STAFF members of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development yesterday decked themselves in vibrantly coloured traditional  African clothing and modelled for their colleagues at a simple ceremony at the ministry’s Fort Street, Kingston boardroom in celebration of Emancipation Day today.Planned by the ministry’s National Events Committee, the event was attended by Minister Ganga Persaud, Permanent Secretary Collin Croal, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Abena Moore, staff and work study students on attachment there.
Staff members made presentations on the significance of Emancipation as well as the contributions of Africans to Guyana, in celebration of the holiday today.
 The staff members who modelled also did a cultural dance to fast-paced, rhythmic African drumming.
In delivering the feature address, Minister Persaud extended Emancipation greetings to everyone and commended the committee for putting together the event.
He made the point that Guyana’s diversity contributes to its strength, and that beauty can be seen in all descriptions and through differences.
He noted that while respect is being paid to African ancestry, everyone should remember that they are Guyanese.
He pointed out that freedom can be seen at this point in history because of the many sacrifices that were made by ancestors, especially those of African descent.
The minister said he was happy to see both senior and junior level staff members involved in yesterday’s event,  which would have served to put everyone in the mood for today’s celebration.
He said that the focus must not only be on the fun aspect of the celebration, but on its importance and significance.
Concluding, he said, “One remembers the good pot of cook-up rice for its great taste, not for its ingredients.”
With this, he urged everyone to put their best foot forward and accept who they are and be proud to be African Guyanese who have made and will continue to make a difference in Guyana.