THE 19th Amerindian Heritage Month observances, that opened at the Amerindian Village, at the Sophia Exhibition Complex on September 1, showcased the wonderful colour and diversity of their rich indigenous culture, and over the past four days, more aspects were showcased.

Hundreds of persons were treated to displays of craft and food, and a cultural show that demonstrated the confidence and pride of an ethnic group that continues to make great strides under the PPP/C Government.
This year’s event was considered the largest compared to previous years. The talent show saw exciting cultural pieces in the form of dances, songs and rituals from Amerindian talent groups, from Surama, Karadaranau, Sand Creek, Mainstay, Kwebanna and Barima.
The craft and food exhibitions were well attended and patrons had the opportunity, not only to view handicraft made by descendants of the indigenous people, but also to purchase rare Amerindian collections, cuisine and drinks.
Yvonne Pearson, Liaison to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, said the event was highly successful. In a brief comment, she said that the first week was commendable and that the success will prevail throughout the month as celebrations are continuing across the country.
Many persons travelled to Georgetown to participate from Amerindian communities in Regions 1, 2, 4, 5 and 9, and Pearson said that the ministry is pleased with the participation this year.
“Persons have been coming out every night, this shows that people want to be a part of what is happening and the ministry appreciates that; we are happy that Guyanese can come and share the culture,” Pearson pointed out.
Pearson highlighted that a lot of effort was put into the planning, organising and getting persons out to the event. She reiterated that the ministry is proud of the work it has put in, making the event a success.
A few exhibitors felt that there weren’t enough advertisements done this year, especially for the craft items. Pearson said that that there is always room for improvement and the ministry will be considering suggestions to make the event bigger and better next year.
Meanwhile, exhibitor Marva Thomas of Moruca, Region 1, said that the first three nights were a bit slow, however, the final night was encouraging and she wished that the exhibition would have been extended over the weekend.
Thomas said it was a tremendous assistance to her over the years, not only financially, but having the opportunity to showcase her products.
Designer Natasha David of Georgetown was happy to be a part of the exhibition for the third year. She said that this year was much better than previous years because she was able to market more of her Amerindian clothing.
Margery Rodriquez of Santa Rosa was optimistic that all her items would have been sold out before heading back to her village. Rodriquez said that she has been a part of the exhibition since it was established and she has been able to build her customer base.
“I am so happy that we have this exhibition for the Amerindians and I hope that there will be more exhibitions like this, I am looking forward to this,” Rodriquez said.
Other events for the Month include Heritage Village celebrations at Karasabai, Region 9, today, a night of reflection on the achievements of the first Amerindian Parliamentarian, Stephen Campbell, at the Umana Yana on September 21, and Amerindian heritage sports on September 22 at the GCC Ground, Georgetown. The month of activities will culminate with a pageant on September 28 at the National Cultural Centre.
These activities are being held under the theme “Honouring our culture, advancing our future”.