YOU probably already have an idea as to why I’m writing on this topic now, based on the title of it. First, in September, Guyana celebrates Indigenous Heritage Month. This year’s theme is, “Maintaining traditional practices while promoting a green economy.” Our country is made up of 77 per cent of rainforests, most of which belongs to the Amazon.

In our forests, there are over 1,200 animal species and over 6,400 plant species. On the flip side, there are over 80,000 Indigenous peoples who call Guyana’s rainforests their home. Given that information, we can now realise why this year’s theme is so important. Efforts are made nationally to ensure we preserve the culture of our Indigenous peoples. However, we are also trying to achieve a “green” economy or, in other words, trying to reduce any environmental risks. But can we eat and bake our cakes at the same time? Perhaps, it is possible if we’re willing to “put in the work.” Increasing awareness among our Indigenous brothers and sisters about a “green” economy, renewable energy resources; recycling and reusing; the importance of our rainforests while providing the necessary resources to aid in these discussions and further action, is the first step towards achieving this.

Now, in my research, I understood that the word ‘heritage’ is defined as something that was handed down from the past as a tradition. High school Social Studies and Caribbean History classes must have enlightened you on some of which was passed down to our Indigenous peoples today; the languages, rituals, folklore and tales, pepperpot and not forgetting piwari—just to name a few. Yes, these were all passed down but shouldn’t we be thinking a bit harder about ‘heritage’? First, the Indigenous peoples should be given more recognition for our country’s very existence and development. ‘Kaieteur Falls.’‘Mashramani’, ‘Guiana’ and even the ‘Pepperpot Magazine’—are we aware of their origins? How can we forget their amazing ability to make craft out of natural materials; hammocks, chairs, beautiful jewellery and pottery and even weapons? The best gifts (another word I like to use for tradition)— that was passed down to the Indigenous peoples are those we cannot see, rather a more innate and ‘inside’ gift. It’s the strong instinct to survive, the will to always preserve and acknowledge where you came from, the innate virtue of perseverance—to never give up.

People often assume my racial identification and would often think I am of Indigenous descent, because of my physical appearance. Not that I was ever offended by that; however, I was always quite critical on the tone they used to make their assumptions. As if calling me an “Amerindian” is supposed to make me feel offended, especially when people were trying to make fun of my appearances. My experience with this made me ponder a bit on how Guyanese truly perceive the culture and heritage of the first peoples of this land. For instance, I’m sure you’re all aware of that ‘B’ word persons often use when we’re describing or making reference to Indigenous people. If we’re speaking about racial slurs and slangs, we seldom or never acknowledge it as one. To an extent, even the word “Amerindian” might come off as offensive to some Indigenous folk of our country.

Nonetheless, I have learned to own up to any ethnic mistakes people make about me. As far as I know, the Indigenous peoples of our country have done a tremendous job at preserving their heritage. While most of our sister Caribbean countries experienced total extinction of their Indigenous peoples, Guyana has four thriving tribes; the Warraus, Arawaks, Wapisianas and the Caribs. These four tribes include several sub-tribes; Arecunas, Akawaios, Patamonas, the Macusis and the Wai-Wais. All of these have different languages and cultural practices and all of which we should continue to preserve and be proud of. Happy Indigenous Heritage Month to all Guyanese, may we keep in mind the purpose of this year’s theme and the importance of preserving both Indigenous Heritage and our forests.

Finally, don’t forget to thank your Indigenous friends—for what exactly? For Pepperpot, of course!