See the full statement from the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on the occasion of Diwali 2020 below:
Diwali, the festival of lights, is yet another manifestation of the rich culture of Guyana. Diwali characterised by lit diyas beautifully adorning homes and temples reminds us of the powerful message of the occasion. The festival symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Now a nationally-embraced public holiday, Diwali captures the attention — even participation — of thousands of Guyanese citizens, including non-Hindus. The festival threatens darkness in all its forms, and influences the emergence of an illuminated society in which there exists understanding, tolerance, love and cordiality. Festivals like Deepavali serve to rekindle hopes and expectations, and influence society in a positive direction.
This year’s Diwali’s carries even more significance as our country and indeed the world is caught in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we recognise the massive toll the pandemic has extracted we are imbued by the message of Diwali. We are reminded that even the darkest nights have an end and mankind will once again succeed in this latest travail.
Absent from this year’s Diwali will be the colourful and spectacular motorcade floats which attract thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life. While many Guyanese will certainly miss the event, we urge appropriate and safe celebrations and for our people to abide with the COVID-19 protocols.
Our brief message, therefore, is for the celebrants and leaders alike let the diyas of the mind illuminate wisdom in all communities, in places of work and worship, in Government and Parliament, to lighten the poor man’s burdens through righteous policies and programmes.
This is the least, but the most sought-after that the Union can hope for.
Happy Diwali 2020!
