The first ever National Toushaos Conference was held 27-30 April 1999 in the Macusi village of Zeriwa (St. Ignatius), Region 9, Guyana. The Conference marked the first time in the history of gatherings of Amerindian leaders that Amerindians themselves have organised a meeting of such magnitude and set their own agenda for the meeting. Previous meetings of Amerindian leaders have always been organised by the government and conducted according to an agenda set by the government. The theme of the Conference was " Our Land, Our Culture, Our Life" or "Wa - boa - kou – pai – pan" in the language of the Wapisiana people. This report provides a summary of the proceedings of the First National Toushaos Conference.

Special thanks are due to the Rainforest Foundation US as without their generous support the Toushaos Conference would not have been possible. Special thanks are also due to the Amerindian Peoples Association of Guyana and the Region 9 Toushaos/Amerindian Council who worked very hard to organize the meeting and ensure its success.

The National Conference was organized in response to requests from Amerindian leaders that a meeting be held in which they could meet and share information with leaders from other parts of the country, a meeting where they could discuss their common concerns and work together to seek solutions to the many problems affecting Amerindians. They stated that a meeting where the leaders could meet and talk freely without fear of reprisals about the pressing issues they all face was desperately needed. High on the list of issues to be discussed were the Constitution reform process, Amerindian land rights, concerns about logging, mining and other activities on or near Amerindian lands, protected areas, particularly the proposed National Protected Areas System project, and the local government system and its impact on Amerindian village councils.

Toushaos from each of the ten regions of Guyana, except Region 4, attended the Toushaos Conference. The total number of Toushaos in attendance was 76. There were other community representatives present including cultural groups, village representatives, village councilors, and international invitees. While the total number of participants varied from day to day, the average daily attendance was approximately 120. See Annex for participants list.

After registration of the participants on the 27^th the Conference was called to order by Toushao Tony James of Aishalton. In true traditional fashion this was followed by a prayer by the Allelujah Group and cleansing by the Piaiman. The Toushao of the host village then welcomed the participants to his village. Mr. Maucir Baretto, Regional Chairman of Region 9 made brief remarks and officially declared the Conference open.

Mr. Eugene Isaacs, Chief of Chiefs of the Region 9 Toushaos/Amerindian Council did the official welcome. Delegates were then introduced by Regions followed by the introduction of special invitees and foreign delegates. The special invitees and foreign delegates gave brief overview of their organisations. The main address was then made by Vice-Chairman Vincent Henry and Toushao Tony James.

A general discussion followed, out of which came five main issues that affected everyone. There was a general consensus among people that these were things that they all faced individually and collectively no matter which region of Guyana they lived in. The main issues were Constitution Reform, Mining and Forestry, Protected Areas, Land Rights and Local Government. Concerning Constitution Reform, the majority stated that they were very pleased that they were represented on the Constitution Reform Commission by Ms La Rose, Programmes Administrator of the APA, and were very proud that she had been elected as the Vice- Chairperson of the Commission.

In his brief opening remarks, the Regional Chairman expressed his appreciation for being present at such an historic occasion. He welcomed everyone to his Region and urged them to make themselves at home in his community. He encouraged everyone present to feel proud of being Amerindians and to fight even harder for the recognition of their rights. He noted that culture is a vital part of everyone, and Amerindian culture must be saved at all costs. "Amerindians," he said, "are a peaceful people and will continue living that way." According to Mr. Baretto, because of the historic marginalisation of Amerindians, a lot of work and representation is needed at the regional and national levels. He told the leaders that while Amerindian lands are utilised for development projects, Amerindians have seen very few benefits from these activities. He felt that it was time that Amerindians benefited from the exploitation of the resources that are found on their lands; and that it was time that Amerindians became involved in decisions that impact upon their lives, at the local, regional, national and international levels.

The Chief of Chiefs of the Region 9 Toushaos/Amerindian Council, Eugene Isaacs, expressed his delight at being the one to welcome the delegates to the conference and emphasised the importance of the success of the gathering. He pointed out that such gatherings could be used in the future to publicise the problems faced by Amerindians and to strengthen unity among the Amerindian peoples of Guyana. He noted that Amerindians need not get caught in the middle of any conflict such as the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy; that we have the right to live and prosper where we are and must always stand united in defense of the rights of our people. Mr. Isaacs contended that the reason for being in Zeriwa was not to attack the government but to fight for the rights of our people. He urged people to speak freely; and to be proud of our way of life. He reminded the gathering that the land situation is serious and that Amerindians must fight for the recognition of the right to own what we know is ours. He encouraged participants to address all issues that are affecting them over the next few days so that they could develop positive solutions to the problems facing the communities.

Mr. Henry expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to make an address at such an important event. He went on to say that as the laws of our country are being reformed, he was happy that Amerindian rights are being discussed in the context of the reform of the Constitution. He advised the gathering and the various organisations of indigenous peoples to look out for each other. He told the people that there is urgent need to safeguard the interests of present and future generations of Amerindians. The Vice-chairman encouraged the conference to work towards a common goal and to continue the struggle for the full recognition of our rights and noted that Amerindians have a lot of power. "Let us be proud of ourselves and never be ashamed," he encouraged the delegates.

Toushao Tony James of Aishalton encouraged the delegates to put aside all their political differences and to unite as Amerindians over the next three days,. He advised the leaders that they have a responsibility to focus specifically on the well-being of their people and that such a position must be free of any political interests or gains. He felt that this conference was the ideal forum where all problems could be discussed. He encouraged everyone to discuss the issues affecting them, and come up with strong solutions for these problems.

