate the 55th Anniversary of the Republic with an Interfaith church service and a colorful Mashramani costume presentation.
The pews of St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church at 331 Hawthorne St. in Brooklyn were packed with celebrants in national colors at the hours-long thanksgiving, organized by Consul General Ambassador Michael E. Brotherson, Permanent Representative to the United Nations Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, and staff members in collaboration with the Guyana Cultural Association, NY Inc.
In his remarks, Ambassador Brotherson congratulated Guyanese at home and abroad and reminded them that gaining Republican status meant that “our nation’s destiny was firmly placed in the hands of our people. Over the years, the people of Guyana, through our collective efforts and patriotism, have worked with diligence and tenacity to help build a nation of profound worth and accomplishments.”
“This year’s Republic Anniversary is being celebrated with immense national pride as we reflect on our collective achievements and the resilience of our people. In honor of this milestone, the Government of Guyana today initiated a video display at the iconic Times Square in New York City. This symbolic representation of our nation’s progress will be aired three times per hour, 24 hours a day, until March 1, 2025, and will showcase Guyana’s growing global presence.“
“Guyana’s economic trajectory over the past decade has been extraordinary, passing international expectations with remarkable growth. In recent years, our nation has achieved outstanding Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates, positioning us as one of the fastest-growing economies globally,” said the diplomat.
“While this robust expansion was primarily driven by the growing oil sector, the Government of Guyana at the same time prudently invested in programs that are aimed at expanding and transforming the non-oil economy and addressing our nation’s development needs,” said Ambassador Brotherson.
“The Government of Guyana is committed to utilizing this economic wealth to foster inclusive national development. Investments are being made in the infrastructure of new highways, bridges, hospitals, schools, and the modernization of our ports.
Ambassador Brotherson said, “Our groundbreaking gas pipeline project is underway, a project that will deliver affordable energy to industries and households and further enhance the lives of Guyanese.“
He noted, ” Under President Ali’s visionary leadership, Guyana remains steadfast in its mission to become a key supplier of food security for the Caribbean. Through the “Vision 25 by 2025“ initiative, we aim to reduce the region’s food import bill significantly. This ambitious goal is being realized through strategic investments in agriculture, the adoption of advanced technologies, and strengthening regional and international cooperation.”
“Our Republic Anniversary provides an opportunity for us to reflect on what has gone before. I believe that as we engage in this introspection, we must identify how we as individuals can assist in further unifying and developing our nation,” he said.
“Let us remember that a nation united in celebration stands resilient in times of adversity. Our shared history and common aspirations bind us as one people with one destiny. Let us continue to uphold the cultures of togetherness, diligence, and inclusiveness that define us as a proud and independent nation and a One Guyana,“ said CG Brotherson.
Against a backdrop of patriotic songs led by the Anniversary Celebration Choir and the waving of the country’s national flag, Rector, the Reverend Cannon Donovan I. Leys welcomed congregants and prayed for Guyanese families.
“Take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts. Unite us in bonds of love. Work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth so that all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne,“ prayed the clergy.
The Guyana Cultural Association NY Inc. president, Ave Marie-Brewster-Haynes, lauded the organization for its 25 years of service to patrons. She noted that the body established by a group of culturally conscious, patriotic children of Guyana remains in safe hands to preserve, promote, and propagate Guyanese creativity in the diaspora.
“Because of you, our quarter-century of service to the community was due to your unwavering support and contributions of time, talent, and treasure, for which we are eternally grateful, Brewster-Haynes said.
Nermala Balkaran, a leader at the Arya Spiritual Center, chanted the Gayatri mantra, one of the oldest and most powerful Sanskrit mantras that embody wisdom, through intersession in her prayer for love and unity, as Vice Consul Jeff McNaughton’s scripture alluded to.
Shaykn Safraz Bacchus, imam and spiritual leader of Masjid Al Abdin, reflected on Guyana’s motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny.
“This powerful phrase reminds us that we are united by love for our land, our culture, and our future aspiration,“ he said as he prayed for the nation, noting that “the message of love and unity must always be emphasized.”
These sentiments were evident in the words of Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues, who noted, “We must see our diversity, in Guyana and wherever we may live, as a source of strength and not a source for division. It is our diversity, while born out of the original presence of our Indigenous peoples, the horrors of slavery and indentureship, that makes us an interesting and beautiful country. We must spare no effort in ensuring that the continuous project of cultivating unity as One Guyana is not derailed.”
“It is in this light that our government, led by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, is using the resources with which our country is blessed to continue to invest in our people, to uphold our democracy, and to ensure the stability of our nation,” said Ambassador Birkett.
“Let us pray for our President and those that are entrusted with the leadership of our country, in the Parliament and the executive, and for our men and women in uniform and all our public officers, and contribute to unity, harmony, and peace, both in Guyana, here, and in the world at large,“ she said.
The celebration commenced with the lustily singing of the National Anthem by prominent baritone Anthony Allen, attended by Advisor Investment & Diaspora Affairs, Fazal Yussuf, Ambassador Trishala Persaud, the Consular Corps, blessed by Avis Penny Bascom, and celebrated with rhythmic drumming by Winston’ Jeggae’ Hoppie continued with exuberant music, and jubilation, in the church’s Golden Hall.
During the proceedings, Council Member Farah N. Louis, District 45, where Guyanese live, congratulated expatriates and presented a Citation to Ambassadors Michael E. Brotherson and Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett in recognition of Guyana’s 55th Republic Anniversary.
In turn, GCA Executive Director Claire Patterson-Monah accepted a Citation in honor of the organization’s 25th Anniversary. Council Member Rita Joseph, District 40, also extended greetings to nationals.
The stupendous entertainment against the backdrop of a digital screen showcasing a video of Guyana’s culture, on display in historic Times Square until March.
Doris Rodney, proprietor, served delicious cuisine before a colorful Mashramani finale by the Demerara Dancers, and Saraswatie Dance Academy got celebrants on their feet for an exciting and memorable commemoration.
Royston Alkins and Stephanie Savory, first secretaries, Permanent Mission of Guyana to the UN, shared remarks and issued a vote of thanks, respectively.
