Amerindian Heritage Month 2022 Schedule of Activities

Stephen Campbell became the first Amerindian parliamentarian in Guyana on 10 September 1957. Guyana’s Prime Minister, Cheddi Jagan, officially designated September as Amerindian Heritage Month on 10 September 1995 in memory of Campbell’s achievement. The month also recognises and honours the country’s “first people” contributions. Heritage Day is on 10 September, and several activities occur throughout the month.

Quick facts about Amerindian Heritage Month (AHM)

• A crucial part of AHM is to help preserve cultural heritage.
• The government of Guyana invests in AHM to affirm and protect Indigenous languages, customs, and traditions.
• Activities include showcasing the art, works, and literature of Amerindians.
• The month-long celebration has increasingly attracted local and international interests.
• A Village host is chosen annually, and all villages celebrate the month with various activities.
• A representative of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is always present at these events.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Celebrating our traditional culture while building one Guyana.” We’ve got a breakdown of what you can expect this Amerindian Heritage Month.

Amerindian Heritage Month Events and festivities

10 September: Amerindian Village Day, Mainstay Whyaka, Region 2.

14 September: Stephen Campbell Life in an Evening, the Amerindian Village in Sophia.

17 September: Amerindian Heritage Pageant at the National Cultural Centre.

19 September: Amerindian Crafts, Cuisine, and Cultural Evening at the Amerindian Village in Sophia.

7-9 October: Amerindian Heritage Games daily at Everest Ground.

Other activities you may have missed or already seen include the media launch, interfaith service, launch ceremony, and the food, and craft exhibition. You can stay updated on the events and festivities by following the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Facebook page.

Sources: Guyana Times, Guyana Chronicle, Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, MOAA – FB, and DPI.