GAWU urges respectful, peaceful observances for Diwali

See the full statement from the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union below:

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is delighted to extent best wishes and greetings to all Guyanese, and particularly the Hindu community, on the occasion of the Festival of Lights – Diwali. The GAWU recognizes that the observances of Diwali have now grown into a national observance as all our peoples, in one way or another, take part in the observances. Our Union is heartened by such developments as festivals like Diwali undoubtedly help to bring our people closer together in the spirit of attaining One Guyana.

The enduring message of Diwali speaks to the illumination of light in darkness. The story underscores the very often tested defeat of evil by the forces of good. We believe the lessons of Diwali remain very much relevant in our times. Today, we cannot fail to ignore those who seek to perpetuate divisiveness amongst our peoples. It is, for the GAWU, a disturbing and worrying feature of our times. Advocates of such messages should be rounded rejected and condemned. We are, however, convinced that like the intrigues that punctuate the story of Diwali, those who seek to divide us will not succeed and the forces of good will once again triumph.

As Guyanese prepare to observe Diwali in their own way, we urge that they do so in a respectful and peaceful manner. We are encouraged by the observances thus far and we are certain that the lights of the diyas will only serve not to illuminate our physical surroundings but our minds as well.