THE growing Guyanese population who migrated and are coexisting peacefully on Nevis, have continued to cling to their cultural roots and shared experiences. This was evident last week Saturday when both the young and aged members of the community put on a spectacular cultural parade in commemoration of their Republic day.Saturday February 22nd 2014 was the Republic Day of Guyana. Mashramani means, ‘the celebration of a job well done’ in Amerindian language. Republic Day commemorates Guyana’s birth as a republic. Guyanese observe this with carnival-like celebration, including colourful parades, floats, street dancing with lively costumes, masquerade parties, and games.

Members of the Nevis Guyanese community gave persons passing through the streets of Charlestown a glimpse of their culture. The colourful parade, which commenced shortly after 3pm at the Cultural Centre, culminated at the Elquemedo T. Willett Park, where a host of Nevisians, residents and fellow Guyanese counterparts were eagerly awaiting their arrival. ET Willett Park was transformed to a carnival-like atmosphere.
Persons were seen selling and sampling the Guyanese local cuisine, while some enjoyed some of the folklore on display, and others hung around to socialise.
Speaking with SKN Leewards Times shortly after the parade was event organiser, Ms. Michelle Carter-Vaughn. She disclosed the reason behind the celebration. “We wanted the people of Nevis to have a feel of our culture. Also, it makes us feel at home away from home. We are here in Nevis for work purpose, to have fun and be a part of the Nevis culture and in the same vein; we will like Nevisians to see what our culture is all about,” she said.
She informed that this year, Guyana celebrated its 44th Republic day under the theme, “Cultural Folklore Celebrating 44”.
According to Ms. Carter-Vaughn, “Because culture was embedded in the theme, we decided to showcase the different aspects of our culture through the parade. The first group depicted the six different races in Guyana; the second group showcased our vast agriculture sector; the third group showcased our abundant natural resources like bauxite, gold and copper; the fourth group incorporated Digicel mobile service provider, because Digicel is part of Guyana, and they also gave us their full support at this event. A group also displayed important landmarks in Guyana like kaieteur falls.”
Ms. CarterVaughn commented on the outpour of love from the Nevisian and Kittitian populace. “From the turnout of locals, we feel very much at home and accepted. The Ministers accepted it and also gave us the go-ahead to have our celebration. We had our fellow Guyanese living in St. Kitts join us, along with some Kittitians,” she stated.
Ms. Carter-Vaughn disclosed that this is the second time the Guyanese community will be having their republic celebration in Nevis; last year, a similar event was held. “This is the first time we will be incorporating a parade float with cultural presentation. Last year we did a few games, and some friendly competitions. I was quite surprised and overjoyed with the turn-out and support this year. Next year will be bigger and better,” she promised.
Also present at the event were Ministers of the Nevis Island Administration, and members of the Nevis Reformation Party in opposition. (Reprinted and adapted from the Nation’s Voice)