Toushao James noted that one of the main issues that needed addressing was the land rights situation. He argued that the government was not seriously addressing this question, and that economic activities are taking place on Amerindian lands at the expense of Amerindians; and, that multinational and local mining and logging companies are destroying the lands that Amerindians depend on for our survival. "We live off the land and if we destroy it, we put our lives at risk", said Toushao James. He warned his fellow leaders that money will run out, but the lands will always be there and that they all need to take care of the land to ensure that future generations live in a safe environment. "We are not opposing development but it must not take place at the expense of Amerindian lands," he stated.

Toushao James went on to advise that injustice must be dealt with in order to protect our people. He said that the Toushaos of the Upper Mazaruni have moved to seek the protection of the courts with their land rights problem and Amerindians must take example from them. He encouraged the gathering, "Our children’s future depends on whatever decisions we make, so let us unite and put our heads together and face the right direction."

At the request of some of the participants the Statement of the Toushaos and Amerindian Organisations to the Constitution Reform Commission was explained; some of the highlights follow.

The Statement of the Toushaos and Amerindian Organisations to the Constitution Reform Commission recommended that the reformed Constitution include a Transitional Article on Establishment of a Land Claims Settlement Procedure. This proposal is recommending the establishment of a land claims settlement procedure to deal with all outstanding Amerindian land claims. Through this procedure Amerindians and the government would be able to sit and discuss the land question and come to agreements that they both can be happy about as to who owns what lands and who has what rights to those lands. This type of procedure was first instituted in Canada in 1973 where negotiated agreements were signed between the First Nations Peoples (Indian tribes) and the Canadian Government that were intended to settle the land issue once and for all. What is thus being recommended is that the new constitution establish a procedure that allows the government and Amerindians to negotiate and settle all land claims and that these claims should be settled within a certain time.

Presently, Amerindians have title to only around 6,000 square miles of land. An attempt was made to deal with the Amerindian land issues through the Amerindian Lands Commission of 1969, which recommended that Amerindians get title to around 24,000 square miles. However, the recommendation of the Lands Commission have not been fully implemented and therefore it cannot be considerd as a successful attempt to deal with the issue.

This article is recommending that Amerindians have more authority within their lands; that the elected village councils should be the ones to make decisions on behalf of the villages. Authorities get very nervous when they hear of provisions such as this. They feel that the Amerindians are recommending that there be a state within a state, but this is not true. The article is saying that in present laws, the Amerindian Act in particular, Toushaos and their Councils have very limited decision making powers and that this must be changed so that they have more control over the affairs of the communities without interference from central and regional government.

This article is seeking to put the right to participate in decisions that may affect Amerindian communities such as development projects, the granting of concessions to mining and timber companies or changing the Amerindian Act, in the Constitution. Another aspect of the recommendation is that two seats in Parliament be reserved for Amerindians, and that the representatives in this position being independent of political parties. Columbia and New Zealand have adopted similar rules on this issue.

Another recommendation is that Amerindians directly elect the Minister of Amerindian Affairs. In the event that this recommendation fails to win the approval of the Commission, then Amerindians must have the right to say yes or no to the government appointed Minister.

This article basically says the constitution must guarantee and protect Amerindian culture in all its different forms. Cultural integrity is all about keeping Amerindian culture together. Culture in this sense would involve hunting, fishing, languages, dances, songs, and Amerindians’ relationship with our lands.

This recommendation is saying that Amerindian children must have the same right to education as the children who live on the coast; that they should have the same access to secondary schools and to the university; that they should have the same standard of teachers as there are on the coast; that they should have the same amount of equipment and supplies as on the coast; and that there should be no difference in the level of education on the coast and in the interior. The article further recommends that education include Amerindian culture, and that teaching is done in both an indigenous language and in English. This is what is meant by bilingual and bicultural education. Language is a very important part of who you are.

This article recommends that Amerindians have control over the development process as it affects their communities. Amerindians must decide what development means and must have the authority to decide on and implement development programmes in accordance with Amerindian cultures. This article is also saying that Amerindians must have the right to say no to development activities that they do not want. For instance, mining is described as development, but this may involve pollution or restrictions on Amerindian rights. Is polluting a river and denying a community pure water for domestic and transportation purposes development?

While this article is not opposed to NDC’s (Neighbourhood Democratic Councils) and CDC’s (Community Development Councils), it is saying that Amerindians prefer the traditional way of governance under the Captain and village council system and that these Councils should have powers to allow them to govern efficiently. In some cases the NDC’s and CDC’s have taken over the power of the village councils and villages have been told that they cannot have a Toushao or a council anymore. Amerindians are saying that they prefer the old system and that this system must be strengthened.

Mr. Vivian Fredricks (representing the Minster of Amerindian Affairs) believed that if Amerindians are given the right to elect their own Minister, the many political factions in the communities must be taken into consideration; that the decision to elect the Minister must be collective or unanimous.

Mr. Eugene Isaacs (Region 9) contended that factions within a village are brought about by the different political parties; that we as Amerindians must put aside political differences and vote on our collective interest.

Mr. Fergus Mackay explained that the constitution defines broad principles; and that there are practical problems that will surface which the constitution cannot account for.

Toushao William Andries (Region 9) explained that if Amerindians are given the right to elect a representative, there is no one to blame but Amerindians themselves if that individual does not make full representation.

