ON the occasion of International Workers’ Day or Labour Day, we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity, the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of Islam, in association with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, seize this opportunity to extend best wishes to the individuals whose hard work and dedication have aided to build this great nation.
Centuries ago, our ancestors toiled in some of the most challenging conditions and through their hard work, perseverance, and resilience, helped our beloved nation to march on the path of development. As such, we should take this time to remind ourselves that our inner and outer lives are dependent on the labors of each other.

Those that are alive and those that have passed on, we must exert ourselves in order to send in the same measure that we have received and continue to receive.
Unfortunately, in current times, the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic has destroyed millions of full-time jobs globally, which has created an unprecedented fear of income uncertainty for most families. The vast number of people who are out of work or whose ability to work is impaired as a result of the consequences of COVID-19 remains disheartening. The pandemic has emphasised, more than ever, the ways where we all share common ground: the need to be healthy, the desire to provide economic stability, and the desire to provide a prosperous future for our children and their children.

In Guyana and around the world, it is our sincere hope that the relevant authorities continue to invest in our people and the neighborhoods from which they come. For, it is truly saddening that while some of us will be celebrating Labour Day in the comfort of our homes, there are those who carry the pressure of sustaining themselves and families due to a lack of income. At this time, we must also pay tribute to our essential workers, from doctors and nurses, security personnel, police and military, among others, who continue to perform their duties amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite our challenges in the shadow of COVID-19, we wish the nation of Guyana a blessed and safe Labour Day. We implore everyone to wear their masks and to adhere to all other COVID-19 guidelines. Additionally, we urge all to make every effort to get vaccinated. Remember, no one is safe until everyone is safe!

Sincerely,

Haji Dr. Roshan Khan