THE Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MoIPA) has disclosed that it is exploring the possibility of hosting a virtual celebration for Indigenous Heritage Month in September this year.

The ministry’s Principal Regional Development Officer (PRDO) Anil Roberts, said the matter was debated in an initial discussion. “We are looking to have it [live] streamed nationally and especially in the hinterland communities,” he told the DPI.

However, Roberts explained that the ministry is awaiting the ongoing transition of the new administration and a budget to move ahead with plans for the month-long observance.
This move is in keeping with the social-distancing measures that are necessary to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The month of September is recognised nationally as Indigenous Heritage Month, and a series of activities hosted by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs is planned to honour the work, culture and contributions of Guyana’s first peoples.

The very first Indigenous Heritage Month was observed on September 10, 1995, in honour of Stephen Campbell, Guyana’s first Indigenous Member of Parliament.
Last year’s heritage observances were held under the theme, “Maintaining traditional practices while promoting a green economy.”