Guyana's 58th Independence Anniversary Flag Raising Ceremony

26 Jul

On Friday, June 14, East Orange City Hall Plaza was adorned with the vibrant colors of the Golden Arrowhead flag of Guyana. Lady Ira Lewis, the president and founder of the Guyana American Heritage Foundation (GAHF), organized this festive occasion to commemorate Guyana's 58th Independence Anniversary. The event honored several nationals for their outstanding contributions to the community.

Honoring Achievements and Contributions

New Jersey's youngest State Senator, Britnee Timberlake, representing the 34th Legislative District, played a vital role in the ceremony. She presented First Deputy Commissioner Tania I. Kinsella with a State of NJ Resolution. Kinsella was also honored with the Danny Glover Power of Dream Award and the GAHF Trailblazer Award.

Trail Blazer Awards were also given to Bibi Alli (Power of the Soil), Doris Rodney (Hills Restaurant), Monica Sanchez (Miss Caricom), and Ya-G International Caterers. The Community Service Award was presented to Pandit Vishadarr and MGM Services Group's Levi Langeller.

Special Senate Resolutions recognized the efforts of Lady Ira Lewis, Tangerine Clarke from Caribbean Life, Molly Etwaroo from New York City Hall, and other GAHF members.

Remarks from Mayor Ted R. Green

Ted R. Green, the Mayor of East Orange and a long-time supporter of the Guyanese diaspora, welcomed attendees to City Hall Plaza and expressed his gratitude for the community's contributions to the city.

"Guyanese are a part of the melting pot here. We thank them for being a part of the government, the police and fire departments, the board of education, and hospitals. All of you are a part of this city, and as the mayor, I am very grateful for that," he said.

Senator Timberlake's Tribute to the Guyanese Community

Senator Timberlake, who has served five years in the General Assembly, highlighted the significant Guyanese population in East Orange. "East Orange has one of the highest populations of people from the beautiful land of Guyana, and we are so grateful and so proud of them," she said.

First Deputy Commissioner Kinsella's Reflections

First Deputy Commissioner Tania I. Kinsella spoke passionately about her upbringing by a strong Guyanese mother and the impact it had on her career. In her Instagram post, she noted,

"On Flag Day in New Jersey, we raise the Guyana flag as a symbol of unity and pride for Guyana’s 58th Independence Flag Ceremony."

Kinsella expressed gratitude for receiving the Resolution Award from the State of New Jersey, highlighting the importance of culture, diversity, and community improvement.

Special Guests and Messages

Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore invited Mayor Ted Green to become an honorary Georgetown citizen and visit Guyana. "When he visits the city of Georgetown, he will receive the key to the city," Mentore said.

Dr. Terrence Blackman, dean of The School of Science and Health Technology at Medgar Evers College, delivered a keynote message urging leaders to focus on unity and inclusivity. "We must challenge our leaders to move beyond narrow lenses. It is time to see a larger Guyanese tribe," he emphasized.

Looking to the Future

Guyana is celebrating its 58th Anniversary of Independence with reflections on progress and commitments to further development. President Irfaan Ali highlighted improvements in life expectancy, reduced child and maternal mortality rates, and the country's growing regional and international presence.

Addressing a flag-raising ceremony, President Ali emphasized the ongoing efforts to build a resilient, strong, and sustainable Guyana.

Celebrating Independence

The Independence Anniversary celebration at East Orange City Hall was a testament to the Guyanese community's unity, pride, and contributions. With heartfelt speeches, special awards, and lively entertainment, the event honored the past while looking forward to a bright and prosperous future for Guyana.

CITED: www.caribbeanlife.com, caribbean.loopnews.com, www.hgptv.com