Mayor of the City of New York, Eric L. Adams, on July 22, honored five nationals for their exceptional contributions, noting that Guyanese believe in family, faith, business, and public safety, during a dynamic reception on the lawn of Gracie Mansion in Manhattan, that celebrated the multi-cultural heritage of the compatriots.

The honorees are Community Leader Board 17, Brooklyn, Sherif Barker, Boxing Champion Elton Dharry, Community Advocate Claire Patterson-Monah, Chutney artist Terry Gajarj of the hit song ‘Guyana Baboo,’ and radio host Isiah Chappelle.

 Adams, New York City’s 110th mayor, is seeking re-election on Nov. 4 as an Independent candidate. He spoke of the rich spirit of the Guyanese community represented under the big tent, adorned with the colors of Guyana’s Golden Arrowhead flag.

“As you look throughout my entire administration, you see the rich spirit of the Guyanese community, that’s here. Being mayor is both substantive and symbolic. They go together, he said, noting that just as many people have adored Gracie Mansion, “but no one has brought such beautiful colors and culture here as this Guyanese community has done today,” said the politician.

“What I learned about the Guyanese community is that they love telling you they’re from Guyana. That whole energy, and pride, and now that you have discovered oil, good Lord, he quipped. “You mean a lot to our community. And sometimes when we see representation in city government, you don’t realize the impact.” 

“It’s the diversity that allows us to bring all our cultural understanding to make sure that we bring that spirit. “Think about what Matt Fraser has done as the chief technology officer, free, high-speed broadband for NYCHA residents, allowing us to use technology to empower and encourage our young people.”

“He has changed the landscape of the city with his ability to look and see how technology can improve our lives. He’s Guyanese. That’s how he brought that energy and spirit there,“ said Adams. 

Applauding Tania Kinsella, who spoke of being proud to be of Guyanese lineage, Adams said, “Look at Tania, the first Guyanese to be the first deputy commissioner of the New York City Police Department, the largest police department in the entire country. She’s the second in charge of that operation; that says a lot. She brings the energy, the spirit, empowering not only Guyanese women, but women across this entire city.“ “Look through the administration, and you will see it repeatedly.”

“It took 110 mayors before the 140,000 strong Guyanese were able to raise their flag at Bowling Green. Your flag is now raised at Bowling Green, where we celebrate the independence of what your country stands for. The symbolism is just as important as the substantive things you do because you must tell the diversity of the city that everyone is invited, everyone is united, everyone is part of what makes this city great.” 

“We have the best product going, and this is the country where you can love your motherland and embrace your adopted land. That’s why that dash is between the names of being Guyanese American, because you still love the beautiful country of Guyana, but you embrace your adopted land that we call America. That’s who makes us [who] we are and what we are,“ said Mayor Adams. 

“I thank you for coming out tonight. Let’s continue celebrating the rich Guyanese culture, food, clothing, dance, and music. You believe in family, you believe in faith, you believe in business, and you believe in public safety. And our law enforcement officers here, representing you, are the ambassadors of what’s great about this city. We want to celebrate our five honorees,” said Mayor Adams, who introduced Guyanese Sookranie Dhanpat, who served as emcee.

In brief remarks, Consul General to New York, Michael E. Brotherson expressed thanks to Mayor Adams and his team for organizing, “this excellent event. I’m happy that so many of us have turned out because the celebration today is about Guyana. I want to thank you for showing what Guyana is about,“ he said to Mayor Adams.

“We are here in numbers because we recognize and understand the important role Guyanese play in the New York diaspora. Many amongst us have excelled in numerous fields and endeavors and have helped to make New York a better place,“ said CG Brotherson.

Assembly member David I. Weprin of District 24 applauded Mayor Adams for always being in Queens. He has a favorite restaurant. Mayor Adams is everywhere; he’s in every community, and he participates in many different events for the Guyanese community and culture. He is someone who should be appreciated.”

“He has been doing a great job reaching out to all communities. It’s great to see so many of my constituents. I’m very proud of our Guyanese American community,“ said Assembly Member Weprin.

New York City Chief Technology Officer Matthew C. Fraser said, “I’m proud to say that I’m of Guyanese lineage. My mom and dad are both from Guyana. ” He added that he is the first African American to hold the position and the youngest ever, thanks to Mayor Adams, with whom he worked to provide public housing with free access to broadband internet service.

 “It is an honor to be the person who sits in the seat. Being in this position requires someone who has strong family bonds, and because of what I grew up with in my house, my Guyanese ancestors, and the love that my parents showed me, I was able to be here today. What a great day to celebrate Guyanese. Thank you all for coming out,“ said Fraser.

The honorees expressed gratitude to Mayor Adams for the prestigious honor and for hosting the reception that showcased the extraordinary talents of their compatriots.

President of the Guyana American Heritage New Jersey, Lady Ira Lewis, congratulated Mayor Adams on behalf of all Guyanese and extended a heartfelt thank you for the exceptional program he hosted at Gracie Mansion.

James Richmond’s rousing poem, The Drums of Guyana, accompanied by African drummer Akoyaw Rudder, kicked off an exuberant cultural presentation showcasing Indian, African, Kumfa, and Masquerade dance expressions against a backdrop of the colors of Guyana’s Golden Arrowhead flag.

In addition to tasty Guyanese cuisine, celebrants danced the evening away to Caribbean music, spun by DJ Fess, for a memorable heritage reception at Gracie Mansion.

Other guests included Senator Kevin Parker, who represents the 21st Senatorial District in Brooklyn, and Fazil Joe Yusuff, head of the Diaspora Unit in the Guyana Consulate.