Mr. Harold D’Aguiar (Region 9) felt that not everything in the document would be enshrined in the constitution; that there is no representative body in the National Assembly to advocate the issues in the document. He contended that as Amerindians do not have a constituency in the National Assembly, Amerindians are going to depend on a political party to advocate their position. He questioned whether this was given deep thought and who Amerindians are aligning themselves with to advocate their position.

Toushao William Andries responded to Mr. D’Aguiar’s question by stating that Amerindians aligning themselves to a political party was not the best way to gain support for the document. He said that the best way was for the different political party followings to go directly to their parties that have a seat in parliament and hold regular discussions with them with the intent of lobbying for support for the document. He said that for a number of years, different politicians have claimed to be the champions of the Amerindian cause, and therefore a request for support will allow them to reveal their true interest in the Amerindian cause.

Mr.Harold D’Aguiar proposed that during the conference, a contingency plan should be considered should a party not support the Amerindian people. He mooted the formation of a stronger united Amerindian council or some such body to forward the proposals with more strength, force and togetherness.

Toushao David Newsum (Region 1) said that the process of lobbying support had begun where some Toushaos have been meeting with different political parties. He said however that this was just the beginning and every Amerindian must play a role to promote stronger support if strides are to be made.

Mr. Eugene Isaacs encouraged every one to sign the statement of support endorsing the Statement of the Toushaos and Amerindian Organisations before the end of the four days of the conference.

The Toushaos made a call for Amerindian land titles to include all their ancestral lands. They claimed that the government has failed to seriously address this important issue even though there have been repeated calls to do so. It was pointed out that some villages are without Toushaos and these communities are suffering because they are not being properly represented. They complained that mining and logging are having serious adverse effects on the communities such as environmental and social problems. They stated that water pollution is a great concern to some communities as they cannot use water for domestic purposes anymore; fishing and hunting grounds are destroyed making it harder to find food for the family; and companies exploit the people’s labour. Another concern to these communities is the intrusion by non-Amerindians into the communities without the permission of the council. Most of these intruders do not abide by the communities’ regulations. Some of them bring narcotic drugs that are then sold to the young people.

For many years we have been requesting for land title but nothing is done as yet. Another problem is the water pollution caused by a mining operation about 15 miles upriver form in my village. Miners are also entering the village without notifying the village council. Some of them tell me that as a Captain I cannot do anything.

Government is not paying any interest in my community, the situation in the village is getting worse, cannot back government anymore. Private companies ignore the welfare of the community and underpay the people.

The Toushao has sold out the village to a private company and illegal lumbering is rampant in the area.

Some non-Amerindians were accepted with their Amerindian wives. Others came without asking for permission to live and started putting up houses. The issue was bought to the attention of the Amerindian Affairs Minister but nothing was done. Another problem is that these people sell Marijuana in the village and a lot of young people end up in trouble. This clearly shows that the Amerindian people are not being truly represented by the government.

On behalf of my village I call on the Government to address all Amerindian land issues throughout Guyana. Amerindian public servants who contribute to the Dependent Pension Fund are not benefiting from it. Amerindian political figures are going about telling people that they should not support the APA. They are accusing the organization of fooling and misleading the people. We know that this is not true. We must start formulating genuine rules to govern our communities. A special funding agency that was established focuses only on selected regions. This institution was set up to fund Amerindian communities.

We need our land issue resolved as soon as possible. Foreign companies come into our lands looking for lumber and minerals and destroy it. They exploit the peoples labour. The government is not heeding to the call for urgent repairs to the school building. We continue asking and they continue promising but nothing has been done.

I wish that our land rights be honoured so that the community can make full use of land.

My community comprises of a population of over 500 people. The village does not have land title or Toushao. We have been continuously requesting a Toushao but our call is falling on deaf ears. The village is governed by a CDC. The chairman is carrying out what he was mandated to do. He utilizes anything that comes in from the RDC personally. We need representation on this matter.

The village is situated in the middle of big mining area. Captain cannot read English and advantage is taken of this by a mining company that got him to sign an agreement at the office of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission to allow mining on community land. He signed the agreement without understanding what it says. Mining is taking place in the village and is causing severe water pollution.

The community is surrounded by three logging concessions. Our village does not have land title and these companies are exploiting our forest. What will be left for my grand children?

There are two logging companies and individuals with power saws in our area cutting logs. We reject the little piece of land intended for demarcation for the village. Our population is increasing and soon we need more land.

The community is not satisfied with the area that was demarcated for his community. He needs more land for his people. The task force did the demarcation, but we do not agree with it.

The village has no land title or Toushao and is directed by the NDC. Villagers complain that this council does not take interest in the community’s welfare. Villagers now have to apply for plots of land for housing and gardening. The Barama logging company has occupied the vast majority of their land and residents are scared to argue for their rights. The government refuses to listen to the people.

The Toushaos of Region 2 claimed that they are not satisfied with the demarcation process by the government, claiming that government is deliberately refusing to settle their land issues. They expressed concern over the large areas of their land that are being destroyed by logging companies. This leads to the destruction of roads, exploitation of the people, and a decline of game to hunt. The Toushaos are not happy with the change in status of one village into an NDC. They argued that the village would not be able to enjoy the rights of Amerindians. They felt that the stipend that Toushaos receive is too small. With the high costs of living a Toushao cannot upkeep his family.

