Arrival Day message: ERC reaffirms its commitment to fostering harmony, understanding & respect

See below the Arrival Day message by the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC):

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends greetings to all Guyanese on Arrival Day 2024. 

This observance commemorates the historical and extensive indentureship period that began in 1834. May 5 also marks the anniversary of the arrival of our East Indian ancestors who reached these shores on this day in 1838, while on  May 3, 1835 the first batch of Portuguese arrived. The first batch of Chinese arrived in 1853 and some of our African ancestors also came as indentured servants.

Together, we now celebrate our heritage as one people bestowed with the diversity embodied by Arrival Day. 

Central to Arrival Day is the enduring contributions made by our forebears, whose resilience, perseverance and untold sacrifices have shaped the fabric of our nation and contributed to our unique mosaic of cultures.

As we commemorate Arrival Day, the ERC reaffirms its commitment to fostering harmony, understanding, and respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana. We recognize the importance of embracing our diversity as a source of strength and unity, and we call upon all Guyanese to promote tolerance, inclusivity, and mutual respect in our communities.

Let us honour the sacrifices and contributions of our ancestors by building a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for future generations. Together, let us celebrate our shared heritage and continue to work towards a brighter, more harmonious future for all.

Happy Arrival Day!