The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends warmest greetings to the indigenous peoples and all Guyanese in observance of Heritage Month 2022. The culture of our first peoples is uniquely intertwined with the Guyanese nation and multi-ethnic identity.

Fortunately, it is befitting to remind that Guyana remains one of the few territories in the Caribbean where nine indigenous ethnic groups reside, adding to the country’s unique cultural diversity.

Once again, the indigenous culture will be shared for others to experience in the month-long observances, with its rich customary foods and beverages that many Guyanese enjoy. In that regard, the Commission encourages Guyanese of other ethnic groups to participate in the observances, connecting with the indigenous peoples and recognizing their contributions.

Since Independence from colonial rule, indigenous cultural practices have become more embedded and are welcomed alongside the African, East Indian, Portuguese and Chinese cultures in our plural society. Let’s persist in that practice of tolerance. Happy Heritage Month from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

September 1, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Emancipation greetings to all African Guyanese at home and abroad on this milestone to mark the end of slavery. The Commission joins hands with all Guyanese on this 184th anniversary to reflect on the importance of freedom – a basic human right for all.

The ancestral experience was dominated by bondage for centuries and to muster the courage to change and shape the future ended many times with lethal consequences. That experience began with the ships at sea transporting their chained human cargo to faraway lands, including British Guiana. It was inevitable that the initial foundations of the colony of British Guiana were laid by the sacrifices of the bondsmen, not omitting contributions made much later by other ethnicities. Let’s therefore seek to define a common future as One People on the cusp of further development.

The contributions of our African compatriots in the beginning are indelible and serve as poignant reminders. Looking back, we can all learn from their experiences while faced with the changing dynamics of this century.

Happy Emancipation Anniversary to all from the management and staff of the Ethnic Relations Commission!

August 1, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends warmest EID – UL – ADHA greetings to Muslims and all Guyanese on this annual observance.

The national holiday which translates as the ‘festival of sacrifice’ is a symbolic Islamic principle for all humanity; obedience to God and the message associated with sacrifice. The ERC urges all to heed the universal message of EID – UL – ADHA for a better Guyana – render support to each other, especially in situations of need.

Sharing during this holiday to the less fortunate, neighbours and friends is commendable and in recognition of the brotherhood existing among Guyanese. The observance remains a beacon of inspiration, guidance and motivation for all of us to build and promote national harmony. The lessons of sacrifice and humility must inspire us all as Guyanese.

Moreover, the Commission supports the thrust of this countrywide observance which strengthens ties with other ethnic groups in our multi-cultural society. The ERC is positive that our status as ‘One People’ is given deeper meaning during EID – UL – ADHA celebrations every year.

The national holiday represents another veritable example of the peaceful co-existence all Guyanese enjoy and the religious freedoms that are allowed. The ERC reiterates on this holiday that Guyanese of all ethnicities can draw important messages and principles from each other’s observances on the cultural calendar.

Eid Mubarak from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

July 9, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends warmest greetings to all Guyanese on Independence Day. Political independence was granted after bitter struggle, but all ethnic groups now share one independent homeland, in freedom for more than half a century.

Cultural and religious freedoms continue to flourish; the ERC congratulates all Guyanese for continuing, in any small way, to cement the ties of diversity that bind everyone together as One People. Independence spurred intensified efforts to promote the growth of tolerance and respect. It blossomed with multi-ethnic national holidays and sharing in each other’s cultural festivities.

The breakaway from the grip of colonial rule, spearheaded by the selfless efforts of heroes of yore, climaxed 56 years ago in May, 1966. The lowering of the Union Jack for the last time and hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead for the first, ushered in the birth of One Nation – represented by diverse peoples including our own indigenous citizens.

The mammoth undertaking of nation-building rests on the shoulders of every citizen, traversing a common path together to attain One Destiny in peace and prosperity. Let’s continue to remember that our ancestors travelled from different lands across the Atlantic and laid the foundations of independence in struggle.

With commitment to country and recognition of our aspirations, the stage is set for adding more building blocks to achieve a more harmonious multi-ethnic society which we all desire. Our National Motto reminds us of that!

Happy Independence to all Guyanese from the Management and Staff of the ERC!

May 26, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends greetings to all Guyanese on the observance of Arrival Day 2022. It commemorates the arrival, at different historical points, of numerous indentured servants in a hodgepodge of diverse cultures to replace slave labor on the sugar plantations.

The role of the colonial power, without argument, was responsible for facilitating a labour supply made up of different faces who made unique contributions. The ERC reiterates the need for Guyanese of all ethnicities to remember their history which has irreversibly shaped our country.

Today, we celebrate the enrichment of diversity that Arrival Day embodies in the shaping of modern Guyana. Arrival Day is most significant for what it represents in the context of the multi-faceted mosaic it created and for which our country is known.

