GUYANA is rich with its own cultural identity and there is no need to promote vulgarity in the guise of culture, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Priya Manickchand said yesterday.
Adults should be leading by example by practising what is preached, she told hundreds at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, West Coast Demerara, for the 169th anniversary observance of the arrival of East Indians in Guyana.
“We live in an exciting and promising time where all cultures are given an opportunity and indeed are encouraged to flourish, providing those of us who live here with the enviable prospect of being part of a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic society in which we can all participate equally in the nation’s development and growth,” Ms. Manickchand said.
The Government Information Agency (GINA) said she urged that vulgar and suggestive dancing at cultural presentations among children taking part in these events must not be tolerated.
She said it is worrisome to see children in shows that are erroneously dubbed ‘cultural’ in vulgar and suggestive performances.
“We must not mislead them as to the true nature of culture by involving, teaching and cheering them on in activities that are vulgar and debasing and have nothing to do with true cultural expression.”
GINA said the minister urged the gathering at the event hosted by the Indian Religious Cultural and Social Organisation to encourage their children to be confident and progressive in order that they become productive and well-rounded individuals.
She also noted, it said, that as a society, people cannot speak of arresting the violence and abuse meted out to women and girls and then in the same breath encourage behaviour that can lead to violence.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds was also at the event that highlighted cultural performances in the form of dances, songs and skits. Indian cuisine was also on sale.
May 5, 1838 is observed as the date of arrival of East Indians to Guyana, on two ships the Hesperus and the Whitby.
During the period 1838 and 1917 more than 200,000 East Indians arrived on these shores to work on the sugar cane plantations.
(Use photo of Col ramsarup)