Bridging Divides Through Shared Heritage: The Voice of Indigenous Language in Guyana
Written by EDYOU FM Staff on May 21, 2025
Observed every year on May 21, World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development celebrates the richness of cultures across the globe and highlights the essential role of intercultural dialogue in building peace and promoting sustainable development. This day was established by the United Nations in 2002, following UNESCO’s 2001 Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, which recognized culture as a powerful tool of prosperity, inclusion, and worldwide union.
On this day, we’re reminded of how heritage, especially through Indigenous languages and traditions, has the power to connect, heal, and unite communities.
Skeitha Sabanto-Uni Thomas (Right)
Skeitha Sabanto-Uni Thomas, a proud Lokono woman, language activist, and educator, is one of the leading voices in this movement in Guyana. For her, language is far more than communication: it’s an identity, memory, and a living connection to her ancestors.
“Born to fluent Lokono speakers, I grew up with the language as part of my everyday life,” she shared. “It’s like taking the torch from my mom and blazing the trail.”
This year’s theme, “Bridging Divides Through Shared Heritage,” holds deep personal meaning for Skeitha. She sees it as a call for all Guyanese to learn from one another and celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our nation.
“Guyana is a colorful country. Understanding each other and respecting each other’s culture is what will bring us closer. That’s what will keep us closely knitted as Guyanese.”
According to Skeitha, Indigenous languages carry centuries of environmental knowledge, medicinal wisdom, and a spiritual connection to the land.
“Our languages define us. They pass on traditional knowledge and keep us aware of who we are. Incorporating it into daily life is the only way to keep it alive.”
From herbal medicine to deep ecological respect, Indigenous communities have preserved invaluable knowledge. And Skeitha believes these teachings are not exclusive; they’re a gift to all Guyanese.
She also sees a growing sense of pride among Indigenous youth. With tools like social media and the medium, younger generations are rediscovering their cultural identities and using their voices to keep their traditional and heritage alive.
However Still, some challenges remain. Misunderstandings, limited exposure, and lingering stereotypes continue to keep the
Indigenous culture at the margins of mainstream society Ms Skeitha explained.
In her final words, she offered a lesson from her culture to the world:
“Appreciate who you are. Stick to your roots. Know and embrace your cultural identity. When you understand where you come from, you become a better person.”
And with a warm smile, she shared a greeting in her native language:
“Moroko Moroko Namakwa” Greetings, everyone.
