THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is urging the public to refrain from defacing and vandalising the monuments and historic sites around the city.
The most recent monument defaced is the 1823 Monument located on the sea wall. The 1823 Monument is dedicated to the country’s historical past, and nationally recognises our ancestors who endured and overcame great hardships to secure freedom for themselves and descendants.
“In unveiling this monument, we are formalising the honour that we have kept in our hearts; and as a united people, acknowledging an epic contribution of our people’s quest for justice, dignify and liberty. May this monument inspire all Guyanese to join hands in partnership for peace, progress and prosperity,” were the words of His Excellency President Donald Ramotar at the launch of the 1823 Monument in August 2013.
The Demerara rebellion of 1823 was an uprising involving more than 10,000 slaves. It took place in the former Crown colony of Demerara-Essequibo. The rebellion took place on 18 August, lasted for two days, and was led by slaves with the highest status partly in response to the poor treatment they were subjected to.
There was also the mistaken belief that the emancipation offered to slaves by the British Parliament was being withheld by the colonial rulers. Instigated chiefly by Jack Gladstone, a slave at “Success” plantation, the rebellion also involved his father, Quamina, and other senior members of their church group.
The Ministry issued a statement expressing disappointment at the defacing of yet another monument.
“We are disheartened by such distasteful acts, especially at such a time when Emancipation celebrations are fast approcahing. These sites are of great historic value, and should be held in high regard by all who visit them”, the Ministry release said.
(By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)