The Importance of February 23rd On the 23rd February 1970, forty two years ago, Guyana became a Co operative

Republic. This simply meant that the Monarch (Queen of England) was no longer the Head of State of Guyana. This date was chosen to reflect on the 1763 Berbice Slave Revolt led by Cuffy- the slaves fight for freedom. After becoming a Co operative Republic there were many changes in Guyana. A few of these changes were: . nationalization of industries such as bauxite and sugar . the Governor General was replaced by a titular President (not executive) . we became in charge of our own court system To celebrate Guyana becoming a Co operative Republic festive activities were planned. History of how Mashramani came into being Since Guyana became independent in 1966, the Jaycees of Linden had been organizing an independence Carnival in Linden formally Mackenzie. When Guyana became a Republic on February 23rd 1970, they formed a Jaycees Republic Celebrations Committee. Mr. Basil Butcher (retired West Indies cricketer) was selected as chairman. Jim Blackman was appointed as his Deputy. A broad based committee including resource personnel such as Wordsworth Mc Andrew, Arthur James Seymour and Adrian Thompson were involved in the organization of the Carnival activities. The search for a name to replace the word carnival began and it was suggested by Chairman Butcher that an Amerindian word be chosen, hence the name Mashramani was given to the festivities that took place. On 23rd February, 1970 the festival of Mashramani was a huge success with over three days of fun. People were drawn from many regions of Guyana to Linden to welcome Guyanas status as a Co operative Republic. After witnessing the massive crowds, fun, and glitter, Mr. David Singh, a government official, held discussions with the Jaycees committee about bringing the event to Georgetown, the nations capital. Approval was given by the then Prime Minister Mr. Forbes Burnham for Mashramani to be the National Event for the Republic celebrations. Mashramani activities were celebrated in Linden, Berbice and Georgetown but due to sponsorship problems the costume bands contest remained in Georgetown. To date competitions in dance, song and physical display to name a few are held at the National Cultural Centre and Sports Hall during the weeks leading up to the 23rd. Various levels of schools enter these competitions and prizes are awarded for those who place between first and third.

The curtain come down on 23rd February with the judging of the float parade. Prizes are given to winners of the various categories.