Where is the pride in citizenship?

Diplomats launch community cleanup challenge | Latest:

'via Blog this'

I am appalled and dismayed that international diplomats living in Guyana have taken on this clean up initiative. Not that I am ungrateful for their efforts, more like I am embarrassed.

EU Ambassador Robert Kopecky and his expecting wife Eliska cleaning up Georgetown, Guyana.
Source Demerara Waves.

As humans and citizens of the world we are encouraged to keep our surroundings clean. Just like combing our hair, brushing our teeth, ironing our clothes, and stepping out in a presentable manner. Growing up in the rural parts of Berbice, it was a community effort to keep our surroundings clean. I clearly remembered in the late 70s and 80s when my entire street would participate in clean up activities. Some of these massive clean up were planned, like after heavy rains. We would all make sure our drains are cleaned and grass cut in front of our homes and our neighbor's homes if need be. There really was no line. If I was cutting the grass in front of my home, I would extend to both of my side neighbors. My neighbor might be trimming the trees that border both of our homes. It was a community activity that happened whenever it was needed. No one asked us, no one made a big media splash. It was our home and we kept it clean.

These images of foreigners cleaning  up the streets of Georgetown, Guyana troubles me. Where is the community spirit? Why are foreigners cleaning up our home? Rest assured that these people no matter how pristine their background is, being in the diplomatic core, are tired of looking at filthy streets. Since nothing is getting done, they take it upon themselves to initiate a clean up. I am all for community spirit and everyone no matter who they are pitching in to assist. But this is a little embarrassing, someone else cleaning our mess. This is like someone walking into your kitchen and taking a scrub brush to your sink. Or going into your toilet and scrubbing it before they can use it. What does that say about us as a nation?

We really don't care about the way our country is portrayed in the eyes of the international community? Why would a tourist choose Guyana over the other pristine Caribbean destinations? Who would want to do business in a filthy country? These are the images broadcasted to the world. The message is loud and clear. In order to dwell in Guyana you have to clean it up first.

Let's put aside the international spectacle for a second. What about internally? How can you live in this mess? Why are you waiting for someone else to clean up this mess? Obviously, the trash was put there by someone. That someone is you! You scatter and litter expecting someone to pick up after you? Do you think your mom or dad is going to clean your crap up? Wake up, people! It is your actions that is causing this dilemma . Don't blame the government. They put systems in place for you to execute. It is your responsibility to follow the littering law. The legal system is already overloaded, should they issue arrest for menial littering? Maybe, it is time to make examples of people who break the littering laws.

One of my first memories of Georgetown was as a little boy invited to perform at the National Cultural Center. Yes, I dabbled in poetry and acting in primary school. Coming from rural Skeldon, I was in total awe of the well kept lawns, drains, flowers, plants, and clean streets.  Guyana was once a clean, pristine, and beautiful country. What happened to all the people who took pride in keeping our country clean? Are we all scattered in the diaspora? Will we ever be able to reclaim our once pristine country? Or do we have to depend on foreigners to lead the way? 

Embrace and Celebrate Guyanese Artists

Are you listening to Soca or Caribbean music in your car or on the train to work? Do you have a full playlist of Caribbean artist on your iPod or MP3 Player? Are those artist, Guyanese?

It has been a very common trend over the last few years for Caribbean artists to embrace “RUM CULTURE”. It is a culture where the very existence of oneself revolves around liquor, rum being the poison of choice in the Caribbean. Every social activity be it at home, the club, on the streets, in a relationship, rum shapes the actions of all involved.

Last year, there were numerous discussions with several up and coming Guyanese artists in a Facebook Group I admin, Skeldon Conversation. Most, if not all, of these artists wanted to promote their work through the group. Skeldon Conversation Admins’ stance is to stand ground and not promote a culture which takes away from the very fabric of our community. When asked, “Why would you make a video and sing about Liquor.” The response was unanimous, “It is the topic that sells.” Albeit, most of these videos promote RUM CULTURE in a very positive way. How can this contribute to the well being of our next generation?



Enter Stealth Productions, under the vision of Neil Anthony Bacchus. Stealth Productions is a multi fauceted media productions company which seek to create positiveness in our Guyanese community and beyond, through the lens of a camera. Neil works with Guyanese artists who promotes a positive environment for the next generation. In the sea of producers who are chasing the all elusive dollar, Neil rises head and shoulders above. Very few producers even bother to think about the impact of their creations on the impressionable minds of our young siblings. It is with no doubt that his newest creation “I Love Liquor” has a hard hitting message that will resonate, with flipping words on its head and taking a hard look at the ideals of Rum Culture.

I Love Liquor

The Music Video 'I Love Liquor' from Julius De Intelligent and Vijay Arjun looks at people on a night out. One group embraces the Rum Culture from his childhood with his aja and aji (grandparents) the other takes to heart the message of “Don’t Drink and Drive”. The result is a compelling look at how the right choices can shape your life. This compilation has been Nominated Best Soca Chutney Music Video Category by the International Soca Awards (ISA). The 10th Annual ISA is being held in Hollywood California.

