National Park full as...
Thousands show up for colorful Emancipation Day celebrations

By Jaime Hall

Guyana Chronicle
August 2, 2003

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Thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life yesterday turned out at the National Park, Thomas Land, to join in the celebration of Emancipation Day. The huge gathering truly reflected Guyanese cultural diversity.

President Bharrat Jagdeo and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds were among Government officials who were present.

The African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) was the host of the main event at the park, which was marked by a number of cultural presentations and reflections on the lives of African descendents.

Leader of the People's National Congress/Reform PNC/R Mr. Robert Corbin were among those who spoke.

Corbin in his remarks noted that African slaves after being liberated, pool their financial resources together to buy lands, which became villages.

The freed slaves were able to develop those lands for agriculture and other purposes from which they earned a living.

This was a significant contribution made in the history of Guyana's development, he pointed out.

During the event, ACDA presented Philip Moore, an internationally recognized Guyanese artist, with the African symbol of defense- the sword. This was in recognition of his contribution made to African spirituality.

Moore who gave a brief talk on African Culture noted that young African descendants in Guyana are still seeking their identity, in an influence of western culture, but they are in need of much guidance to truly understand and appreciate African values.

At the National Park, groups such as the Divine Stars, the Mystic Group, and dancers, entertained the audience. There was also drumming of African rhythms among other performances.

But it was also a day of economic activity for many. In other sections of the park there were many stalls where persons sold traditional African foods and a variety of snacks and beverages.

There were stalls where people purchased African traditional attire and accessories.

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