We are multi-ethnic as a result of the untold sacrifices, desires and steadfastness of our ancestors, to practice and preserve their rich and colourful cultural traditions. As One Guyana, it is evident that many participate meaningfully in each other’s festivities that have become truly national observances.

Over time, that rich, beautiful and vibrant diversity has become our strength and common bond in the process of becoming one people, working towards a common destiny.

Happy Arrival Day to all!

May 5, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Labour Day greetings to all workers throughout the country. The ERC salutes the Guyanese working class who represent different ethnicities and are all a driving force in the economy. Their forebears faced many painful challenges, some insurmountable in their quest for decent work and a living wage.

The Commission joins the social partners represented by government, employers, employees and the trade unions in recognizing those who toil for the mammoth, unending task of social and economic growth; increase in productivity is achieved through their collective efforts.

The past two years of the pandemic has been nothing short of challenging as the working class people had to adjust and adapt to ways of staying productive while being Covid-19 safe. The Commission remains hopeful that the waning pandemic will continue to reduce its morbid effects on the working population for the sake of improved livelihoods.

The labour movement represents an important constituency and the hurdles it faces in the workplace are brought under focus in the ERC’s desire for a cohesive society. Rapid globalisation and all its aspects is also confronting the Guyanese working people in the challenge for a living wage. The ERC therefore, embraces any initiative to empower citizens of any ethnicity through education and training to prepare them for an accelerating Guyanese economy.

Happy Labour Day to All!

May 1, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Easter greetings to all Christians and fellow Guyanese at home and the diaspora.

In yet another national observance enjoyed by all ethnicities, Easter is traditionally known as a time when Guyanese truly come together, with many participating in kite-flying across the country. Easter befits the true spirit of our national holidays which continue to foster togetherness of our peoples from many cultures.

Every Guyanese deserves commendation, for the high level of tolerance that exists for their country’s continued religious and cultural progress. Let’s continue together to traverse that path.

Easter signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ and that inspirational turning point offers to mankind a universal message; there is always hope for a new beginning in the face of adversity. It brings comfort and motivation, that there is a path to continuity even in what may be seen as the end.

That is pertinent in all spheres of life – to muster courage and optimism while in despair. As the kites soar and buzz high in the skies once more, let it symbolize our collective and sustained efforts in rising to the challenges to remove the barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice.

The ERC also urges Guyanese to ensure that the true significance and message of Easter remain alive. Let the teachings of Jesus Christ be that guiding hand in our efforts to promote harmony and good relations across our dear land.

Peace and fellowship for the Easter holidays!

April 14, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Hindu community at home and the diaspora. Over time, this colourful national festival which marks the arrival of spring is greeted with participation by Guyanese from other ethnic groups, who evidently discard religious and cultural barriers.

The burst of colours is seen in the towns and villages during this joyous occasion but, for our young nation it exhibits the vibrant mix of our rich diversity which defines who we are as a people. It represents an achievement stemming from a combination of efforts as we endeavor together to be one people.

The fun and frolic associated with Phagwah, or Holi, is more than celebratory. It also serves to bring together Guyanese from all walks of life. The Commission urges all to celebrate and internalize the significance of Holi. Significant in its underlying message is the triumph of good over evil for the progress of humanity, as the story of young Prahlad illustrates in the Hindu scriptures.

Phagwah is also indicative of how, as a nation we embrace our cultural diversity. That therefore, offers relevant lessons for us all and is an impetus for increased and sustained efforts to build upon our unified strengths and improve on weaknesses. Such national occasions allow for improvement of our capacity to overcome inherent challenges to foster togetherness.

The Commission encourages everyone to observe Phagwah while remembering the recurring theme of its messages.

SHUBH HOLI TO ALL!

March 17, 2022

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Republic Day greetings to all Guyanese – citizens who represent many cultures coexisting in one country.

The ERC recognizes that 52 years ago, in 1970, an independent Guyana took the final step towards republicanism. It paved the way for the country to remove the last vestiges of colonial rule, and to freely retain the rich cultural heritage of its peoples.

That heritage is celebrated and remains largely intact today, evolving in harmony and side-by-side with each other. The unique Guyanese nation is steadily on a path to further consolidate its cultural gains and freedoms as a Republic.

The Commission fully acknowledges and supports this year’s anniversary theme promoted by the Ministry of Culture: “Mashramani 2022, resolute in building our One Guyana” which smoothly coincides with the ERC’s mandate.

The constitutional body therefore calls on Guyanese to rally around this year’s message and to be free in spirit to attain togetherness. Our ethnic diversity remains alive and continues to blossom as one mixed collection.

While activities for Mashramani have partially returned in the ongoing pandemic, government’s scheduled programme of events on 23rd February gives credit to the important milestone; Guyanese are still able to bond, although in a limited way to observe the Republic anniversary of their country.

Happy Republic Day!

February 22, 2022