This video was created, directed, shot and edited by Neil Anthony Bacchus of Stealth Productions.
Writers: Vijay Arjun, Rodney Julius and Jason Seenath
Producer: Jason Lee (BRI Records)
Mastered By: Paul Shields (VP Records)
© Stealth Productions MMXI

As a Guyanese and Caribbean community I strongly urge you to step behind these talented artists and celebrate their creativity by VOTING. Go to the Official ISA website and click on the VOTE button, complete all 29 categories listed, as you please, BUT on Category #19, choose “Vijay Arjun & Julius De Intelligent- I Love Liquor (Directed, Shot & Edited by Neil Anthony Bacchus of Stealth Productions).”

Share this post with your friends, relatives, and colleagues. Talk about this stance at your next gathering. Look out for your fellow revelers. Let’s change this RUM CULTURE to a positive environment for our next generation.


All materials, images, and content used with the permission of Stealth Productions.

We stomp the dreams of our own.

Reposted with permission from 

Ceara Roopchand 

4 hours ago via mobile · 

• A thought crept up on me last night. I know a lot of people have enough bad words to say about Guyana and the destruction caused by politics. I have often been told by various people I should not even bother going because Guyana is moving backwards. Well let me tell you that in life, young people especially expect everything to happen for them just like that. The world doesn't work that way! I've applied to hundreds of places for work experience or even a part time job in London- the business capital of the world and no one would even batter an eyelid at me. Instead I am using this summer to work with some of the most vulnerable women in Guyana and thanks to a certain someone I secured an internship in one of the best institutions in Guyana. So before you are quick to disrespect the country our ancestors gave up their freedom for, think twice and have a little respect for where you come from. If we all contributed a lil bit of our time and skills to do something good for the country imagine that impact by the end of our lifetime....

  
  

  Commentary: Here is a young impressionable mind, looking for ways to give back to the country of our birth and we stomp on her. Why do we stifle people like her? 

NJASMHM Finally breaks ground on Humanitarian Mission Village

After numerous hurdles, this much anticipated project will begin. The New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Humanitarian Mission will take this very important step on Saturday, March 24, 2012.

The blueprint and services offered promises to create a safe haven for victims of domestic violence, neglected seniors, men, women, and orphans. This village will be developed in phases as funds and support becomes available. Here is the start....

What were you doing one year ago?

Prayers, tears as Japan marks 1 year since massive earthquake - CNN.com:

'via Blog this'

As a wall of water headed to the Japanese coast and death seemed inevitable, what were you doing one year ago? After 21 years of living in America, I decided to visit my country of birth, Guyana. This just happened to coincide with the celebration of the Hindu festival, Phagwah. In Guyana, Phagwah is one of the many religious festivals celebrated by people of all fates. It is more or less neighbors celebrating with each other.

On this day, what I would come to find out was a horrible time for the Japanese people, I joined my cousins and neighbors for a grand Hindu/Guyanese celebration. We celebrated with everyone who lived on our street and then walked a couple of miles to my aunt's house and celebrated with everyone along the way. It was a joyous time. After a couple of hours, we all had a hearty meal. Then celebrated some more in a different form. The next day I called home to the US to find out that Anderson Cooper, CNN Anchor, was in Japan on an assignment. What the heck was he doing in Japan? What could have happened to warrant a CNN anchor to travel across the world? He makes these trips only when something really big has happened.

I was told a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and a devastating Tsunami hit Japan. Details were sketchy as the data poured in. When I asked people around me if anyone heard about an earthquake no one knew anything. So I went to #79 Market and asked around the couple of people I had gotten to know, none of them knew anything either. So here I was with one of the biggest natural disasters in modern history and the people of Skeldon had no idea what was going on. I tried the TV stations, the only half decent reception was a Surinamese channel. They did not carry the news. I tried connecting to the internet with my laptop from a friend's bar. There was an electrical blackout. Then, reality stepped in.

This is everyday life in Skeldon. What happens at the market or on the same street that people live on is just about all that people are aware of. No one is really aware of any happenings outside of their immediate surroundings. Am I looking at this like an alien? Of course there are people who have TV stations with CNN and MSNBC streaming live all day long. They also do not depend on the mighty Guyana Power and Light for their power generation. Their back-up generators kick on in an instant. Business and private dwelling goes on. But is seems to me that there are a handful of people who have these lines of communications.

The few who are fortunate to have live world news coverage and know what is going on outside of their immediate environs are not apt to share that information willingly. Granted these people have worked and amass wealth or are recipients of overseas assistance. Either way they have access to what the majority of people do not. I applaud them being able to be informed and know what is going on. It would be nice if more people can reach up and strive to achieve at least these basic functions. But it just seems that there really isn't that drive or desire. No motivation to want anything other than a mundane existence. Or perhaps, it is sufficient to pass on the reins to the next generation the same way it was passed on to them. I am still perplexed how after 21 years so much has changed and yet so little in Skeldon.

