A mimicking society

THE CULTURE of a country – that is, the indigenous way of life of its people – gives it its identity and differentiates it from others. This way of life includes its accents; language; cultural values; institutions of governance such as its laws, branches and tiers of government; holidays; ethnicities; and so forth.  No two countries are alike in culture, though there may be some semblance of similarities.
For instance, Guyana follows the Westminster British system of electing its government, our Executive is headed by a president, which is similar to the United States (U.S.), but the developmental thrust grounding our social, economic, cultural and political well-being, is premised on a cooperative republic philosophy.

A republic, in principle, sovereignty is vested in the people who in turn vest their power in their representatives, elected or appointed, to protect and advance their interests.  The cooperative principle not only informs our shared relations in pursuit of economic advancement, but also our common history and day-to-day responsibility for success.
Our uniqueness too is seen in our national holidays-New Year’s Day, Republic, Phagwah, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day, Arrival, Independence, CARICOM, Emancipation, Ed-ul- Adha, Deepavali, Youman-nabi, Christmas, and Boxing Day. These epitomise our religious diversity, historical experiences, major national and regional achievements, though recent times are seeing indications of foisting new ones. Guyanese at home now speak of and observe Halloween and Thanksgiving, as though part of our culture.
Those not au fait with geography, listening to some or noticing advertisements, will find it hard to believe Guyana is located in the tropical zone, where the seasons are wet and dry.  With growing intensity, resident Guyanese and local businesses talk about and promote events for spring break, summer, fall and winter,  which are weather patterns in the climatic zone.

In our entertainment sector, Disc jockeys (DJs), in broadcasting and at events, have adopted the accents and vernacular of other countries, notably Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados.  In formal language usage, including in State and government institutions,from which this newspaper is not absolved, U.S. English is more pronounced in written words than the indigenous British Caribbean English.
Yesterday the U.S. observed Thanksgiving Day. This day has its origin in the Pilgrims who fled religious persecution in Britain and in 1621 celebrated their first harvest with the native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This experience forms the uniqueness of the U.S. culture. Some Guyanese at home, including local businesses, have observed and promoted the day. Our broadcasters were doing likewise, encouraging resident Guyanese to use available facilities to do “Black Friday” shopping.

It is said the best form of flattery is imitation, but when a people seek to imitate the culture of another society it is not flattery but mimicry, which do those who so mimic a disservice. Mimicry contributes to the erosion of identity. In its wake it breathes disrespect for self and by others; for in the absence of pride and self-worth, others will treat you likewise.
This problem, growing in severity, is present on a national scale and requires national reaction to solving it. The Government of Guyana may find utility in treating this as a culture crisis, including the disregard for the country’s correct name. The Ministry of Education, for instance, can partner with stakeholders, government and non-government, in devising solutions.
There can be legislation and/or collaboration with importers of computers to ensure language default to Caribbean English. It is being done in other English-speaking Caribbean countries. The ministry also has to examine the correlative impact in teaching English to a child and developing his/her reasoning and articulation skills, and improving the national pass rate. In broadcasting, the managers responsible for programming can support the maintenance and promotion of our culture by impressing on subordinates the importance of a country’s identity.

Mimicry does not say much about us as a people. Collectively, we must strive to hold in esteem our culture, from which we earn our respect. With commitment and will it is doable.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :
Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All our printed editions are available online
emblem3
Subscribe to the Guyana Chronicle.
Sign up to receive news and updates.
We respect your privacy.