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Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar urged citizens to reaffirm their dedication to justice, peace, harmony, tolerance, respect, and goodwill as the nation celebrates Indian Arrival Day 2024
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“Let us strive together for a brighter and more prosperous Trinidad and Tobago. Happy Indian Arrival Day!”
As Trinidad and Tobago prepare to commemorate Corpus Christi and Indian Arrival Day on May 30, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar highlights the nation as a beacon of multicultural harmony. She emphasized the significance of these dual celebrations, where Corpus Christi, a predominantly Roman Catholic observance, coincides with the remembrance of the first East Indian immigrants who arrived in 1845 aboard the Fatel Razack, media reports said.
In her message marking the 179th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day, Persad-Bissessar reflected on the historical journey of over 140,000 Indians who braved the Kala Pani to settle in Trinidad and Tobago between 1845 and 1917, when the indentureship period ended.
“Their arrival marked a new era of economic, social, and cultural development, significantly influencing our unique national identity,” she stated. “Thanks to these pioneers, our country celebrates the unique integration of East Indian cuisine, music, dance, clothing, and festivals such as Divali, Eid-ul-Fitr, Phagwa, and Hosay, all integral to our cultural mosaic.”
The celebration marks “historical journey of over 140,000 Indians who braved the Kala Pani to settle in Trinidad and Tobago between 1845 and 1917, when the indentureship period ended.”
Persad-Bissessar expressed pride in Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse society, where various ethnicities unite to celebrate this holiday, a stark contrast to the global landscape marked by religious and ethnic conflicts. She praised the nation’s ability to maintain harmony amidst its diverse population, presenting it as a model of peaceful coexistence.
“This is the profound significance of Indian Arrival Day—a celebration of our democratic ideals and commitment to unity,” she added. “We honor the legacy and achievements of our East Indian ancestors, acknowledging that their sacrifices paved the way for our ongoing pursuit of equality and progress.”
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