Portuguese Arrival Day celebrates their contribution to Guyana’s development
DPI, Guyana, Sunday, May 3, 2020
One hundred and eighty-five years after their arrival, Guyana continues to acknowledge the contributions made by the Portuguese.
His Excellency President David Granger in a statement on Sunday noted that “Portuguese Arrival Day celebrates the contribution which persons of Portuguese ancestry have made to nation-building.”
Since their arrival, the Portuguese have contributed significantly to the country’s development particularly in the areas of agriculture, commerce, culture, education, law, manufacturing, religion, social organisations, shipping and sport.
This the Head of State said, “has not been diminished or devalued with the passage of time.”
On the 27 February 2017, President Granger issued a public notice proclaiming 3rd May each year as Portuguese Arrival Day.
This is intended to strengthen national integration and social cohesion by according due respect and recognition to the various ethnic groups which belong to our multicultural society.
The President remarked that like all other ethnic groups, the Portuguese, are integral to the multicultural character of our nation. He also extended “sincere best wishes to all Guyanese especially those of Portuguese descent on the occasion of Portuguese Arrival Day.”