Rose Hall Martyrs remembered for their bravery 105 years later

March 13, 2018

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DPI, GUYANA, Tuesday, March 13, 2018

The fifteen Rose Hall Martyrs who lost their lives 105 years ago, were remembered during a small yet significant wreath-laying ceremony held at the Rose Hall Memorial Site, Canje, Berbice.

Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton laying a wreath during the remembrance ceremony of the Rose Hall Martyrs.

Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton said the heroic act of the martyrs must not be forgotten as their efforts played a critical role in the lives we live today. “Not only must we be proud and recognize their contribution to the world we live in today here in Guyana, but as Guyanese, we must emulate the bravery of those fallen heroes. As Guyanese, we need to stand firmly to guard against injustices.”

According to Minister Norton, safeguarding against injustice is a job not only for individuals but for “families but also friends, neighbours, and Guyana as a whole.”

The memorial ceremony was also attended by Regional Executive Officer of Region Six, Kim Williams-Stephen, Director of Culture, Tamika Boatswain and other officials.

REO Williams-Stephen reminded that 15 Martyrs lost their lives in a quest to provide a good life for future generations and encouraged all to work together to ensure the Martyrs’ efforts were not in vain.

“If Guyana and the people of Rose Hall and the People of New Amsterdam are to have that life, that better life that our ancestors would have struggled and fought for to the end of their death as we are commemorating today. Then is it not time for us to put our energies together, to ensure that we have that good life.”

The Martyrs 15 were shot dead by colonial police after protesting Manager James Smith’s decision to withhold a promise of four days of additional holidays. The slain sugar workers were Badri 26, Gobindei, 32, Lalji 45, Sadulla 23, Bholay 33, Hulas 25, Motey Khan 26, Sarjoo 21, Durga 72, Jugai 30, Nibur 75, Sohan 33, Gafur 27, Juggoo 37 and Roopan 25.