On World’s Indigenous Peoples Day, IFAAD Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting their struggle for rights, dignity and recognition

The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) in a statement says it proudly joins the world in celebrating International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. The United Nations (UN) commemorates International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on 9^th August every year. The day was chosen in recognition of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations held in Geneva in 1982.

Acknowledging the importance of this day the anti-discrimination body says it stands as a powerful tribute to the vibrant cultures, languages, and traditions that Indigenous communities’ contribution to our shared heritage.

While there remains much work to be done to ensure the dignity and rights of this group with are constitutionally enshrined are ensured, Guyana acknowledges its name “land of many waters” from the Indigenous community.

The Cacique Crown that sits atop the country’s Coat of Arms, the name of the national flag “The Golden Arrowhead,” Unma Yana “meeting place” building in Georgetown; the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH), the nation’s second highest award which is given to citizens who have provided exceptional service to the country, are among such acknowledgment of the contributions of  Guyana’s Indigenous people.

“International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is a poignant reminder of the need to champion the rights of Indigenous peoples, we stand firmly against the use or abuse of Indigenous voices for political gain and emphasize the importance of genuine engagement and support,” says IFAAD’s Vice Chairman, Ubraj Narine.

As the world honours this significant occasion, the anti-discrimination body reaffirms its commitment to supporting Indigenous peoples in their ongoing struggle for rights, dignity, and recognition.

IFAAD pays homage in acknowledgment that “the diverse and rich traditions of Indigenous communities are integral to our collective cultural fabric, and it is crucial that their voices are heard and respected.”

Together, the institute says, Guyanese can work towards a future where Indigenous cultures are preserved and respected, and where their rights are upheld with integrity and justice.

IFAAD is also encouraging all individuals and organisations to join in this celebration by acknowledging the invaluable contributions of Indigenous communities and advocating for their rightful place in society.

According to the UN “Indigenous Peoples are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of relating to people and the environment. They have retained social, cultural, economic and political characteristics that are distinct from those of the dominant societies in which they live.

“Despite their cultural differences, Indigenous Peoples from around the world share common problems related to the protection of their rights as distinct peoples.”

It is estimated 476 million Indigenous Peoples are living in the world living across 90 countries.  This number represents less than 6 per cent of the world’s population, but account for at least 15 per cent of the poorest.

“Indigenous Peoples have sought recognition of their identities, their way of life and their right to traditional lands, territories and natural resources for years. Yet, throughout history, their rights have been violated. Indigenous Peoples today, are arguably among the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups of people in the world. The international community now recognizes that special measures are required to protect their rights and maintain their distinct cultures and way of life.”

The UN has affirmed that we need indigenous communities for a better world and calls on state and non-state actors to treat the community with dignity and respect and ensure the social, cultural, political and economic rights guarantee to all are also theirs.  In Guyana the indigenous peoples continue to fight for the right to self-determination.