Dear Editor,
In this beloved country of ours, there seems to be never a dull moment. What is truly alarming is the notion of self, instead of being our brother’s keeper. Greed and avarice have taken a strong hold on many of us, but I refuse to despair, and constantly remind myself and others that the best and most productive years are ahead of us.
Let me digress and focus on the ethnic imbalance that is unfortunately the bane of all our problems. I am also convinced that with equitable distribution of proceeds of our abundant resources the biblical thirty pieces of silver will be both unattractive and unacceptable. First let me deal with the indigenous population of Guyana, which although not totally neglected, must be integrally involved in any policy-making decisions, especially in the hinterland locations where they reside. Most Guyanese fail for whatever reason to fully appreciate how intelligent, articulate and resourceful Amerindians really are, since sadly they were never exposed to them in their own environment, as this writer has been in different regions of Guyana. Whenever I hear indigenous people referred to as brothers and sisters when politically convenient, I try not to be sarcastic, the fact that my maternal grandmother Mary Magdalene Stephens was from Troolie Island in the Essequibo notwithstanding. The Amerindian vote is critical in this coming election and future ones. Any astute politician worth his salt would recognize this undeniable fact. The census return of British Guiana in the year 1911 gave the number of Amerindians as 6,901. The census for the year 2002 lists the figure as 68,675, therefore it may be the case that in 2011 the indigenous population figure is in the vicinity of 80,000.
The Amerindian Population
Year Population
1911 6,901
1980 40,343
1991 46,722
2002 68,675
2011 80,000?
For Guyana to have improved growth and development, the existing indigenous conditions must be addressed. Let us formulate a comprehensive hinterland strategy so all of our ethnic groups can enjoy the fruits abundantly evident in this land of many waters.
Yours faithfully,
Lloyd W Davidson
