Amerindian Heritage Month 2024 was officially launched on Wednesday, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples. The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, in collaboration with the National Toshaos Council (NTC), hosted the inaugural event at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown.
This year’s celebration, themed “Many Voices, One Song: Celebrating Amerindian Heritage 2024,” promises a series of new and diverse activities aimed at honouring and preserving the traditions of Guyana’s first people.
Member of Parliament Alistair Charlie delivered the keynote address, emphasising the historical journey that has elevated the prominence of Amerindian Heritage Month. He reminded attendees that September was designated Amerindian Heritage Month by the late President Dr. Cheddi Jagan in 1995, to ensure that the contributions, culture, and history of Guyana’s Indigenous communities are celebrated and preserved.
“Amerindian Heritage Month serves as a beacon of our commitment to justice, equity, and the recognition of the unique cultural heritage that our Amerindian communities contribute to our national identity,” MP Charlie stated.
This year’s activities include a poem and jingle competition, the inaugural “Amerindians Got Talent” (AGT) showcase, educational lectures, and events held under the moonlight. These initiatives, being introduced for the first time, aim to deepen public engagement with Amerindian culture.
Campbelltown in Region Eight has been designated as this year’s heritage village. The month’s events will also feature an Amerindian interfaith service, a cultural extravaganza, crafts and cuisine fairs, cultural nights, a fitness walk, an art exhibition, and heritage sports. A highlight of the month will be the heritage sports competition, which is expected to draw hundreds of athletes from Amerindian villages across Guyana’s ten administrative regions.
The launch ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic community, NTC executive members, and other prominent officials, marking the beginning of a month-long celebration of Guyana’s Indigenous heritage.