By Michelle Ann Joseph- Dr. David Hinds is a long-standing activist, cultural advocate, social commentator, politician, and academic whose resilience and dedication to political, social, and racial justice have made him a formidable force in Guyanese and Caribbean affairs. His unwavering commitment to change and national progress has defined his career, making him one of the most influential figures in the struggle for democracy, racial equality, and political transformation in Guyana.
Born in Buxton to a working-class family as the second of nine children, Hinds received his early education at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic School before attending Buxton Government Secondary School and Bladen Hall High School. From a young age, he was deeply engaged in cultural activities, participating in poetry recitals and dramatic performances.
At just 13 years old, he joined the 1st of August Movement, an Afro-centric organization dedicated to preserving African cultural traditions in Buxton. His drama skills earned him an audition and place in one of the earlier Guyanese films, Agro Seize man and for a time, he envisioned a career as a professional actor. However, his political consciousness deepened under the guidance of the African Society for Cultural Relations with Independent Africa (ASCRIA), led by Eusi Kwayana. Through ASCRIA, he was introduced to Nancy Stories, Que Que, and African folklore, alongside political education.
As a teenager in Buxton, he belonged to the Buxton Youth Council, the First of August Movement, the Tutatashinda Cultural Group, the Existence Drama Group, the Flying Stars Sports Club, the Methaholzer Drama Group, and the St Augustine Diocesan Youth Council.
A pivotal moment in Hinds’ early activism came when Walter Rodney visited Buxton upon his return to Guyana in 1974. Inspired by Rodney’s ideas and radical vision, Hinds became associated with the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) at the age of 15, with the approval of his aunt. He was particularly moved by Rodney’s assertion that :“History is not only made by leaders but also by ordinary people.”
Despite concerns within his community about his involvement in the WPA—then a resistance movement opposing the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC)—Hinds remained steadfast in his commitment.
After completing high school in 1976, he developed a keen interest in writing and was employed by the PPP’s Mirror newspaper, as a stringer where he covered sports, culture, and social issues. He was also an active member of Workers Stage, a drama group affiliated with the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), which performed in Indian communities—even as he continued his involvement with the WPA.
By 1979, Hinds had deepened his ties with the WPA, forging stronger relationships with key members and becoming an active participant in the civil rebellion movement. During this period of political upheaval, he and his comrades recited Martin Carter’s poetry and chanted their rallying cry: “People’s Power, No Dictators!”
His activism was rooted in his unwavering belief in African heritage and Black consciousness. He embraced the philosophy that “Black is Beautiful”, even when this stance led to controversy. His praxis also included Marxism, the philosophy of working-class liberation along with a deep commitment to Caribbean nationalism.
Incarceration and Continued Resistance
In 1979, in the midst of civil unrest, Hinds’ aunt and legal guardian passed away. That same year, he migrated to the United States to join his mother. However, his activism did not wane. He returned to Guyana in 1980 but was arrested by the government and charged with possession of arms and ammunition. Sentenced to prison, he spent three years and three months incarcerated, during which he nearly lost his eyesight. Despite his imprisonment, Hinds remained undeterred. Upon his release in May 1983, he resumed his activism, rejoining the WPA at a senior level and continuing the fight for democracy.
Recognising the importance of education, Hinds pursued higher studies, first at the University of Guyana (1985–1987). As he and his older brother prepared to return to the United States, Eusi Kwayana advised them: “Do not return to Guyana without a degree.”
Taking this advice seriously, Hinds earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Theatre from the University of the District of Columbia, an MA in Political Science and International Relations, and a PhD in Political Science with majors in Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Black Politics, from Howard University. After completing his PhD in 1997, Hinds attempted to return to Guyana and sought employment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but his application was rejected. He also applied to CARICOM, but the Guyanese government intervened to block his appointment.
Undeterred, he chose to remain in academia and became a university professor. He lectured at the University of the District of Columbia and Montgomery Community College before going to Claremont Graduate University as a Visiting Assistant Professor. He was later hired in the African and African American Studies department at Arizona State University where he has been for the last 23 years.
He teaches courses such as Pan Africanism, Caribbean Politics and Political; Economy, African American Politics, Race and Racism, Peoples and Cultures of the Caribbean, Africana Studies, African American Studies, Bob Marley: Lyrics of Resistance, Black and Caribbean Music as Political Discourse and Ethnicity and Politics in the African Diaspora.
During his time in the United States, Hinds remained engaged in Guyanese politics, maintaining strong ties with the WPA of which he is now an Executive member, Co-leader, and current Presidential Candidate.
Throughout his career, Hinds has remained deeply invested in Guyanese affairs, particularly in advocating for the rights of Afro-Guyanese and broader national unity. He has promoted power sharing, Caribbean integration, Black nationalism, and working-class advocacy.
Beyond academia, Hinds has been an influential public intellectual and media commentator. He has been a long-standing host for Carib Nation, a prominent Caribbean-American television program, where he has interviewed political figures across the region. He has been a political commentator for the last 28 years on the monthly radio program, The Caribbean Political Hour with Dr. David Hinds on WEEA radio station at Morgan State University. Dr Hinds is also a regular contributor to radio and television programs in Arizona, Washington DC, Antigua and the wider Caribbean
He has also contributed to the Guyana Chronicle and other local newspapers as a columnist. His extensive body of written work includes books The History of Power Sharing in Guyana; More than Sea Water and Sand: An Introduction to the Caribbean; Bob Marley Lyrics of Resistance and Race and Political Discourse in Guyana. He has also published several academic articles, book chapters, and scholarly essays and delivered public lectures on Guyanese and Caribbean politics and popular culture, Pan-African politics, and African American politics.
In addition to his membership of the WPA, Hinds belongs to the Cuffy 250 Committee, Buxton First of August Movement, and the Society for African Guyanese Empowerment—all Afro-centric organizations
Dr. David Hinds is more than just a scholar; he is a working-class advocate, public intellectual, Pan-Africanist, and cultural activist. His lifelong commitment to justice, racial equality, and democratic governance has made him an indelible figure in Guyanese and Caribbean history.
Despite the personal and political challenges, he has faced—including incarceration, state repression, and professional exclusion—his unwavering dedication to the cause of Black empowerment and national unity remains steadfast.
Today, he continues to serve the people of Guyana, using his popular Politics 101 social media platform to educate, inspire, and mobilize. His gratitude to those who have supported him over the years reflects his deep sense of humility and purpose.
Dr. Hinds is a living testament to resilience, courage, and intellectual brilliance. We honor him for his bravery, tenacity, strength, and unwavering advocacy. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Guyana and the broader Caribbean.
A living inspiration!