In a very short statement Toushao Clive Patterson of Santa Aratak, the only Toushao in Region 3 stated that he was recently elected and in his short term he noticed that the government was not doing enough for the Amerindians.

Toushao Bill Clinton of St. Francis Mission, the only Amerindian community in his region spoke of non-Amerindians going into his community and taking advantage of residents, especially the females, and sometimes even the leaders. He spoke about some members who left the village years ago who are returning to live and engage in logging but who are not heeding the regulations of the community.

Toushao Joseph Peneux of Orealla/Siparuta is also the only Toushao in his Region. He informed the gathering that his community was the first Amerindian community to be demarcated and engaged in logging as a means of income. Government has leased out lands to companies that should have been reserved for the community, he claimed. The Toushao stressed that his community has to find a way of income. According to Toushao Peneux, the government has not been supportive in the development of the community.

The Toushaos gave a detailed account of their predicament dating back to before the independence of the country. The Region is rich in mineral resources. This has led to a history of suffering at the hands of outsiders seeking riches in our lands, said the captains. Their reservation was de-reserved to facilitate easier access to mining locations. In the 1969 Amerindian Lands Commission, 1500 sq. miles of titled land was recommended. In 1976 the government refused to give them title claiming that these communities will have to relocate in order to make way for a hydro-project that would have flooded the area but was later aborted. These communities eventually received titles in 1991. The description in the titles never reflected the boundaries of their lands. Several vain attempts have been made to reclaim these lands.

Concessions have been granted to companies on these very lands without the consent of the people or even notifying them. Today, due to pollution of rivers by small-scale mining, communities are experiencing all kind of strange sicknesses. The Toushaos complained that the Mazaruni River is not fit for domestic use and fishing grounds are disrupted and even destroyed by missile drdges. In seeking recognition and protection for their lands, they held discussions at the village, district, and regional level and with other interest groups. It was then decided that the only alternative left to them was through the legal system. After legal action was taken, the Toushaos claimed that false information was being fed to other communities about them and that they were threatened to be stripped of their position as Toushaos. They concluded by calling for the recognition of Alleluia church.

The Region 8 Toushaos said they are united in their struggle to own what is rightfully theirs. They have not agreed to the demarcation process because the lands that are being given to them do not include all their ancestral lands. They called for strong representation against mining. The polluted rivers are causing serious health hazards and killing the fish, one of the main sources of food, the Region 8 leaders said. Some of the communities that do not have titles are left to the mercy of the miners who come and dig up their lands. With them the miners bring drugs and alcohol that the young people fall easy prey to. They concluded by reiterating their stand to not agreeing to demarcation until they are given what is rightfully theirs.

The Toushaos of the South Savanahas have expressed great dissatisfaction at the way the government is handling the land issue and rejected the demarcation process. Authorities of the day are telling us that titles (presidential grants) given to us previously are not valid and the one they are giving us is more valid (land certificate). This is causing confusion among villages. They accused the government of targeting Toushaos who are being forced to accept these certificates without notification or consultation with the village councils and the village. They claimed that the government has gone so far as to offer Toushaos fifteen sheep if they accepted titles. They encourage every one to stand united in whatever position they may take. The Toushaos questioned the issuing of lands at Lethem claiming that the lands selection committee in the region have not been functioning over a year. They gave an example where there is community with approximately two hundred and fifty villagers without a title but right alongside there is a thirteen sq. mile plot of land owned by one individual.

One major concern to them is that concessions are being granted on their ancestral lands, in particular to Vannessa Ventures Ltd., a Canadian company. They are afraid that their communities will be affected the same way as those in other mining regions. They are concerned about such issues as the use of poisonous chemicals and the danger that mining would pose to the environment and the lack of information about the activities of these companies. The leaders of the Region 9 villages contended that they are not opposed to development but it must not take place at the cost of Amerindians and their lands. They believed that situations only become difficult when they are allowed to get out of control.

They are worried about villages that are proposed for NDC’s. According to them the proposed villages were never consulted or informed about these proposals. Deep down in the South the Wai Wais are worried by the kind of people that go there to extract things from the environment. They have also sought assistance from the government to build a trail to the nearest Wapisiana community. Other issues that need addressing are the continuing rustling of cattle, the exploitation of child labour by non-Amerindians and the funding of projects, where the bulk of the funds are spent on consultants. The Toushaos questioned the issuing of projects that are mostly awarded to non- Amerindians. They then called for strong recommendations and resolutions at the end of the gathering.

They questioned the government commitment to fully address Amerindian issues. Requests for titles have up to now been ignored. They felt that all royalties from logs that are extracted in the area should stay with the communities and not go to the government. They encouraged leaders not to feel defeated but instead be optimistic. Pledging their support in the struggle for the recognition of their rights, the Region 10 leaders were of the opinion that among the Amerindians, there are brothers and sisters who can make full representation on behalf of the people.

He said that he was a lawyer and works with the Indian Law Resource Center (ILRC). He runs a programme that deals with indigenous issues in South and Central America. He told the gathering that indigenous problems and issues are very similar throughout the Americas. He informed the leaders that the ILRC is an advocacy, non-profit organization. The organization deals with Indigenous human rights and Indian Law, Mr. Wiggins stated. Constitutions were developed by non-indigenous people and imposed on the first people of the land. We try to develop some kind of education process from that point of view, contended the lawyer.

