ON December 18, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 64/169 by consensus, thereby proclaiming the year beginning on  January 1, 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent, with a view to strengthening national actions and regional and international cooperation for the benefit of people of African descent in relation to their full enjoyment of economic, cultural, social, civil and political rights, their participation and integration in all political, economic, social and cultural aspects of society, and the promotion of a greater knowledge of and respect for their diverse heritage and culture. The Assembly also encouraged Member States, the specialized agencies of the United Nations system, within their respective mandates and existing resources, and civil society to make preparations for and identify possible initiatives that can contribute to the success of the Year.
The Government of Guyana recognises and values highly the unique contribution that Guyanese of African descent have made to our country’s history and culture and to Guyana’s rich multi-ethnic heritage.
“We view the International Year as providing a distinct opportunity to further promote greater awareness and understanding by all Guyanese of this important legacy as well as to contribute further to the fashioning of a harmonious society based on mutual respect and appreciation,” a Foreign Affairs Ministry release said.
In keeping with this United Nations resolution the Government, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, will announce a national programme of events and activities aimed at recognising and paying fitting tribute to the rich legacy of people of African descent globally and their special contribution to Guyana’s formation and development as a nation. The Government of Guyana looks forward to the active collaboration and participation of all Guyanese in making the International Year for People of African Descent a success.