GUYANESE society, in this week of Diwali 2014, must justifiably wish that their nation, our country, experiences some grand illumination of the spirit and the soul of the nation.

We Guyanese must also surely hope for the light of peace, compromise and collective progress to shine away the darkness of political rancor, parliamentary stalemates and wrangling, and the stultifying forces against national development.
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) appreciates the people’s need for evil schemes to be unmasked and banished from our Green Land. GAWU wishes that the Diwali diyas symbolise the light of understanding and collective responsibility as it joins with Guyana’s Hindu Community in celebrating a wonderful Festival that is now a truly national event: Diwali 2014.
The festival originated in rural India as a celebration of a favourable harvest produced by the working-class. It is also rooted in various mythological events which eventually were revealed to be based on actual historical facts. Always the lights are used to symbolise wisdom and knowledge, illumination over the darkness of ignorances and evil.
In Guyana, it is a heart-warming indication of happy harmony as Guyanese of various religions and races join in the celebration through viewing the motorcades and participating in melas and other cultural observances. GAWU endorses this national participation by all communities, government and the private sector.
Maha Lakshmi’s light shines on the basis of prosperity, vitality and wealth. May that dimension of Guyanese existence be pursued and realised by all – inspired by another Festival of Lights – Diwali 2014.

–GAWU