The ILRC first worked at the domestic level but soon realized governments paint a different picture about Indigenous peoples at the international level. The organization then attempted to educate international bodies on indigenous issues. Presently the ILRC has attained consultative status with the UN. The organization does not have that relationship with the OAS; however, the ILRC has assisted in the drafting of a proposed OAS declaration on Indigenous peoples’ rights and has brought cases to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to complain about violation of Indigenous rights. He encouraged Amerindians to get involved in these processes, telling them there were lots of opportunities to meet interesting people, learn about issues of other indigenous peoples and get advice from them on how to deal with your problems. One of the processes the organization is involved in is educating governments but made it a policy never to accept funding from governments including the World Bank, IDB, EU, etc.

The government has experts to advice them on issues but the indigenous peoples are now having their experts also, contended Mr. Wiggins. He cautioned, that Amerindians must be careful in what they do and educate themselves for continued survival or they may end up being as destructive to the environment and themselves as the outsiders, jeopardizing the future generations. In conclusion he encouraged everyone to continue to fight for the right to be recognized, pointing out also that there are now mechanisms nationally and internationally to fight our cases.

Not satisfied with demarcation. Only one-third of what belongs to them was given to them. Two logging concessions are operating in the area and are exploiting the forest and the people’s labour. They are preventing and harassing the people from going to their farms. They are using the road and destroying it.

Lumbering is destroying our forest. Government has failed to recognize our rights to our lands. No demarcation has yet been done.

Lumber has been exhausted off the land and villagers need land to work on.

The village will be changed into NDC. Villagers not happy with this. Toushao stipend not good enough. They see this as an insult to the Toushaos! A salary is recommended for the Toushaos. Their land was taken away.

Our region is known for its mineral resources. Throughout history we have suffered at the hands of porknockers looking for gold and diamonds. Our reservation was de-reserved and opened to mining in 1959 and again in 1977. We were even threatened with relocation in order to make way for a hydro-electric dam project. Some Amerindians were relocated. In the Amerindian Lands Commission Report 1500 sq. miles was recommended for the Upper Mazaruni communities. This was not recognized since the government had the intention of building a dam. The communities were told that they would have to move and before the place is flooded and that all mineral resources must be exploited. Promises were made to these communities in the form of development. When we eventually received titles the description did not fit the description of our land. We thought that we could not continue in this manner so we formed a district council through which we can advocate our position in a more organized and united way.

Concessions were given out to mining companies for reconnaissance purposes without our prior knowledge in our titled area. Gaining an audience with the president was very

difficult. We were asked by the president to produce a development plan as to how we are going to utilize our land. We were able get support to do a mapping project in which our people were trained to produce resource maps, governmental agencies did not want to recognize the project. Mining is polluting our rivers, people were experiencing a lot of sicknesses. The water was not fit for domestic use. Fishing grounds have been disrupted and destroyed. They go to destroy our land, not caring what they do us. For a long time we have been asking for full title to all our lands.

We ask for support in seeking for the recognition of our land rights in Guyana. We have been addressing this issue at many levels; at the council level, the village level, the district level, the regional level, and at national level. We have been requesting all along but the government continues to ignore us. Let us not give up but build courage and unity. In trying to seek recognition and protection of our land rights, we have taken legal action. After deep consideration, consultation and seeing that our words had no weight at all with the people in Georgetown, we decided that the only alternative left to us to secure our lands was through legal action. Because of the stand we have taken there are some people from political parties that are trying to remove us as Toushaos.

We have rejected the demarcation programme because the government is not recognizing our lands. We are not satisfied with the description for demarcation. Some people are spreading false information saying that the Mazaruni Toushaos are changing their minds about our stand in the courts. I can tell you that this is not true and that we know who is saying these lies.

Support Amerindian land rights, Amerindian human rights, children rights, rights to mineral rights. All Amerindian rights should be put in the constitution. The Aleluia Church be recognized.

In our area we were being told that we will be restricted from hunting and fishing because the area is being transformed to a protected area, Mr. Melville said. We were told that there are a lot to benefits that the community of Chenapau can gain from the national park since there are plans for eco-tourism in the park. Some of the benefits are employment as cooks, boat captains, tour guides, and park wardens, etc. The Toushao of Chenapou asked where does his community’s culture and rights fit in to all this. He added that the area is their traditional hunting, fishing and farming grounds and also where the community does a bit small-scale mining. It was said that the park would be zoned off in three phases with different degrees of restriction. We are a free people contended the Region 8 leader, the lands belong to us, our ancestors lived there and we are now living there. They agreed that everyone would have to work together if there is to be any progress in development but soon there were park wardens telling us we could not use the area any more. According to Toushao Melville, their livelihood were suddenly taken away them. He was of the opinion that the government was missing the point that Amerindians are a unique people with a unique culture who share a special relationship with the land upon which they rely for continued survival. The Toushao concluded by expressing concern as to what is next in store for them.

The deep-South Toushaos are asking for communal land which was described by our forefathers. On these very lands a concession has been signed that we don’t know about. We will all be affected by this mining. We are not against development but it must not take place at our expense. We should have the right to say yes or no to any activity that takes place in or around our lands. In our hunting grounds mining has done a lot of damage. They do not put back the earth they dig up. They will not tell you about any poisonous chemicals they will use. These are things that will happen to our communities if we allow them to happen.

Villages have been proposed for NDC’s but these villages have never been consulted nor notified. We have been existing peacefully with our village councils. We don’t need another body over us. Instead they should recognize our system of government and help strengthen it.

