As Canada works to rebuild its relationship with Indigenous People in Canada and worldwide, the Canadian High Commission in Guyana along with the Ministry of Tourism today commissioned a mural on a section of the fence of the Canadian High Commission in Georgetown.  

The mural represents the work of 25-year-old Indigenous artist Nigel Butler.

That artwork was done in a variety of colours depicting two arms, indigenous signs, and the Amerindian language of the Akawaios written as “we the first people”.

According to the High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, Mark Berman, the move by the Commission is a significant step in rebuilding the relationship between Indigenous People around the world and Canada.

“We have known that Canada historically has denied the right of indigenous people to a simulation of policies and practices and this is why Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, we continue to review nation to nation relationship of indigenous people face with the affirmation of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership. Either at home or abroad we believe reckoning of human rights violations and abuses; engaging in meaningful dialogue and working together with partners as a foundation to include and more inclusive society, where all can enjoy their freedom and rights”, High Commissioner Berman expressed.

He added that Canada is now on the path of rebuilding that relation by helping in the preservation of the culture of the indigenous people.

The High Commissioner also noted that even with Canada’s efforts, the country needs help to ensure that the way of life and more especially the language of the indigenous people are always preserved.

“The significance of this is rooted in global efforts to preserve indigenous languages since many of them are endangered and often not taught in school publicly. Current data indicate that at least 40% of the 7000 languages used worldwide are in some level of endangerment. Ahead of the decades of indigenous languages 2022- 2032, let’s make a concerted effort to support these preservation efforts”, the High Commissioner pleaded.

Minister of Tourism, Oneidge Walrond thanked the High Commission for its contribution, as it brings the two countries’ relationship closer while Guyana observes tourism awareness month.

“This artistic work which you have commissioned will take its place among many landmarks which will serve to enhance this particular section of our Georgetown”, the Minister said.

The Minister noted that there is also a need to celebrate the Indigenous people and their rich culture and history.

“This work of art prominently placed, will add to the voice and visibility of our Indigenous people. It joins the Umana Yana and the Guyana marine turtle monument, which are intimately connected to our indigenous people.”  Minister Walrond said.

The artist Nigel Butler explained that his inspiration for the artwork stemmed from the way people interact with each other using their hands.  

“The hands are the representation of human beings, the connection we share with each other, the way we share it. Hands do everything in our daily lives; they give us hope” he explained.

The young artist said being chosen to do the mural helped his creativity along the way.

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