Join the celebration of Amerindian Heritage Month 2024, honoring the rich culture and contributions of Guyana’s Indigenous communities. Discover the history and unity behind the theme ‘Many Voices, One Song’ this September
Amerindian Heritage Month 2024 was officially inaugurated yesterday by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in collaboration with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) at a ceremony held at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown, according to a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI).
This year’s celebration, themed “Many Voices, One Song. Celebrating Amerindian Heritage 2024,” introduces new activities designed to honor the rich cultural tapestry and invaluable contributions of Guyana’s first people. The theme emphasizes unity and the shared heritage of the Indigenous communities while celebrating their diverse cultures, languages, and traditions.
The late President Dr. Cheddi Jagan dedicated September as Amerindian Heritage Month in 1995, marking it as a time to ensure the contributions, culture, and history of Guyana’s Indigenous people are celebrated and preserved for future generations. This observance continues to grow in significance, with each year bringing renewed focus on the importance of cultural preservation, community development, and the recognition of Indigenous rights.
The inauguration at the Umana Yana, a traditional Indigenous meeting place, set the tone for a month filled with cultural events, educational programs, and forums aimed at highlighting the vital role of Amerindians in Guyana’s history and future.
Read more: The History of Amerindian Heritage Month