Guyanese United’s “Get out the Youth Vote” event was a great success. There were several hundred individuals who milled in and out throughout the afternoon and benefited from the announcements which were delivered approximately 45 minutes apart. The initial start was scheduled for 1:00 pm but because of the heat, the attendees started to arrive after 2:30 p:m. I’m sharing below a quick synopsis of the event for the Guyanese United followers and supporters.
There was a good response from attendees during the voter training sessions. Several from discussions seemed intimidated by the voting process and used the excuse of apathy to hide the fact that going to the polls is unfamiliar territory, which places them outside their comfort zone.
From the feedback I got from talking to attendees, it is clear that civics must be a part of the curriculum in schools. The syllabus should encompass the responsibility of citizenship, e.g, voting, community development and relationships, nation-building, and the constitution. The process of voting must be practiced and the electoral should be role-played so that it becomes second nature.
I am very happy to say that the people mentioned below were instrumental in making this event possible and their commitment at such short notice demonstrates that as United Citizens we can achieve almost anything. A special mention to Mr. Stanley Ming and Ms. Ede Tyrell for their financial support.
This event would not have been possible without the help of those below:
Organizers | Food and facilities preparation | Doners |
Yours truly (Ian G. Hall) Odessa Primus Raymond Hall James Bond Andrea Marks Ericka Kirton Anisha Yearwood |
Elizabeth Wilson Melecia Martin Vinetta Deflorimonte Trevon Simpson Tracy Nero Philipe Hinds Wendell Thom Alicia Nero |
Stanley Ming Ede Tyrell Harold Hopkinson Carol Fraser Wesley Kirton Demerara Distillers Limited Aubrey Stephenson Melanie Wilson Cornel Ferdinand Barbara DeAbreu Jane Emptage Morgan Rosemarie Terborg Davis Several others who brought beverages |