The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) in saluting Indo-Guyanese on the 165th anniversary of the arrival here of East Indians says it is necessary for every Guyanese to realize and to be reminded constantly that building a multi-ethnic country like Guyana proceeds from the recognition that each group brought something here.
Therefore, the IAC posited, the "secret to nation-building is unity and working together."
"While it is appropriate to celebrate the arrival of Indians," the IAC stated, "we cannot lose sight of the fact that what we have in Guyana today is the cumulative experience and work of all who have come to this country, including the native people or Amerindians that were already here for thousands of years."
Indian Arrival Day marks the commencement of the contribution of Indian immigrants (Bharatiyas) who were largely indentured labourers to the development of Guyana, the IAC noted. "By working hard and applying themselves, very often in difficult circumstances, the Bharatiyas and their descendants, the Indo-Guyanese, contributed immensely to the development of Guyana."
The IAC also emphasised that "all of its members are patriotic Guyanese" and are extremely proud of their Indian ancestry; their rich and ancient culture; progressive values such as family stability, hard work and thrift; and their firm commitment to national unity and the development and prosperity of Guyana.