On my return flight to the US towards the end of March, my first image at JFK International Airport was of the Japanese earthquake on an airport TV. My experience a year ago has driven me to seek ways of reaching back into Skeldon. I am of a strong opinion that raising awareness and creating a international dialogue is a good start in bringing progress to Skeldon. Yes, the people who connect over the internet may already be on their way to heightened awareness. But maybe through a simple conversation and personal interaction with someone who is not bounded by the walls of Skeldon and Guyana there can be stirring of curiosity. Just maybe two groups of people can reach across continents and be as one. At least  there can be a sharing of ideas. Maybe this conversation can spill into a person who does not have information at their finger tips and a whole chain effect can take place. Wishful thinking? Maybe, but we can hope.

As I sit today and reflect on one of the world's largest natural disaster. It is enlightening to have access to all these images and commentary. I was just moved by a speech from the Emperor of Japan who is 79 years old, 2 days ago he had heart surgery. His speech was at the exact time one year ago 14:46 Hrs. (Japan time), being broadcasted live on CNN. The wonders of 24 hr news media. Had I not have access to information would I even bother to care? My heart and prayers go to out to the Japanese people and all who suffered and will continue to suffer for years to come from this catastrophic incident. May you find the strength to move forward.

Child Abuse & Neglect: Recognizing and Preventing Child Abuse

Child Abuse & Neglect: Recognizing and Preventing Child Abuse:

'via Blog this'

The most important step in addressing this escalating break down of our Guyanese society is recognizing that this cycle can be disastrous for our future generations. While physical abuse is very obvious, there are emotional and sexual abuse which are more latent.

The long term effects of this vicious cycle are being seen today. Take a look around and notice the broken relationships, lack of trust, low self esteem, and roller coaster emotional issues. Could all of these perils of society be prevented, if the signs were identified and addressed at an earlier age?

Often times, we see only the bruises and scars of physical abuse. While a generation ago we were made to believe that caning was appropriate at school and home, that has since changed. There are still some who remain that hitting a child garners the highest results of disciplining. Or is it physical abuse? Can we recognize that this form of discipline is detrimental to child development? What about the abusive language we use? "You good for nothing." We are instilling in our developing minds that they are not worth anything. How can we expect them to grow up and be brave to say no to an abuser? Child neglect plays a big role in children's self worth. A parent may not be physically able to take care of a child, older siblings may be left as parents. Or adults may be in depression, drug addiction, or alcoholism and neglect the care of their children. All of these instances are types of child abuse.

Child sexual abuse is fastly becoming the norm. It seems like everyday there is another report of a grown man with an under age girl. What about sexual abuse with boys? Are they being reported? Is the shame too much? The most frightening thing is, child sexual abuse happens at the hands of a close relative or a trusted person. The person who builds trust and has free access to the child are the ones who commit these predatory acts. Child sexual abuse is not only physical. There are elements of early exposure to sexual materials and situation that can be very harmful to a child's tender mind. The emotional burden of shame and guilt of a child can lead to suppression for a lifetime. Some people carry these acts for a lifetime. The burden and pain can shape their entire existence.

If this cycle is not broken soon, there may well be another generation of tortured souls. It is imperative that adults take stock in themselves and recognize their actions and how it affects their kids. Learn what is age appropriate material to expose your child to. Be responsible and learn proper parenting skills. Times are changing. How your parents raised you may not be the only way to raise your child. Break the cycle. Change is good. Reach out for help groups, talk to someone. You would be surprised how much help is out there if you only reach. Be the adult and embrace your child if this horrible act has happened to them. This is not the time for an interrogation or a who say, them say, and what you as an untrained professional can prove or not. This is the time to support your child, listen, love, and comfort. Reassure and keep your child safe.

Fund Drive for Bebi Devi

We, New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Humanitarian Mission, have been monitoring the dire situation of Bebi Devi (name used to secure privacy). This Guyanese young lady is a victim of Domestic Violence in the US. In a nutshell, saving the glory details to ensure privacy and legality, her husband has been violent to her and their 2 kids, 2 and 3 year olds for five years! Bebi Devi has finally gathered the strength to walk out with her kids. She has been living in a shelter for over a month now.

The kids were removed and granted custody to the father. Being that there are no kids, the shelter has notified Bebi Devi that she is no longer eligible for benefits including food and housing. She MUST remove herself from the property in the near future.

Most of this mission’s outreach has been for Guyanese living in Guyana. Our mission has decided to partner with Skeldon Conversation Facebook Group and envelope this situation with open arms of comfort and generosity. We are asking for the true outreach and graciousness of our sponsors and donors to once again bind together for the greater good. Please reach into your soul and help us render assistance to this daughter of Guyana, who has no immediate family in the US, but our extended bond of fellow country people. Our Paypal account is ready to accept your kindness.

Please go to our website , www.njaryasamaj.com, and click on the Donations tab, scroll down and click on PayPal. In the Add Message field please type Bebi Devi.

100% of your contributions will go directly to assisting Bebi Devi in getting on the path of dependence.

Sincerely,


Pandit Suresh Sugrim, President Eric Khadaroo, SC Group Admin.