National unity urged in preserving indigenous heritage at Amerindian cultural extravaganza

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai has called on all Guyanese to work together to preserve and celebrate Indigenous culture, heritage, and traditions, stressing that the knowledge, languages, and artistic expressions of Amerindian communities remain vital threads woven into the nation’s identity.
Speaking at the Amerindian Heritage Cultural Extravaganza at the National Park on Monday evening, Minister Sukhai underscored the importance of safeguarding and promoting Indigenous heritage.
“It is fundamental that we continue to promote our culture and heritage, to ensure that we revive our language, we keep our cuisine, and we work hand in hand so that the stories, languages, and vibrant traditions of our people continue to be celebrated, respected, and cherished in the heart of our society,” she said.
She emphasised that Heritage Month should not only be a time of festivities but also a period of reflection and renewal of commitment to building a society where every culture is actively celebrated and every voice is acknowledged.
Amerindian Heritage Month 2025, observed under the theme “Igniting Unity, Celebrating Progress, Advancing Our Culture,” serves as a reminder of the profound contributions Indigenous peoples have made and continue to make to Guyana’s development.
“As we commemorate Amerindian Heritage Month, we are reminded that the knowledge, traditions, languages, and artistic expressions of the Amerindian peoples are not merely remnants of our past – they are dynamic threads intricately woven into the fabric of our national identity,” Sukhai added.
The Minister expressed gratitude to Amerindian communities for their patience and partnership with Government policies, pointing to the leadership of President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Administration in expanding opportunities for Indigenous people. She noted that successive PPP/C Governments have played a central role in legislating, protecting, and supporting Indigenous culture.
She highlighted that the Government has been investing heavily in Amerindian development – from education and healthcare to infrastructure and culture. Initiatives include expanded scholarships for Indigenous students, telemedicine centres to improve healthcare in remote regions, and infrastructure upgrades such as roads and bridges to better connect villages.
Cultural investments have also been made, with support for the preservation of Indigenous languages, revival of traditional practices, and the promotion of Amerindian arts and crafts at both local and international levels.
“The Ali-led administration has paved the way for a brighter, more inclusive future through policies that ensure no community is left behind. From education and healthcare to village infrastructure and cultural promotion, the Government’s commitment resonates deeply within Amerindian communities,” the Minister affirmed.
Sukhai further commended Amerindian leaders and village councils for their partnership in advancing development, noting that Indigenous stewardship of Guyana’s forests makes them key partners in climate action and environmental protection.
She concluded her remarks by urging all Guyanese to celebrate Amerindian Heritage Month with joy, respect, and a renewed sense of purpose, while working collectively to safeguard the legacy of the first peoples for future generations.