The People’s National Congress extends greetings to all Guyanese, especially those of Portuguese descent, on the occasion of Portuguese Arrival Day as the nation observes the 186th anniversary of the arrival of the first Madeiran-Portuguese indentured immigrants.
David Granger, Leader of the People’s National Congress and as President of Guyana, issued a public notice on 27th February 2017 proclaiming 3rd May each year as ‘Portuguese Arrival Day.’ The intention then, as now, was to intensify national integration and foster social cohesion by according due respect and recognition to each ethnic group in society.
Portuguese immigration started in 1835 at a propitious moment in time marked by the anticipation of the emancipation of enslaved Africans. Portuguese Arrival Day celebrates the contribution which persons of Portuguese ancestry have made to nation-building. It is also a celebration of the plural character of the Guyanese nation and is intended to foster greater social cohesion.
Portuguese enterprise and their establishment of institutions to advance social development and social responsibility cemented their place in society. Migration and miscegenation have diminished their numbers but their contributions to the establishment of the Guyanese nation remain ineradicable.
The People’s National Congress wishes everyone a happy Portuguese Arrival Day.