The Wai Wais are worried about the kind of people going into their area, especially groups that go in there to extract things from the environment. They are asking that their permission must be sought before any one enters their village. We the communities must be the one to say who must come into our communities. The Wai Wais are interested in making a trail from their village to the Wapishana communities. They have sought the assistance of the government but if there is no help they are still going ahead with the help of their Wapishana brothers.

He was told that by accepting the land title certificate he would create history by shaking the President’s hand. However, he did not accept the offer. He was asked at one time to travel but refused since he was not given prior notice. He complained that there are a lot of Brazilian cattle rustlers who invade our area. One great concern to him was the exploitation of his young people by non-Amerindians and called for the conference to address this issue and at the end to take a unified position on all the issues affecting Amerindians.

The government is not doing anything that they have promised. Toushaos that stand up for what they believe in are labeled as trouble-makers. The more they attack the more united we will stand. We had agreed to demarcation but since they did their own things we decided that we could not accept it. The lands that were given to us in my area are always flooded during the rainy season. This definitely is not suited for agricultural purposes. We definitely need more land where we can do farming. Funding is coming from outside but most is spent on consultants. Projects can be completed by the people, for far less than when outsiders are contracted to do the jobs.

He raised the question whether we will be driven out to another planet. From what he was hearing our future looks grim. He noted that it sounds like all the regions are having the same problems. He questioned whether we will be exterminated by some of our own people. He noted that the battle is on to save our people and future generations. He observed that we have capable people who are capable of making full representation on the Amerindians’ behalf. Outsiders are penetrating our communities and we cannot allow them to take over. He said that his community does not have a land title, though they have repeatedly requested for one. Outsiders are given priority over the Amerindians by the government.

The villagers felt that all royalties should be paid to the village and not to the government when logs are extracted in the area. The regional administration is of little help. We try to be independent.

The presentation began with a brief history of the Maori people of New Zealand and their land situation. Their plight started some one hundred and fifty years ago when the British first arrived in New Zealand. Though a treaty was signed between the Maori people and the British government that should have been the basis of their relationship, the Indigenous peoples of New Zealand lost almost all their lands. However, there has been a change with regards to land rights, over the last thirty years some of those lost lands were retrieved and the reclamation of more of these lands looks promising. This change only came after Maori people began to get organized and to actively defend their rights in the courts and through other means.

The leaders were informed that the presentation was to clearly explain the difference between the three titles or documents concerning land that were issued to some Amerindian communities. These titles and other documents are: 1); those that were issued under the Amerindian Act; 2) those that were issued under Section 3 of the State Lands Act; and 3) the recent certificate of title issued under Section 5 of the Lands and Surveys Act.

The Toushaos were then briefed on the laws of Guyana concerning Amerindians starting with the 1902 Aboriginal Indians Protection Ordinance. This was replaced in1910 by the Aboriginal Indians Ordinance. Both of these laws dealt explicitly with protection of the Amerindians. By the time this law was changed in 1951 to the Amerindian Ordinance, a number of reservations and village councils were established. Part of the independence agreement in 1966 was to deal with the Amerindian lands issue. This led to the establishment of the Amerindian Lands Commission in 1967, which submitted its report two years later in 1969. The report noted that Amerindians had identified 43,000 sq. miles as their own, but that only 24,000 sq. miles were recommended for title. This area was divided between 128 Amerindian communities by the Commissioners. In 1976, the Amerindian Act was amended and titles were granted to 64 communities covering an area of 4500 sq. miles. Titles were issued to ten communities amounting 1500 sq. miles in 1991 under Section 3 of the State Lands Act. The latest documents were issued under Section 5 of the Lands and Surveys Act and are not titles to land but rather are certificates that prove that you have a title registered at the Department of Lands and Surveys.

These titles were issued under section 20A(1) of the Amerindian Act. The titles exclude rivers and all lands 66 feet inland from the mean low water mark, minerals and mining rights, airstrips and future airstrips, and buildings or installations owned by the government before1976. The title can be taken away or modified in public interest if the minister so decides but it is entitled to compensation. This applies to no one else in Guyana and, therefore, discriminates against Amerindians. Other conditions included taking away lands ten miles from an international border if needed for defense, public safety, or public interest. Lands cannot be sold without the written permission of the Minister and titles can be revoked if the minister decides that two or more members of the community have been disloyal or have bad feelings towards the state. He added that the minister could change or suspend land titles by issuing a simple order. In Section 3(1), the minister can add, delete or change the boundaries of villages listed in the Act or make any order needed for transferring community lands after removing or changing boundaries as listed in the schedule. It continues that if a village is removed from the schedule it becomes the property of the local governmental council.

The titles granted in 1991 were issued under Section 3 of the State Lands Act. In this Section, it was noted that the President has the authority to grant lands to people, individuals and groups; and that these lands are given absolutely and forever with what ever conditions the President sees fit to put on these lands. An important point to note, was that these lands are given absolutely and forever. The only condition on these titles is that there are no mineral rights. Also, the title includes the entire tract of state land as described and the only way a title can be revoked is if the conditions are violated.

The titles issued in 1998 are not titles but certificate of titles. It basically says that there is a title or a presidential grant that is registered at the Department of lands and Surveys.

