IFAAD Marks 188 Years of Indian Arrival, Salutes All Peoples’ Contributions

On this 188th Anniversary of Indian Arrival, the Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) extends warm greetings to the people of Guyana as we commemorate the arrival of Indian indentured labourers on May 5, 1838. This historic milestone honours the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of those men and women who endured hardship and injustice, yet laid enduring foundations for our nation’s social, cultural, and economic development.

We also recognise that Guyana’s story is the collective story of all its peoples—Indigenous peoples, Africans, Portuguese, Chinese, Europeans, and others—whose labour, sacrifice, and perseverance have shaped the nation we call home. Indian Arrival Day is therefore both a celebration of one people’s journey and a reminder of the shared struggles and contributions that built our diverse society.

Indian Guyanese have contributed immeasurably to agriculture, commerce, education, public service, faith, and the arts, enriching Guyana’s multicultural identity. Their journey stands as a testament to perseverance in the face of discrimination and to the transformative power of unity, determination, and purpose.

As we reflect on this legacy, IFAAD reaffirms its commitment to confronting all forms of discrimination and inequality. The lessons of indentureship—and indeed the experiences of all our peoples—compel us to build a Guyana where dignity, equal opportunity, justice, and respect are guaranteed for every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, or background.

Let this anniversary inspire renewed resolve to promote inclusion, protect human rights, strengthen social cohesion, and honour the contributions of all who have helped shape Guyana’s past and continue to build its future.

Together, we can honour the past by shaping a just and equitable future for present and coming generations.

Happy Indian Arrival Day.

Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD)