GHDS salutes resilience, indomitable spirit of immigrants

Highlighting the importance of paying tribute to the indefatigable and indomitable spirit of the Indian indentured immigrants, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) has said that their contributions have helped in shaping Guyana.
In celebration of Arrival Day on Thursday, the Sabha reflected on the contributions of ancestors who arrived as indentured immigrants to then British Guiana.
“Arrival Day gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and salute the visible and tangible imprints of their presence and impact in multiple spheres in our country. From the earliest days of struggle and sacrifice, they demonstrated remarkable resilience and courage in the face of hardship, callous and inhumane living and working conditions,” their statement underscored.
The organisation added that there are multiple stories of their resistance against colonialism and the struggle for an independent Guyana under better conditions.
“Our country has benefited tremendously from their invaluable contributions in diverse spheres. Their industriousness in the agricultural sector in the earliest years and thereafter has been impactful, and benefited Guyana’s economy for decades. We recognise the remarkable foundation they laid for their descendants and all Guyanese to build on. We are grateful for their dedication in preserving a rich culture filled with beautiful traditions, creating a heritage that contributes to Guyana’s kaleidoscope of festivals, cultural practices, national cuisine, and everyday life.
“As Guyanese, their missive outlined that much can be learned by the courage and unity displayed by the immigrants against undemocratic practices and colonialism, consistent and ceaseless work to develop their community and country, and their respect and love for each other, that endured beyond the indentureship time and biological ties.
The GHDS noted, “They have left an enduring and rich heritage that is enjoyed today in the foods we eat, the clothing we wear, the festivals that are part of the national tapestry of diverse cultures. We are fortunate, as a country, to enjoy the diversity of the peoples who came, and to be able to look back with pride on all their contributions, and to have a legacy that is uniquely beautiful and varied.
It added, “We have enjoyed peaceful and religious harmony, and we must always use this to bridge all other barriers that may exist, remembering our ancestors’ collective struggles and arduous journeys in those early days of our country’s history. As descendants of those who came as indentured immigrants, we have much to be proud of, and to be grateful for, and build on. We continue to celebrate our culture, our heritage and our traditions.”