The participants divided into four groups where they discussed the following:

1. Amerindian Land Rights
2. Mining and Forestry in indigenous lands
3. Local government as it relates to Amerindians
4. NPAS (Protected Areas Project) and Amerindians

1. The legal recognition of our lands does not give us right to our lands but is based on the discretion of the state and an unknown minister and the President as described in the Amerindian Act and the State lands Act.
2. There are three titles issued but no legal guarantees are in the constitution to support them. Laws that are used to support them are not substantial, leaving us exposed to the mercy of those in power.
3. Some communities that were recommended for legal recognition are still waiting to be recognized. There are others that were not recommended but still need to be recognized.
4. There is encroachment on our lands and exploitation of our resources from which we do not benefit. Our environment is destroyed where our waters are polluted which in turn affects animals. In the process our people are exploited and oppressed. Our men work for wages that do not compensate them for the work they do. There is no compensation for people who are injured at work places. Our women are molested and sometimes even our men. Even our children are exploited through child labour. This results in poverty for our people, who were rich enough to entertain the lost arrivals hundreds of years ago.

These are some reasons why we see it fit for the government to carry out the following:

1. Communities without titles must be given titles based on their historical occupation and use.
2. All existing areas occupied by Amerindians must be legally recognized and be consistent with international legal standards.
3. Rights to full ownership and control over all resources found on and above the surface of the earth, from the top of the sky to the center of the earth.
4. A lands claim settlement procedure must be set up in which Amerindians must fully participate and consent.
5. All areas that are proposed for the national protected areas system must be suspended until all Amerindian land rights are settled.
6. We call on international organizations to recognize as illegal all protected areas that include Amerindian territories.
7. We reject the present demarcation process. We find this process very humiliating, insulting, discriminatory and in violation of our human rights. Any demarcation process must have over 90% support of Amerindians and must allow for Amerindians to have legal representation. We must reserve the right to change or challenge the demarcation should we feel that it does not represent the interests of the people. We must be allowed to demarcate our territories for it is only us that knows our territories. We have resource personnel to embark on these exercises. We can acquire funding to execute this exercise to its conclusion in collaboration with the government.
8. We call on the government to desist from pressuring our communities into accepting demarcation and titles that they are not satisfied with.
9. We call on the government to immediately correct the situation of the Amerindians in Port Kaituma who are suffering from the effects of the Barama company’s operations.
10. We acknowledge that the APA has been truly representing us at both national and international forums and as such we call on the government to recognize the organization as a true voice of the Amerindian people.
11. We give our full support to the statement made by the Toushaos and Amerindian organizations to the Constitution Reform Commission.

Sidney Allicock (Region 9) spoke about the condition of Guyana’s independence that all Amerindian land issues in Guyana be addressed. He thought that this argument should be the basis our claims. According to Mr. Allicock, it is not a case of wanting land but a case of knowing what land is ours. If the authorities had listened to us, he said, we would have properly demarcated our lands and this big problem would not have been affecting us any more. He called for the need to be sensible enough, honest enough and look though our Amerindian eyes and see the true purpose of what we are working for. His advice was not to look at it through politics but through our point of view.

Toushao Joseph Penuex (Region 6) called for language in the recommendations to include not only a suspension of the demarcation but for an annulment of those communities that have been demarcated and are not satisfied. Some communities accepted demarcation but when looking at the recommendation in the Amerindian Lands Commission report they decided to refuse the process as they realized they were not getting all that was recommended. He thought it best to have Amerindians trained to do the demarcation.

Toushao John Atkinson (Region 1) expressed concern at the patches of state land between Amerindian lands claiming that it can be dangerous if outsiders occupy these lands. He asked the leaders to demand that we own the lands communally. He reiterated the leaders’ claim for more lands by saying that there is need to secure the lives of future generations. He called for meaningful discussion on the land situation and only then could demarcation proceed.

Toushao Tony James (Region 9) urged that something coming out of the Independence Agreement be included in this report. He stated that the present demarcation is leaving out large chunks of ancestral lands resulting in their refusal of the process. According to Toushao James, by the time they look at extensions, all the lands will be granted to logging and mining companies who would ruin the forests and the environment. He claimed to be one the leaders that are talking about owning their lands communally and they are basing this on the recommendations made by the old Toushaos of the sixties. He called for the implementing of a land claims procedure with a specific time frame through which all land claims can be settled and voiced his support for the legal recognition of the Wai Wai and the Baramita communities.

Chief of Chiefs Eugene Isaacs (Region 9) requested that the report include language saying that there should not be any granting of concessions until all Amerindian land problems are settled.

Toushao Moses David (Region 8) pointed out that companies are taking away Amerindian lands, destroying them and leaving us to suffer. These very lands will have to support our children and we need to safeguard it for them, emphasized Mr. David

Toushao Jerry Brescenio (Region 1) called for the right to control the rivers, alleging that illegal activities often takes place on them where the village has no control.

Toushao John Jacobus (Region 2) spoke about the company that was contracted to demarcate lands in Region 9, who used technicians instead of surveyors to do the demarcation and equipment that was required to be used was never used.

Toushao Lawrence Anselmo (Region 7) believed that Amerindians had their own people trained who would do the demarcation. The government must recognize these people, he asserted.

