Guyanese in New Jersey celebrate 49th Independence anniversary

Honourable Congressman Donald Payne, Jr, State Officials, and representatives of various Government agencies at the flag raising ceremony in New Jersery

Last Tuesday, the Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj recently collaborated with New Jersey high ranking politicians out of Washington D.C., State and local officials, to observe Guyana’s 49th Independence Anniversary celebration with a Flag raising ceremony at Jersey City, New Jersey.

Remembering from whence one comes and maintaining strong ties, are likely to have strong positive impacts on one’s life. Embracing and keeping one‘s heritage alive, lays the foundation for progress. Paying tribute to the country that had given overseas based Guyanese so much, is a laudable act. HMNJAS recognizes the significance of Guyana’s independence for the advancement of Guyanese and others. So, it organized an Independence celebration at Jersey City Town Hall.

The welcome remarks for the occasion were made by Khemraj (Chico) Ramchal, the first elected Guyanese-born Councilman in the State of New Jersey.  Khemraj thanked the NJASHM once again for hosting the  Independence celebration at City Hall. Pandit Suresh Sugrim, President of the HMNJAS’s and planning committee also extended a hearty welcome to the Honorable Mayor of Jersey City, Steven M. Fulop as well as members of the U.S. Congress and other State and local dignitaries.

The chairman of the proceedings was Pt. Suresh Sugrim who praised the Hon Mayor and his administration for allowing the Guyanese-Americans to use the City Hall for this purpose, and to be a part of the Guyana celebration. Pt Sugrim also said that he is looking forward to working with the Mayor and his team in addressing the social issues within the City of Jersey City.

Prayers were offered by Pastor Shoemaker (Christian) Pandit Arun Gossai (Hindu) Farouk Juman (Muslim).  The American National Anthem was sung very nicely by 11 year-old  Brianna Lutawana who received a standing ovation from the audience. The Guyana National Anthem was sung by Rick Ramdihol. The dynamic first -term Mayor of Jersey City thanked the organization for doing such a wonderful job in the State of New Jersey as well as internationally.

The Mayor said that he did some research before attending the function and was impressed with the work of the organization. He conveyed words of gratitude to His Excellency President David A. Granger for sending a personal message to this event. The Mayor said that he is proud of the contribution of Guyanese Americans and is happy also that the City has a Guyanese-born councilman.

The Guyana Head of State’s message to the Independence Observance was read by Parmanand Lutawan.  The President thanked HMNJAS for hosting the event and expressed regret that he couldn’t be there in person.

Guyana’s Deputy Consul General Hon Mohamed Khan spoke on the importance of freedom and expressed his gratitude to all those who fought for it. He asked everyone to support the work of the HMNJAS both in the U.S. and in Guyana.

Congressman Honorable Donald Payne Jr, observed: “since its independence from Great Britain in 1966, Guyana has and continues to be a nation with a rich history and a diverse culture. It is also a privilege for me to recognize the Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj for all their hard work and dedication. Your organization does tremendous work in assisting the needs of Guyanese American population, especially in the City of Jersey City, the State of New Jersey and Guyana. It is because of individuals such as yourselves, that those who come to America can be given the opportunities they deserve and the ability to pursue their dream.”

The NJASHM received special Congressional recognition from Honorable Donald M. Payne Jr.  Senate Recognition, Proclamations, Citations and Resolutions were received from the State Government and other local Government agencies. Pt Sugrim, in his closing remarks, thanked everyone for their support in making the event memorable and productive. He commended the Jersey City’s administration for their involvement in that program as well as for their service to Guyanese, West Indian and other communities.   (Photos by Ram’s Photography)