GAWU observes 61st death anniversary of Kowsilla

On International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, a heartfelt gathering took place Saturday morning, March 8, as members of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) were joined by comrades from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), and residents from Anna Catherina and neighbouring communities, to honour the memory of Kowsilla, also known as Alice, who died tragically March 6, 1964.
Alice’s life was cut short in a heartbreaking incident involving a scab-driven tractor while she stood in solidarity with the striking sugar workers at Leonora Estate. They were bravely protesting against the unjust treatment by the expatriate management, and advocating for the recognition of GAWU.
The loss of Kowsilla became a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights, and was one of the many sacrifices that eventually led to the Union’s recognition in 1976.
For years, GAWU has held a simple yet powerful wreath-laying ceremony at Kowsilla’s graveside in the Anna Catherina cemetery, honouring her as a heroine and drawing inspiration from her sacrifice for sugar workers across the nation.

Among those laying wreaths were Seepaul Narine, President of GAWU; Minister Sonia Parag, representing H.E. President Irfaan Ali; Neil Kumar, from the PPP; Shelia Veersammy, General Secretary of the WPO; Carvil Duncan, President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), and Omesh Satyanand, Vice Chairman, Region Three Regional Democratic Council.
Other individuals and GAWU branch officials also laid wreaths, reflecting the deep respect for Kowsilla’s enduring legacy.
During his tribute, GAWU’s president acknowledged Kowsilla’s heroism, and the deep sadness surrounding her untimely death. He articulated that while the incident brought sorrow, it galvanised a determined resolve to secure the Union’s recognition.
Kowsilla’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that continues to inspire sugar workers throughout the country. He also expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of President Ali and his Government, which has remained steadfast in its commitment to the sugar industry’s future.
Minister Parag spoke movingly of Kowsilla’s contributions to the pursuit of progress and equity. She emphasised that this ordinary woman had carved her place in our history, becoming a true heroine for all.
The Minister highlighted the Government’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens, especially women, and praised President Ali’s dedication to uplifting women in particular.
WPO’s General Secretary Shelia Veersammy reflected on the tangible strides women have made since Kowsilla’s time and the ongoing efforts of the Government to empower them.
FITUG President, Carvil Duncan, addressed the gathering with concerns for our territorial integrity, urging everyone to unite with our Government in this respect.
Neil Kumar echoed the spirit of Kowsilla, recalling how her actions were fuelled by the collective aspiration of sugar workers and inspired by the visionary leadership of Dr Cheddi Jagan and his wife, Janet.
The observance of Kowsilla is not merely a commemoration, it is a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by GAWU and sugar workers in their fight for dignity, social justice, and fairness in the industry. It resonates deeply within the hearts of those who continue to carry the torch of her legacy.