Kaieteur News – Guyana

As observances for World Interfaith Harmony Week continue, individuals from the various religious groups came out in their numbers yesterday for the ‘Harmony Walk’.

The walk started at the Cenotaph and ended at the Promenade Gardens, where there was a religious programme and cultural show. Present were leaders from the Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Baha’i and Rastafarian faiths.

Those gathered were treated to songs and dance, as well as readings from the different groups.
Bishop Juan Edghill who was one of the prominent participants, said the turnout was as expected, while noting that all of the other activities that were held for the observances were well attended.

According to Bishop Edghill, the week of activities was not only fruitful, but saw all the religious organisations working together.
“Not very often you would find all religious organisations coming together in one place to celebrate, but this week was exceptional.”

Meanwhile, Ras Simeon of the Rastafarian faith, noted that being accepted and allowed to be a part of ‘World Interfaith Harmony Week’ has given even more recognition to Rastafarians. He added that while they are pleased with most practices of the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) the Rastafarian community still has some issues which they will be pursuing, such as the sacramental use of the ‘holy herb’.The Rastafarian leader said himself and other dedicated persons to the faith are not being allowed to practice their religion, as it is in the case of others.
“We are not being given equal opportunities and this is unfair.”

Yesterday’s activity was one of a series planned by the IRO.

The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on October 20, proclaiming the first week of February every year, World Interfaith Harmony Week. Guyana happens to be among the 29 nations who were co-sponsors of the resolution, and as a result, is part of the week-long celebration.

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