The 44th Annual Labor Day West Indian Day Parade was eventful. Arriving was stress free and in the beginning the place looked very organized.
Although for majority of the parade New Yorkers actually stayed behind the barricades which could have been easily breached, some by-standers
felt it was necessary to join and participate in the parades even with the presence of NYPD at every block along Eastern Parkway. What I
couldn’t understand was why shooting still occurred out there.It looked like every police officer was at the Parade and yet madness still
happened, but so it goes every year, regardless everyone enjoyed themselves.
Food and souvenirs were in abundance along the parade route and everyone was representing to the fullest. I was surprised at the organisations that went into this Parade. It was much different than Caribana, it wasn’t as congested at least not on the Parade route each float had its time to pass by and showcase itself before the next one would reach, which allowed us to get some great photos and video. The floats started out boring mostly all political parties and the mayor of NYC showed his support waving a couple of flags that I’m sure he didn’t even know for what country they belonged to.
The better and not so boring part of the parade featured floats from organisations, associations, local businesses and the Mas Players/Revellers from New YorK. Some costumes were patriotic and some were a bit too revealing but nevertheless everyone represented where they came from. There’s nobody who represents bigger and harder than the Guyanase people, our flag was flown, worn, painted, sewed, glued on every body part and piece of clothing available, it was really a moment to remember.
Due to past occurrences and fear, some people disassociate themselves with the Labor Day /West Indian American Day Carnival activities. I don’t think it’s necessary. You show up early, find a good spot, stand or sit and when the parade is over and “you full your belly till it swell” then get out of there. If you are looking for trouble then that is what you will find. If you are looking for somewhere to end your summer festivities, NYC is the place to be.
See pictures from this event at –> GuyanaLive.com Gallery
By – Luanna Pedro