Culture, unity and patriotism take centre stage in Region Five Independence celebrations

Calls to preserve Guyana’s culture and strengthen national unity took centre stage on Sunday as Region Five marked the country’s 60th Independence Anniversary with a colourful Diamond Jubilee celebration featuring cultural performances and patriotic tributes.

The event, hosted by the Region Five Regional Democratic Council, showcased a vibrant display of music, dance and cultural presentations reflecting Guyana’s diverse heritage and spirit of “One Guyana”.

The morning’s programme began with a parade and march-past by the Disciplined Services, followed by performances including patriotic songs, calypso renditions, poetry, African drumming, drama and dance.

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud, addressing the gathering, praised the cultural displays and said they reflected the unity and resilience that shaped Guyana’s journey to Independence.

She said Guyana had grown into a “powerhouse of development and opportunity”, while urging citizens not to allow divisiveness to undermine national progress.

“No matter what happens in our country, we must never ever let divisiveness affect us, whether mentally or as a people,” she said, adding that Guyana stood as a model of diversity with its six peoples and multiple faiths.

Persaud also urged parents to instil national pride, respect and compassion in children, stressing the importance of contributing to national development.

“To build a land, we must build ourselves… our first love must be our country,” she said, describing the Golden Arrowhead as a symbol carrying the dreams and sacrifices of past and present generations.

She concluded by reaffirming Guyana’s national motto, saying the country remains “one people, one nation, one destiny.”