– senior Region Two official says at wreath-laying ceremony for slain Devonshire Castle sugar workers

REGION Two Regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Oodit has emphasised that the struggles of the sugar workers who were killed during the Devonshire Castle strike on September 29, 1872, should never be forgotten.

He made this remark while delivering an address at a remembrance and wreath-laying ceremony held on Sunday morning at Cabbage Dam in Region Two. The programme included religious songs, poems, and tributes.

Oodit highlighted that the sacrifices of the workers should serve as a beacon for a society committed to life, social justice, and freedom from oppression.

He reflected on the five sugar workers who lost their lives while standing up for the working class in Guyana, fighting against harsh and inhumane labour conditions.

He expressed his satisfaction at seeing schoolchildren participating in the event, as this allowed them to connect with the rich legacy left by their ancestors.

Meanwhile, retired headmaster and lecturer, Sir Parmeshwar Lall, identified the sugar workers as Kaulica, Baldero, Ackloo, Maxidally, and Beccaroo, who were killed by colonial police on September 29, 1872.

He informed the audience that this strike was the first major protest in which Indian immigrant labourers lost their lives, underscoring the severe injustices they faced from their exploiters.

He explained that the workers were driven to the point where they felt compelled to stand against their oppressors and demand justice—a significant historical event that should not be forgotten.

In her closing remarks, Regional Executive Officer Susannah Saywack described September 29 as a historic day for all Guyanese.
She emphasised that the sacrifices of the sugar workers fuelled the ongoing struggle for social and economic justice, leading to greater development for Guyana’s working class.

The fallen workers were hailed as heroes for their invaluable contributions to the betterment of Guyana and its labour force.

Wreaths were laid at the base of the monument built in their honour by representatives from the Region Two administration, religious groups and by students from the 8th of May Secondary, among others.