Dear Editor,
Guyana’s national flag, the Golden Arrow, was raised in Bowling Green Square (BGS) by New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Guyana’s NY Consul General Ambassador Michael Brotherson to mark the country’s 59th Independence celebration. The event took place at the small open public park that is nestled amidst historic buildings such as the US Customs House, Cunard, Bowling Green Offices, and the International Mercantile Company. Attendees included the Caribbean Consular Corps and its Chair Jeremy Hyacinth.
This site was where the Guyana flag was hoisted for the 58th independence anniversary in May 2024. Chosen for its history, BGS is the oldest park in New York City, established by the British in 1733. Nearby is the Dutch Fort of New Amsterdam.
A Guyanese folk group, called “Rickford Dalgetty and Troupe,” opened the event with popular Guyanese folk songs. Despite some sporadic dark clouds, no rain fell, allowing the outdoor program to continue smoothly. Mayor Eric Adams, an ardent supporter of immigrant communities including Guyanese, was the chief guest. He was introduced by NYC First Deputy Police Commissioner, Tania Kinsella, of Guyanese origin. Mayor Adams congratulated Guyana on its 59th independence anniversary and expressed his appreciation for the Guyanese diaspora by presenting the Guyana Consulate with a NYC Proclamation, highlighting ties between New York and Guyana.
The feature address was delivered by NYC Consul General Ambassador Michael Brotherson. “I am happy to welcome Mayor Eric Adams at our national day celebration. Mr. Mayor, we appreciate your presence and the excellent relations with your office, ensuring the Guyanese Diaspora remains integral to life in New York City. We also thank your team, many of whom are Guyanese, for their involvement and support of this anniversary celebration.”
Ambassador Brotherson stated, “Guyana’s economic growth and development are obvious, and the wellbeing of its citizens is improving.” He acknowledged that development brings challenges but emphasized the government’s efforts to strengthen institutions and modernize infrastructure to achieve a more prosperous Guyana for all. The Ambassador informed the Mayor that Guyanese contribute to the development of NYC and serve in the City’s administration with distinction.
Ambassador Brotherson further emphasized Guyana’s commitment to democratic norms, the rule of law, and national sovereignty. He noted, “since gaining independence 59 years ago, Guyana has worked diligently on nation building and preserving its homeland.” The visionary Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali government is steadfast in achieving these objectives despite challenges.
NYC leaders (community and religious) commended Ambassadors Michael Brotherson and Trishala Persaud, Guyana’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and their staff for organizing the event. And they noted that Ambassador Brotherson’s message indirectly criticized President Nicholas Maduro’s position, noting that Maduro’s actions have bolstered Guyanese patriotism.
Maduro cannot annex two-thirds of Guyana or change its territorial boundaries set in 1899. He also cannot hinder Guyana’s growing influence on the world stage. After fifty-nine years of independence, Guyana is nearing a developed country status and will not allow anyone to undermine its sovereignty and progress.
Essequibo has always been Guyana and will remain Guyana. Just imagine! There is no place or structure of significance in the Essequibo that carries a Spanish name. If they had owned Essequibo, Spanish names would have flourished with reckless abandon. Happy 59th Independence Anniversary, Guyana!
Sincerely,
Dr Tara Singh
