THE National Park on Sunday last, was the scene of a panorama of  rich, bright colours that reflected the awesome, mosaic majesty of  the African traditional wear, as thousands of Afro- Guyanese bedecked in this finery thronged this venue for Emancipation Day celebrations. And what a gathering it was, as participants were treated to a varied display of African cultural traditions, supplemented by interventions from Brazilian, Surinamese, and Venezuelan cultural performers.   
But the appreciable aspect of this important historical observance had to be the presence of His Excellency President Bharrat Jagdeo, who graced the occasion, clad in a very beautiful dashiki. His presence certainly added to an enjoyable day.
What this visit has demonstrated, once again, is a Head  of State who leads by example, signalling that he supports and has  respect for individual cultures, as well as facilitating state assistance in making such observances a reality. This point is re-emphasised is due to the fact that there were grumblings from certain quarters about cultural partisanship on the part of the PPP/C government. I hope that these same critics would have taken note of the donation made to ACDA for disbursements to over 40 African cultural groups.
Even Minister Frank Anthony seemed to have enjoyed himself at the traditional Hopetown Soiree, as evidenced from a portrayal in the Stabroek News.
These examples from the executive can only foster a sense of togetherness that will lend toward the much sought after goal of national harmony.