49th flag raising garners large youth participation
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, February 23, 2019
Deemed larger than previous years the country’s 49th Republic Anniversary Flag Raising ceremony garnered huge youth participation demonstrated in colourful, breath-taking and effortless performances at the D’urban Park this evening.
This year’s ceremony focused on the nation’s future leaders and fostering a sense of national pride and appreciation for the struggle of those who led the fight for Guyana’s independence and nationhood.
Organised by the Ministry of Social Cohesion, several of the performances truly represented and celebrated Guyana’s six peoples. This was followed by a stunning display by the Guards of Honour which included ranks from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the National Cadets, National Coast Guards among others accumulating to a 400-strong parade.
Under the theme, “Our El Dorado” dancers depicted various sectors which included Black Gold paying tribute to Guyana’s emerging oil industry; Golden Treasures which paid homage to turtle conservation in Region One; Food Basket which celebrated the agricultural industries in Regions Two, Three, Five and Six; Nation Building which recognised the hard work of Guyana’s labour force; Gems which celebrates the gold, diamond and bauxite industries of Region Seven and Ten; Majestic Beauty which celebrates the rich biodiversity of the Kaieteur National Park in Region Eight; Rodeo Country which pays tribute to the culture of rodeos and finally Not a Blade of Grass.
Onlookers were also treated to show from the 2019’s Carib Soca Monarch Brandon Harding, Chutney Monarch Steven Ramphal and Diana Chapman who place third in this year’s Calypso Competition. There were also renditions by the National School of Music String Band, the Police Military Band and a Combined Choir among others.
Speaking with the Department of Public Information, Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton said this year’s event is one that he is proud of, as it represents a perfect example of the ministry’s effort to foster cohesion and an appreciation of our unique diversity across the country.
“I am so glad that we were able to have the programme at the D’urban Park without any hiccups tonight. Everyone got to see the Golden Arrowhead in all of its glory as it was hoisted,” the minister said. He encouraged persons to come in numbers for on Mash Day and participate in the jollification.
“This holiday is one that needs to be celebrated by all, especially youths, as it represents a victory for our country and the efforts of our ancestors who fought to be free… so I hope that they could come tomorrow and enjoy themselves and remember what it is that we are observing and be proud to be part of a Republic,” Minister Norton noted.
The evening concluded with the raising of the Golden Arrowhead on the 180-foot flagpole and an eye-catching firework show. This year’s Republic Day is being celebrated under the theme “Celebrate Mash 49 with Victory in Mind”.
Guyana gained its independence in 1966 and soon became a Republic on February 23, 1970.
Neola Damon.
Images: Marceano Narine and Keno George.