Dear Editor,
As a proud Guyanese, I write this letter with a heavy heart following the 60th Independence Flag Raising Ceremony held at Fort Island in the Essequibo River. While I appreciate the government’s decision to move the independence celebrations beyond Georgetown and include other parts of our country, the way this year’s event unfolded left many citizens hurt, frustrated, and feeling disrespected.
Fort Island is not just another venue. It is a place deeply rooted in our history. Long before modern Guyana was formed, Fort Island stood as the administrative centre of the Dutch colony of Essequibo. The land carries the painful memories of colonialism, slavery, suffering, and the sacrifices made by our ancestors. It is a place that should be approached with dignity, preparation, and respect, especially for an occasion as important as celebrating our nation’s independence.
Instead, what should have been a proud and historic celebration became overshadowed by confusion and embarrassment. The moment when the Golden Arrowhead reportedly refused to raise during the ceremony struck many people emotionally. Some may dismiss it as a technical issue, but others believe moments like these cause us as a people to stop and reflect. Sometimes certain things happen for a reason, and whether symbolic or not, it left many Guyanese questioning what message was being sent on such an important night.
What made the situation even worse was hearing that many citizens were left stranded at the Parika Stelling and not able to cross over to Fort Island to attend the event. These were ordinary Guyanese who travelled to celebrate their country with pride. No citizen should have to experience that after attending a national celebration. It was unfair, disorganized, and deeply disappointing.
Independence is supposed to be about unity, pride, and appreciation for the sacrifices that built this nation. Our people deserve celebrations that make them feel valued, respected, and included, not frustrated and abandoned.
I believe the Government of Guyana owes the people an apology and, more importantly, must ensure that future national events are planned with greater care and consideration for the citizens they are meant to serve. Guyanese deserve better than this.
Yours Truly
Lorenzo Joseph
United Workers Party Activist
Trade Union Advocate
