Min. Norton celebrates Arrival Day in Berbice
-Lauds IAC for grand Mela
Following the commissioning of the Indian Immigration Monument on Sunday – Arrival Day, May 5, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton journeyed from the monument site at Palmyra, Berbice to the Albion Sports Complex where he further celebrated the 181 anniversary of the arrival of East Indians to Guyana.
The celebration took the form of a grand Mela organised by the Indian Action Committee (IAC). Minister Norton who also holds the responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport was tasked with delivering the feature address to the gathering.
Dr. Norton explained that while ‘Arrival Day’ honours the coming of all of our ancestors to Guyana, it is celebrated each year, on the exact date that our East Indian ancestors first stepped onto these shores as Indentured Labourers.
“On May 5, 1838 – 181 years ago, the first batch of East Indian Immigrants arrived at Highbury, right here in the ancient county of Berbice,” Minister Norton reminded.
He reflected on Guyana’s turbulent colonial history which saw East Indians fighting tirelessly against the cruel practices of Indentureship, which eventually ended in 1917.
“Despite all that they went through on these shores, our East Indian foreparents were able to recognise this land for the beautiful and bountiful magnificence that it is,” Dr. Norton pointed out.
He added that “More importantly, instead of returning to a country where everyone shared similar cultures, beliefs and traditions, all of our ancestors chose to remain in Guyana and embrace the vibrant diversity that emerged with the presence of six distinct peoples – the Indigenous Peoples, the Europeans, Africans, East Indians, Portuguese and Chinese.”
Minister Norton said that every Guyanese should take pride in the fact that “Together, our foreparents have built a nation that stands tall as a force to be reckoned with; a country of rich history, resources and vibrant heritage.”
He added, “Our ancestors have entrusted us with a great legacy – one that we must protect, preserve and carry on.”
Minister Norton believes that Guyana’s history is a simple, but indelible reminder of how important it is for all Guyanese to work together in propelling the nation to prosperity.
“I believe that a rich, prosperous future awaits us all,” Dr. Norton said.
The Minister also lauded the IAC for its commitment to sustaining the Indian culture in Guyana, as well as the annual Melas hosted to celebrate that culture.
The IAC Albion Mela featured a lineup of rich East Indian talent, including well known singers such as Bunty Singh and Arijit Singh, along with the Berbice Delights Dance Troupe and many others.
Despite the rains, Guyanese from all walks of life filled the venue for glimpses of the mesmerizing Indo-Guyanese talents that decorated the stage.