Energy and excitements were felt in Brooklyn on Sunday, June 14, when Guyanese took over the streets to spread unity, and called on each other to uphold Guyana’s motto of “One People, One Nation One Destiny,” during a parade that began at 11:30 am from the corner of Bedford and Church avenues.
More than 10 thousand nationals created a sea of yellow and green along the thoroughfare, many others lining the parade route to show patriotism despite the visibly absence of the Indo-Guyanese community from Richmond Hill, Queens.
Leading the parade was chairperson of the Guyana Unity March and Victory Rally committee, Sherif Fraser, alongside Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes, and Minister of Governance Raphael Trotman, who travelled from Guyana to lend their support.
Guyanese waved the Golden Arrowhead flag as they moved east along Church to Schenectady avenues to listen to several speakers who applauded the expatriates for the commitment to the Coalition government.
Congresswoman Yvette Clarke fired up the crowd by saying, “it is my honor and privilege to be here to celebrate wonderful occasion with you.”
The politician praised the transfer of leadership that she said was peaceful, and congratulations President David Granger for building a nation where everyone has the right to choose their representative.
Clarke reminded Guyanese they reside in one of the most powerful nations in the world and call on them to use their influence in the United States for the good of their country.
“I share your commitment of democracy here and in Guyana,” said Clarke, before she presented Minister of State Joseph Harmon with a proclamation.
Trotman told the enthusiastic crowd that their leaders at home appreciate the contributions they have made over the decades, and especially during the recent election process.
“We could not have done it without you, said Trotman,” adding, “When Guyana celebrates its 50th Independence next year, the Coalition government would have stepped over that threshold to achieve greatness for Guyana. A Guyana that we could all be proud of, a Guyana that would be free of bigotry and discrimination.”
Harmon said, “Guyanese people asked for a change in Guyana and they got it. As I walked along Church Avenue this afternoon I felt a change.”
The retired Lt. Colonel said he was proud to represent the President of the Republic of Guyana David Granger and Prime Minister David Nagamootoo, the cabinet, government and people of Guyana.
“Let us celebrate our unity and diversity,” added Harmon who called for the next rally to be held in Richmond Hill, Queens, as he sent a strong message to detractors of unity.
“You play a very important role in Guyana,” said Hughes and now we have an awesome opportunity to realize the potential of Guyana — “yes we can.”
“Our journey has just begun and we need your support, your skills and investment,” said Hughes who announced the creation of the new Department of Diaspora.
Sherif Fraser said, “Words cannot express my sincere gratitude and thanks to everyone who played a role in the success of the Guyana Unity March and Rally held yesterday on Church and Bedford avenues to Church and Schenectady avenues. Thank You.”
Assemblywoman Roxanne J Persaud and Sandra Chapman on behalf of Brooklyn Borough Hall Eric Adams also presented citations and proclamations to the government of Guyana.
Guyana Consul General Brentnold Evans, Permanent Representative George Talbot, and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, joined representatives from NYC Comptroller’s Office, Office Mayor Bill deBlasio, Guyanese-born Jurist Ingrid Joseph, and others.
“Love and Unity” by Eddie Neblett was the theme song that cemented and ended a day of national pride, highlighted by artists Lisa Punch, Adrian Dutchen, Suflantis, Jennifer Ferriera, Menes DeGroit Shanto Rhythms, among others.