Black Lives Matter movement expected racist, angry reactions over mural
…vows to continue advocacy for a more equal, just society

By Naomi Parris
THE racist rants and angry reactions by some over a group’s decision to paint a ‘Black Lives Matter’ Mural at the Square of the Revolution might just have ignited the spirit of the organisers to continue their fight for a more just and equal society.

In ushering this year’s Emancipation Celebrations, Black Lives Matter-Guyana (BLM-GY) joined the rest of the world in the fight for equality and justice for slain black men and women who lost their lives as a result of racism in the United States of America (USA) and other parts of the world. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Eden Corbin, a coordinator of the group and project, related that the non-governmental organisation was birthed when the world saw the realities of what Afro-ethnic community faced on a daily.

“The black lives we would have recognised that the whole world was now mobilising and standing in solidarity with behind what was happening in America with the George Floyd thing and I think that we would have woke up a lot of persons because the issues of Black Lives Matter, black discrimination and the ill treatment in society is not new to us, we are all aware but I think now because of social media we would have been able to psychically view how serious this thing is and the death of George Floyd would have set a chain reaction in our society and our way of thinking,” Corbin explained.
As result of that, he added that himself and a group of youths decided that it was time Guyana join the movement. The organisation had originally planned to host a march, however due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the mandatory health guidelines they were unable to do so.

Nevertheless, he stated that the organisation went through the right and legal channels and was able to erect the mural in front of the Square of the Revolution, where the 1763 Monument commonly known as Cuffy stands. “We went through the various local government institutions and they saw that our idea and our motivation were correct, and they empowered us by permitting us to make a statement,” he said. Additionally, Corbin noted that the mural is also the BLM organisation’s introduction into the world.

Corbin in addressing criticism from naysayers, stated that while every man is entitled to their opinion, BLM Guyana will not allow those who may not be for the movement to silence their voices,” We will not let people’s opinions [hinder] us in what we are willing to do which is to highlight the struggle of the black community we realise all factions of Guyanese have been affected and we have taken it upon ourselves to represent our black community, we do not discriminate any other community nor do we encourage racial division…we did what we had to do.”

Additionally, in addressing the mural being used as a political weapon, the 22-year-old, said, “We are not politically-affiliated, we cannot stop the politicians from politicising this but what we can do is make sure our message is clear and if that means we have to shout on top of our voice we will shout.” He added that it is critical for persons to speak of their injustices in this case, black people are being dehumanised and are suffering grave injustices and the relevant authorities have not done anything to address same, so black people are speaking out for their human rights.
“Our livelihoods are at risk and it is continuously at that, we are in a system that does not cater for or provide any security or safety net for us, we now will not sit down and allow people to piggy bank on our statement,” he stated.

‘VANDALISM IS A MUST’
Unfortunately, Corbin noted that vandalism is expected, however he stated if the movement did not spark a conversation whether good or bad then the entire initiative behind having their voices heard would have gone down as futile. “The vandalism of this mural is something that we expect, it is something that we unfortunately anticipate but all that will do is vindicate our efforts because if it this does enrage or upset something then we have failed in our attempts,” he stated.
Additionally, he stated that anyone who tries to deface the mural are doing such at their own risk since the act if defacing public infrastructure is a crime as such the relevant authorities can and will deal with delinquents in the right accordance.

IT IS A MOVEMENT!!
Meanwhile, in Bartica, Region Seven, another BLM mural was erected as Barticians prepared to welcome Emancipation, however, like the first mural, the reactions were not as positive as expected.
According the Mayor of the Town, Gifford Marshal, to his surprise the abuse, threats and insults that were levelled against the organisers were unbelievable, referencing it to the days of slavery.

“Africans have always had to explain and justify their actions, needs and behaviour. Slavery was once legal and it took a rebellion (blood shed) for fellow humans to understand it was evil,” Marshall said.
In expressing his is disappoint he added that, “The reality is, any movement, image or writing in favor of Africans locally or internationally will be met with the most venomous attacks and outrage because of various belief systems.”
Additionally he stated as the Mayor of Bartica, he is proud of his town and country at large for its multiethnic society and has always promoted the ideals for religious, gender and ethnic tolerance.

In addition, he said, “I have always spoke glowingly of the contributions of our various ethnic groups, especially our Indian and Amerindian brothers and sisters, in the months of May and September, respectively.”
As such during this year’s celebration he will do no different and stand in support with his African brothers and sisters in celebration as well as join the international fight for equality and bring an end to racism.