Guyanese leaders to receive US Congressional honors during Diamond Jubilee celebrations

A number of Guyana’s most distinguished sons and daughters, including Valerie Amos and former acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards, are poised to receive prestigious recognition from the United States Congress during New York–based celebrations commemorating Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee — its 60th Anniversary of Independence.

The honour underscores not only their individual achievements, but also the global impact and enduring legacy of Guyanese excellence on the international stage.

The observances, scheduled for June 5–7, 2026, will unfold under the theme “Feel The Riddim Of The Nation @ 60,” bringing together Guyanese at home and across the diaspora in reflection, celebration, and national pride.

According to organisers, the commemorative events are designed to highlight Guyana’s journey from slavery and colonial rule to social transformation and modern development, while strengthening cultural ties within the diaspora.

“In all of the planned events, the diamond jubilee celebration engenders national pride for every Guyanese as we reflect on the evolution of our heritage, history, culture and nationhood,” organisers said in a statement. “The theme ‘Feel The Riddim Of The Nation @ 60’ captures the mood of the diaspora as we approach this historic milestone.”

Major Events Planned

The multi-day observance will begin with an Independence Thanksgiving church service on May 31, followed by a series of cultural and civic events throughout the weekend.

A flag-raising ceremony is scheduled for June 5 at East Orange City Hall in New Jersey. On June 6, celebrations will continue with a soccer competition and awards dinner in Brooklyn.

The festivities will culminate on June 7 with the annual Guyanese Independence Parade and Unity Concert. The parade will assemble at Church and New York Avenue in Brooklyn and conclude at 1450 Utica Avenue and Glenwood Road, the tentative venue for the concert.

Congressional Honours for Outstanding Guyanese

As part of the Diamond Jubilee commemorations, several Guyanese who have demonstrated exceptional service locally and internationally will receive United States Congressional Awards.

The top honourees include:

• Valerie Amos — former Leader of the British House of Lords, former UK Minister of Overseas Development, and current Master of University College Oxford
• Yonette Cummings-Edwards — former Chancellor of the Judiciary of Guyana and Chief Justice-designate of Turks and Caicos Islands

Other honourees include:

• Shamir Ally, former Guyana Ambassador to Kuwait
• Rose October
• Maureen Walker
• Riaz Rupnarain
• Jayden Adrian
• Michael Clarke
• Ira Pile Lewis
• Indra Jainarinesingh
• Omotolo Golding
• Onoja Atta Onoja
• Terrence Campbell
• Rhonda Binda
• Remmy Kulsum
• Sandra Harte

Community Engagement and Participation

Organisers also announced the production of a commemorative journal highlighting Guyana’s development, the work of the organising committee, honourees, and Guyanese-owned businesses both locally and across the diaspora.

Businesses and individuals interested in being featured in the journal, or participating in the parade with music trucks, are encouraged to contact the organising committee.

A Milestone for the Nation and Diaspora

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations are expected to draw significant participation from the Guyanese diaspora throughout New York and surrounding areas, underscoring the enduring cultural ties and national pride shared by Guyanese worldwide.

As Guyana marks 60 years of independence, the celebrations aim to honor the country’s past, celebrate its achievements, and spotlight the global contributions of its people — from government and academia to business, culture, and community leadership.