“We are all strong together, and nothing must ever divide us.”
Those were the words from Member of Parliament for Tunapuna, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, speaking after an Indian Arrival Day event on Sunday.
It was a morning of pride and purpose as students from El Dorado North, El Dorado South, and Tunapuna Hindu Schools marched through the streets, celebrating a journey that began 180 years ago.
The event, which culminated in a cultural showcase at Tunapuna Hindu School, was attended by students, teachers, parents, and dignitaries, all honouring the legacy of their ancestors and the enduring contributions of the East Indian community.
MP Alexander emphasised the importance of unity and historical awareness during this time.
“Guide us as to the history of our togetherness. Guide them as to our history as a people so no one, no single person, no community, no country will be able to divide us.”
St. Augustine MP and Minister of Rural Development and Local Government, Khadijah Ameen, praised the schools for their commitment to cultural education.
“And while today we celebrate Indian Arrival Day, I say to you that it is important to impart your belief and your religion in your children.”
Principal of the Tunapuna Hindu School, Jeewan Ramdhanie, highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the event.
“Usually schools would have celebrated East Indian Arrival Day on their own, but this year we decided, as it is a momentous occasion, to come together and have this huge celebration in the East West Corridor.”
Principal of the El Dorado North Hindu School, Nalini Ramdhanie, reflected on the significance of the joint celebration.
“So marking this occasion of 180 years of Indian arrival, it shows our students awareness of our culture, what both Muslims, Hindus, and Christians in our East Indian descent have done for themselves, for our community, for our children to come, and the bigger picture for our country, Trinidad and Tobago.”
Principal of the El Dorado South Hindu School, Pundit Adesh Maharaj, pointed to the legacy and responsibility that should be imparted to children.
“The East Indians, the indentured labourers, would have come not knowing anybody here, not having anything and they have contributed significantly to the development of Trinidad and Tobago. Look at where we are today. Look at our country today. It’s prospering in so many different fields. The descendants of the East Indians have risen to the highest office in the land.”
The walkathon was more than a physical journey; it was a symbolic march through history, culture, and identity.