Thousands celebrate Emancipation Day at the National Park
THOUSANDS of Guyanese from all walks of life came out in their numbers to commemorate the 173rd anniversary of Emancipation at the National Park. This day comes also on the heels of the United Nations declaration of 2011 being the International Year of People of African Descent.

Head of State, President Bharrat Jagdeo, Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, and Culture Minister Dr. Frank Anthony, among other officials from the various political backgrounds all joined in the festivities.

The park came alive with performances by local and international groups including, cultural dances from ACDA, and the Nazarene Cultural Centre from Trinidad, the Talking Drums group from Suriname, Beyond Sounds from Toronto, Canada, and Folk Dance Ballet from Mexico.

The hosts of the event, the African Cultural and Development Association, celebrated under the theme “Recognition, Justice, Development”.

The day’s celebration began with the traditional Sunrise Morning Programme by Faithists groups across Guyana.

Outside the National Park, ACDA hosted several events, including the Freedom Race.