Dear Editor,

While October 24 may be just another day in the life of anyone and another date on the calendar, it also marks the birth (actor Kevin Kline) and death of many (Civil Rights Leader, Rosa Parks), stock markets plummeting (2008), total solar eclipse (1995) and other astrological events, and, it holds a global meaning with an international taste.
One such significance is Polio Day, October 24 being the day set aside to bring an awareness to this devastating and deadly disease and another reason for unity in the world to come together to prevent, fight and treat this infection.

Advocates are advising in order to help prevent this birth defect, not to hesitate but vaccinate, so, stop the strop and get a drop.
World River Dolphin Day/International Day of Freshwater Dolphin is observed and celebrated every year on October 24 globally to raise awareness about dolphin conservation and the need to protect their habitats. Right here in Guyana, in the Rupununi, Pink River dolphins are observed and being researched for their ecological role, habitat requirements, and potential threats to their survival.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942 coined the phrase “United Nations.” The UN was established after WW2 and on June 26, 1945, the charter was ratified and signed in October by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, to formally establish the United Nations, the underlining reason being to avoid the world from experiencing such catastrophic monstrosities as occurred from WW1 and 2 and the cold war. October 24 is identified as United Nations Day to celebrate its success, an awareness of the aims and objectives and a reminder of its theme, “Equality, Freedom and Justice for All.”

The 193 membership of the UN is headed by Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, a former Prime Minister of Portugal. Guyana was elected to serve as a non-permanent member to the UN Security Council starting January 2024, and, will be part of the body responsible to maintain international peace and security for the next two years.
Hindus throughout the world, on the tenth day of Sharad Navratri, celebrate Vijayadashami, popularly known as Dussehra, Dasara or Dashain. This year, October 24, symbolises the day of good over evil, a reminder of Lord Rama in battle, defeating the evil King Rawan, his son Meghnada and brother Kumbhkarana.

The nine nights festival designated to the Deity, Durga Ma in her manifestation of Parvati, Lakshmi and Saraswathi, also demonstrate the destruction of the demon, Mahishasura. This festivity includes the enactment of explosive effigies and accompanied with dance and songs and feasting with families and friends with kheer, jalebi and ladoos.
The members of the Alexander Village Mandir were fortunate and privileged to have the company of His Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali and the Honorable Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, visiting and participating in the celebration of Navratri. The PPP/C government is tirelessly in the forefront, battling the evil in society and providing light over darkness. Divinity dominating deviousness demarcates the determination demanding prayers for peace and unity.

In a world consumed with the Ukraine/Russia drama and the Palestine/Israel saga, apart from sickness, poverty, climate change, autocracy, terrorism, corruption, discrimination, prejudice and other negativities, it leaves a vacuum for peace and security and sounds a timely call to demand the presence, protection and pronouncement of the UN, more profusely and prominently.

People, properties and places are being pulverized by bombarding weapons of war without regard for children, civilians and hospitals. Dictatorship erodes the freedom of expression and the will of people.

The shortages of medicines and medical treatment remain an undisclosed priority. The causes and effects of climate change attributed to global warming is still being underplayed. Equitable distribution of wealth is more of a hindrance than a determinacy. Job security and food shortages remain unresolved for crucial survival.
The underworld activists and activities dominate financial stability. Education, human rights and justice still remain unavailable or denied in many quarters. The earth tremors not only from nature but also from the indignity of humanity.

While many leaders are seriously considering resolutions and solutions to remedy a hurt, burdened and tired situation, the UN is still tasked to continue to fight the battle of oppression and win the war of suppression. Armed with the flag of truce and assisted with the resources of the super powers, the United Nations is guided by the principles of their three pillars: protect, respect and remedy.

These pillars lay the foundation for: democracy to prevail by achieving international peace and security, using diplomacy and dialogue; development to propel economic and social progress; and, foster respect for human rights. It is gratifying to hear and read the UN resident coordinator, the honorable Yesim Oruc, acknowledging that Guyana qualifies and is a supportive member, engaging in all three deportments, thus, contributing towards the UN agenda of duties and activities.

Guyana is reminded of the famous quote, “United we stand, divided we fall.” Dave Martin’s melody of “Not a blade of grass, not one curass,” is the appropriate response to any of Venezuela’s intimidation tactics. Guyanese across the board are rejoicing with the tune, “We are all completely united.” It is refreshing to hear as a relief, that the Government and the Opposition are on the same page finally and can see eye to eye, on a October 24.

Yours respectfully,
Jai Lall.