Return to the days of brotherhood and unity – Min Norton urges Guyanese
─ 4th Social Cohesion Day hosted at National Cultural Centre
DPI, Guyana, Monday, May 13, 2019
Today, the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport’s fourth National Social Cohesion Day was held at the National Culture Centre (NCC) with messages of love, unity and harmony throughout its cultural programme.
In brief remarks, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton said that social cohesion was once a reality for our ancestors, but this was lost over the years, and the department hopes to reunite all citizens to achieve a more cohesive society.
“Even though many years have passed, I believed that the spirit of social cohesion is very much alive in our hearts, today, as Guyanese… I am tempted to believe that we also are desirous of experiencing the good old days… Through the programmes and participation undertaken by the department, we are hoping to return Guyana to those days.”
The minister added that with this vision in mind, the department will continue in its mission to promote inclusive societies on a national level in keeping with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 16 which aims to “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels”.
Minister Norton stressed that the unity and harmony displayed during the past are deemed essential for humanity in the 21st century. He hopes this initiative inspires others to join in the “unity wagon” to assist in propelling the nation’s prosperity.
“Your presence here today is an indication that this noble venture has your support. The unity and brotherhood that existed back then coupled with the technology we have today can lead us to achieve more than what our minds can comprehend.”
Since entering office in 2015, the minister said, the Coalition Government spoke volumes where unity is concerned. He underscored that the government is not ‘talking the talk’ but ‘walking the walk’ since the nation’s diversity is its greatest strength.
As promised by the Acting Programme Coordinator, Natasha Singh-Lewis, the department’s cultural programme represented each ethnic group and also allowed participants the opportunity to join their youth programmes. The department also honoured Ingrid De Vair, resident and Programme host of Radio Orealla, for her contribution in promoting social cohesion within her community.
Those also present at the ceremony included First Lady Sandra Granger, Minister with responsibility for Youth Affairs, Simona Broomes, Minister within Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma.
Neola Damon
Images: Marceano Narine