Celebrating Stephen Campbell Day: Honoring Guyana’s First Amerindian Parliamentarian

Every year, on September 10, Guyanese across the nation come together to honor the remarkable legacy of Stephen Joseph Campbell, the first Amerindian to serve in the Parliament. This day transcends the celebration of one man’s historic achievements. It symbolizes the strides made in Indigenous representation and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice for all Amerindian communities.

Stephen Campbell made history in 1957 when he became the first Amerindian to sit in Parliament. His election was a groundbreaking event during a period when Indigenous people had little to no political voice. This monumental achievement marked the dawn of a new era, one where the voices of the indigenous communities could finally resonate in the halls of power. Campbell’s tireless advocacy for Amerindian land rights and cultural preservation created a lasting impact on Guyana’s political landscape. His efforts peaked in the passage of the 1961 Amerindian Act, which safeguarded the ancestral lands and the cultural heritage of Indigenous communities.

As the country celebrates Stephen Campbell Day, the legacy of his life’s work reminds us that honoring him means continuing the fight for representation and equality. It is a call to ensure that every voice, particularly those of the marginalized, has a seat at the table. This day encourages all Guyanese to envision a future where every citizen, regardless of heritage or background, can thrive in a spirit of unity and mutual respect.

Stephen Campbell’s Early Life and Journey to Politics

Born on December 26, 1897, in Moruca, North West District, Stephen Campbell was of Arawak (Lokono) and Portuguese descent. His parents, Tiburtio Campbell and Maria dos Santos, raised him in Region One, where his passion for advocating for his people was ignited. In 1917, Campbell traveled to Sawariwau in the Rupununi, where he worked as a teacher and founded the first school for the Wapisiana people. His dedication to education led him to Siriki, Pomeroon, where he continued his teaching career and met his future wife, Umbelita da Silva, the daughter of a coffee planter. Together, they raised eight children, two of whom—David Campbell and Stephanie Correia—later gained national and international acclaim as artists.

After 17 years in the Pomeroon, Campbell then embarked on extensive travels all across Guyana, engaging in a variety of industries, including farming, logging, gold mining, and education. His work and experiences in these diverse fields prepared him for his eventual thrust into politics in 1957. Motivated by the need for Amerindian representation at the highest levels of government, Campbell entered politics at the age of 60. Representing the National Labour Front (NLF), he became the first Amerindian Member of Parliament following that year’s general elections, a landmark achievement for Guyana’s Indigenous people.

Stephen Campbell (DPI)

Campbell’s Political Impact

Despite initial skepticism over his age, Campbell remained undeterred in his mission to represent his people. He took on several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for Amerindian communities. For example, he persuaded the Superintendent of Pure Water Supplies to visit Hosororo to witness firsthand the residents’ struggles, which ultimately led to the installation of a much-needed water pump.

Campbell was also an advocate for economic development, particularly in advancing the ‘5C’ industries—citrus, coffee, cocoa, coconuts, and cattle. He was instrumental in securing funds for the Wauna-Yarakita agricultural project and the construction of a 22-mile road from Kwebana to Moruka, which facilitated greater access to land for development.

Amerindians from across the country trusted Campbell to address their concerns. In 1958, he successfully advocated for increased remuneration for Amerindian captains, raising the monthly stipend from a meager $10. However, his greatest legacy was his fierce defense of Amerindian land rights. As Guyana approached independence, Campbell led the charge to ensure that Indigenous lands would be legally protected, culminating in the establishment of the 1961 Amerindian Act.

Final Years and Campbell’s Legacy

In 1964, Campbell became the first president of the newly formed Amerindian Association of Guyana. As Guyana faced political unrest that same year, he led a delegation to the colonial governor, seeking to prevent coastland violence from spilling into hinterland communities. His advocacy played a crucial role in securing Amerindian land rights and ensuring that their voices remained central to the national dialogue.

After being re-elected to the House of Assembly in 1964, Campbell was appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, with special responsibility for Amerindian affairs. Tragically, however, Campbell passed away on May 12, 1966, just two weeks before Guyana achieved independence.

Stephen Campbell’s legacy is deeply felt today. It lives on in every Amerindian leader who enters the political arena, every policy that aims to uplift Indigenous communities, and every movement dedicated to justice and inclusion. His story stands as a beacon of perseverance, representation, and pride for all Guyanese. In one of his most memorable addresses, Stephen Campbell remarked, “The Amerindian people are a part of this nation’s fabric, and we have always been here. Our voices must not only be heard—they must help weave the future of this country.” These words continue to inspire, reflecting his enduring belief in inclusion and the importance of acknowledging the contributions of all Guyanese.

Amerindian Heritage Month Celebrations

During the month of September, Guyana honors her First Peoples with vibrant celebrations that include traditional native performances, educational programs, and reflective speeches. These events recognize the contributions of notable Amerindians in various sectors, and also serve as reminders of the progress made in the advancement of Indigenous People.

This annual national celebration began on September 10, 1995, when Prime Minister Cheddi Jagan officially designated September as Amerindian Heritage Month in recognition of Stephen Campbell’s historic election to Parliament on September 10, 1957. Amerindian Heritage Month 2025 is being celebrated under the theme, “Igniting Unity, Celebrating Progress, Advancing Our Culture”. This year’s Heritage village is Nappi in Region 9.

As we honor his memory today, Stephen Campbell’s contributions continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all of the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and respect for Indigenous voices in Guyana.

By Hillon Lacruz