I want to thank Ivan Roach for his letter in the Chronicle of 24.03.08 in which he wrote about his wonderful experience in observing the wonderful festival of Phagwah. I am happy to tell a similar story. Some years back, for legal reasons, I had to be in Georgetown at Diwali for the very first time, instead of on the Essequibo Coast, my place of birth. Myself and relatives went to see the motorcade parade and never before have I seen such a turn out of Afro-Guyanese, both grown ups and children at this Hindu occasion enjoying the celebrations.

It did cross my mind to think if these two races can celebrate and enjoy life together on this occasion, why can’t they live in harmony with each other all the time? Yes, as you said, the answer is the political leaders who put things in the people’s minds which turn them against one another.

Not the Afro-Guyanese leaders alone, but also there are some Indo-Guyanese leaders who do not work towards uniting the people.

However, despite its problems, presently, Guyana is blessed with a good leader in Bharrat Jagdeo and only those who are filled with hate will never recognise this fact. This is the downfall and curse of Guyana and that is why many of us living overseas will feel that Guyana will never change. Thank you Ivan Roach for sharing your experience.
INDO-GUYANESE UK