MASH BUZZ

Weekly viewpoint by Robert Persaud MBA

Mashramani buzz has been in the air even before Cabinet signalled its go-ahead that the flood situation would not prevent this year’s celebration as happened in 2005. Understandably, Mash 2005 was put-off as a large segment of the population was flooded out. There was much anticipation that this year’s would be bigger and better. Clearly, those affected by this year’s flooding would not be forgotten and would be in the minds of all revelers.

Judging from the regional events, Calypso and Soca competitions, Children’s Mash activities and yes, the Media Mash jump-up; the buzz was loud in the air. Everyone seemed set for a grand and exciting week of activities.

The Government has once again been generous in providing resources and support in ensuring that this Mash will be truly a big one and attracting support wide and far. A commendable feature has been the response by the private sector to this year’s Mash. Welcome too, is the decision by the PNCR to join the national Mash celebration rather than going its own route as happened in the past. In fact, the decision by the PNCR leadership in the past to divide the celebration has been unwise and counter to national loyalty. The views of its supporters to go with the national parade won out.

The Mash buzz was given life by children and the young who joined the various events. The sparkle in their eyes during the Children’s Mash Float parade and even the various competitions must have encouraged the elders to get in groove for their shows.

Some of the music too were of a higher standard and certainly would see more gyration and less dependency on non-Guyanese music. Our local artistes have shown in this Mash that they are holding their own and ought to be commended and supported in all respects. It is for that reason that I urged that the Media Mash Jump-Up gave prominence to local artistes and I do hope we can have more listeners and buyers of indigenous music.

We must not lose sight of this year’s Mash theme – a Cultural Mix in 2006. This is reflective of the evolving role of Mashramani in forging unity in our rich diversity. I am not oblivious to the earlier apprehensions – cultural and otherwise - about the activities associated with Mashramani. More and more, people’s sensitivities are considered by the National Mash Committee in the type and conduct of Mash-related activities. All groups need to send suggestions, participate and give it the type of flavour and colour so as to make it a truly national and broad event.

No one would dispute that improvements would certainly be most welcomed. More comments and observations do reflect a keen national interest in this most important national celebration. At the end of the day, it is to use a colloquial phrase, is `ah we ting’.

The Mash buzz also helps to relax the national nerves, especially in light of the floods and attempts by certain elements and groups to ‘hot-up’ the atmosphere ahead of national elections. Every nation deserves period of national reflection and relaxation. Too many times we under-sell our selves. We need less self-flagellation, a break from the overwhelming negativism in some quarters.

Most importantly, Mashramani allows us to celebrate our Republican status. Further, it showcases our rich, beautiful talent and culture of our people. The float parade and other activities are intended to show how united, committed and fun-loving people we are. It is another opportunity to tell ourselves and the world that we are a nation not burdened by a past. Our huge participation, however, shows we are set to continue our forward journey as a Republic, committed to the ideals of our freedom fighters.

I am sure the atmosphere of feeling good permeates our daily lives beyond Mash Day. It will allow us to ignore those who preach protest, division and inclined to take us down the path of confrontation in our daily social interactions. Let this Mash be an opportunity for us to prepare mentally for the challenges in 2006. Let it remind us of what we want for Guyana and all of its peoples.

A grand and exciting Mash to all.

(This viewpoint was prepared on the eve of the float parade in Georgetown.)

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