MINISTER of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, yesterday launched Amerindian Heritage Month 2012 with a press conference at the Hinterland Students’ Dormitory, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. This year, the month will be observed under the theme: Embracing Our Identity, Celebrating Our Culture.
“This year, I believe that, as we prepare for heritage celebrations, it is only fitting for us to officially introduce to the nation the activities that will take centre stage in a couple of days”, the minister said.
On August 31 at 17:00hrs, there will be an interfaith service highlighting the Halleluiah religion, the initial religion that was practised by early Amerindian families, particularly of Regions 7 and 8. Minister Sukhai said that other religious denominations will also be a part of this service, including the Rastafarians.
According to her, a grand launch of Amerindian Heritage Month will be held on September 1, which will be graced by numerous dignitaries, including President Donald Ramotar. This launch will include cultural performances including, dance, song and poetry. During the course of the month, numerous activities will be held throughout the country. The minister noted that this year they have extended the activities venues.
The craft exhibition will be held at the Umana Yana, Kingston, from  September 1-5, and will feature the display and sale of bamboo, tibisiri and balata products, as well as indigenous jewellery, such as beads and necklaces. Minister Sukhai said that hosting this event at the Umana Yana brings it closer to a wider populated area. She said that one of their main focuses is on inviting school children to the exhibition.
There will also be a food exhibition at the Amerindian Village, National Exhibition Complex, Sophia, which will ensure that Guyanese get to taste a wide variety of dishes prepared and used by the Amerindians. This exhibition will be held in the compound of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and those persons who usually buy food, lunch and snacks during the week can order their meals.
There will also be a cultural extravaganza from September 1- 15 at the Amerindian Village. Heritage village celebrations will be held at Maicobi, Region 8 (Potaro/ Siparuni) on September 8. Heritage Day will be celebrated on September 10 at the Umana Yana, and will highlight Steven Campbell, the first Amerindian to be a member of parliament. Sporting activities will be held September 15-16, and will include 246 athletes who will play games including cricket and volleyball.
According to Minister Sukhai, a heritage walk will be held on September 23, and will promote healthy lifestyles. This year, instead of having an art and essay competition, there will be a mural painted at the Kitty seawall on September 22 and 23. There will be a Dinner and Appreciation at the Regency Suites, Georgetown on September 28 at 19:00 hrs.
Minister Sukhai said that the plans for a number of regional activities will be unveiled a bit later, as they are awaiting submissions. She extended an invitation to all Guyanese to attend the launch, as well as all the other activities planned for the entire month.