Carifesta committee must involve expatriate Guyanese cultural figures

Dear Editor,

There has been some mention about expatriate Guyanese participants and winners of the Guyana Prize for Literature not being adequately involved in the literary processes at home.

Carifesta 2008 might just present them that opportunity for such involvement and the Carifesta Planning Committee might consider inviting them to participate in activities such as symposia, readings, book displays, signings and presentations.

In addition, other (even more) talented overseas-based Guyanese writers and professors of Literature, and even artists and musicians may also be invited to showcase their talents and give back something to their native land during this season of cultural extravaganza.

The Committee might also consider the awarding of Honorary Prizes to such outstanding exponents of Guyanese literature, art and culture as Professors Brenda Do Harris, Frank Birbalsingh, Vibert Cambridge, Stanley Greaves, Dr Gary Girdhari and a few others who have kept the Guyana flag fluttering proudly high in other lands.

Invitations to them should be sent early to afford them adequate time to plan their annual schedules, vacations, sabbaticals, etc.

Yours faithfully,

Gokarran Sukhdeo