Dear Editor,
This letter serves as a response to recent opposing views regarding the Jonestown Memorial Tour and its value as part of Guyana’s historical narrative. As the tour operator behind the Jonestown Memorial Tour, I wish to address some misconceptions and explain the purpose and approach of this experience.
Jonestown is undeniably a tragic part of Guyana’s history, but it is also an event of global significance, offering critical lessons about cult psychology, manipulation, and the abuse of power. Our tour does not seek to exploit or sensationalize the tragedy, it is a carefully researched and thoughtfully designed experience aimed at educating those who want to understand what happened, why it happened, and the lessons the world can draw from it.
This initiative is not for everyone, nor do we present it as a typical tourist attraction. It is for those who are curious, reflective, and committed to ensuring that history does not repeat itself. Our work has involved extensive research, fact-checking, interviews, and community engagement. The people of Port Kaituma, who lived on the periphery of Jonestown have been integral to this process and have welcomed the effort to tell the full story.
Throughout the world, there are numerous examples of tours that explore challenging histories to educate and foster awareness. For instance, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial in Poland, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Japan, and the 9/11 Memorial in the United States all serve as sites of reflection and education. These locations attract visitors not to revel in tragedy but to better understand the events, honor those affected, and ensure that such histories are not repeated or forgotten. The Jonestown Memorial Tour follows a similar purpose.
While some view Jonestown as a stain on Guyana, we see it as an opportunity to reclaim the narrative. For too long, misconceptions have dominated public perception, painting an inaccurate image of Guyana’s role in the events. The reality is that Jonestown was primarily an American tragedy that occurred on Guyanese soil. The majority of those involved victims and perpetrators were Americans, drawn into the orbit of Jim Jones and his manipulative practices long before they arrived in our country.
As a nation, we should not shy away from history, however difficult it may be. To do so is to ignore the opportunity to educate others about the dangers of blind allegiance and unchecked power. Guyana has much to be proud of, but our history, like that of any nation, includes moments that demand reflection and understanding.
It is important to clarify that our guides are thoroughly trained and knowledgeable. This is not a casual retelling of events; it is a carefully curated experience that contextualizes Jonestown within broader social, political, and psychological frameworks. We are committed to telling this story accurately and respectfully, ensuring that those who take the tour leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the tragedy.
Jonestown will always be a challenging topic, but to pretend it did not happen or to avoid addressing it is to do a disservice to history. Our aim is to ensure that those who choose to visit leave with knowledge, perspective, and a recognition of the resilience of the Guyanese people and communities like Port Kaituma, who have lived in the shadow of these events for decades.
Sincerely,
Roselyn Sewcharran,
Tour Operator, Jonestown
Memorial Tour
Wanderlust
Adventures GY