1. Mining can create many problems, e.g. health hazards. Water is polluted to the extent that it cannot be used for human consumption and this can result in sicknesses, birth defects and even death. Pits that are left behind are breeding places for the malaria mosquitoes that are one of the top 10 killers in the world.
2. Mining can result in social problems also. A father may be gone for days leaving the family to fend for themselves or may not even return. Broken homes arise from these things. In mining areas there is a high rate of crime, violence, rape robbery, etc. in these areas we find a high rate of teenage pregnancy. This is a plague in our communities. Today, most of the miners are equipped with sophisticated weapons, most of them are illegal. Planting of marijuana is common in these areas.
3. Sophisticated equipment are causing great damage to the environment.
4. This working group fully supports the Toushaos statement to the CRC.
5. We thought that communities should be educated and be made aware of the consequences that come with mining. If we don’t educate ourselves we will be encouraging these terrible things to continue.
6. Whatever development activities we are involved in must be done in a sustainable way.
7. We must draft out rules and regulations relating to mining and implement them. This could foster our ownership of our lands. We call on the GGMC to enforce the mining laws and regulations.
8. Forests are the lungs of the world. The rivers are the blood. If there is no forest, there is no life. If we are going to exploit the forest we will not have good air to breathe. Destroying the forest and the environment is a hazard also. Deforestation can lead to environmental disasters.
9. There should be a system in place for logging where selective logging can be properly monitored in the forest.
10. Regeneration or planting of forest must be implemented.
11. Communities should be educated on how to manage forestry.
12. Respecting of land rights by the government is essential to protecting the forest.
13. Environmental assessments should be done on areas that are destroyed.
14. Compensation should be made in areas that have been exploited.
15. We recognize that the APA is the best contact both at national and international level.

Toushao Tony James (Region 9) said that all these terrible things are happening because Amerindians have sat down easy and quiet and allowed these things to happen. He told the leaders that they should strongly demand that the government stop issuing mining and logging concessions and address their land issues and until such time no concession must be granted.

Virgil Ferreira (Region 1) advised that if GGMC does not impose their laws, communities should seek legal advice then go to court. Communities should also be involved in planting of trees.

Shirley Melville (Region 9) said that Amerindians must be a little more conscious of the saplings around a tree before they cut. Sophisticated machinery does not take into consideration the environment when logging, she stated. In relation to mining, Mrs. Melville thought there should be periodical checks on the mercury level in mining areas.

Toushao Tony James, on the statement about marijuana, said that it should include all illegal drugs. The deep south leader spoke about researches that are done in Amerindian area and questioned how much information is returned to the communities, especially contamination of water. We should create our own research team because a lot of information is withheld from us, informed Toushao James.

Mr. Jimmy James (Region 8) cautioned that small-scale mining is the only form of income to communities where transportation is difficult and banning mining will only add to the suffering of these communities. He believed that the problem arises when there is medium and large-scale mining.

Mr. Fergus Mackay (International Invitee) informed the gathering that there was mercury contamination testing done in the Madhia area where it was found that the level of contamination was much higher than the standard safe limit for the human health. In 1996, he continued, researchers went into the Upper Mazaruni testing the water. No one knew what the team was testing for. No report has ever been released to the Upper Mazaruni communities. He added that the estimate of mercury dumping in the interior, especially in those mining areas is truly scary. Experts say that for every pound of gold produced, two pounds of mercury enters the environment, he told the leaders. They have calculated that over a five-year period tons of mercury have been released into the environment in Guyana. He emphasized that this is vital information that should return to the communities. When we talk about mining or logging or environmental issues you need to have access to information, he advised, telling them that it is their human right to be informed about activities affecting them.

Ms. Melinda Janki (Guyanese Lawyer) warned the delegates they must be wary of people who go into their villages asking questions and taking sample of things from the area. She advised that unless they send a report on their research, the Village Council should not allow them into the village. The lawyer called for the need of legislation that would recognize the right to this kind of information, especially in the Mining and Forestry Acts. The definition of Amerindian lands in the Amerindian Act is not quite right, she noted. She pointed out that before lands are granted there must be management plans in place and a lot of consultations. But the Minister can change those plans without consulting anybody and he doesn’t have to give a reason for it. She concluded by telling the people that this is something that should be given deep thought.

Toushao Joseph Penuex (Region 6) raised the question about compensation for damages done to villages, and who is going to assess these damages. He explained that his village has been involved in logging for years and expressed his concern when it comes to sustainable logging in his area, since most of the forest has already been destroyed. Logging is our only means of income if we stop we can’t send our children to school, he claimed. According to Toushao Peneux, the forestry commission has leased concessions adjacent to their lands and his community now has no lands for logging anymore.

Sidney Allicock (Region 9) cautioned that Amerindians must be careful with activities they are involved in when it comes to the environment. We would be the ones to suffer if it’s destroyed, he believed. He felt there is urgent need to educate all villages on these issues.

1. We must have the rights to our ancestral lands before talking about identifying any national protected area. The reason being that, if we don’t own these lands we would not be included in the decision making when protected areas are being proposed.
2. Educate the communities on NPAS. They must fully understand all implications before making any decision.
3. The communities must be involved in the decision making process with regards to identifying sites for these activities. Sacred and cultural sites must be respected. We must be involved in the management of these areas from the lowest to the highest level.
4. There must be tangible reasons why proposed areas should be protected. There must be enough information as to the resources that need protection before we give our consent to protected areas.
5. Financial benefit agreements must be well negotiated and defined in good faith by parties involved.
6. We must reserve the right to consult with our legal advisors, via the APA.
7. Intellectual property rights must be recognized and protected according to international standards.
8. We must be full participants in the development of the National Bio-diversity Action plan. We were made to understand that there is a draft for the NBAP and so far there is no Amerindian participation in that drafting.
9. We reserve the right to declare all our territories indigenous owned protected areas. We thought it best to develop our own protected areas so as to have full management and control over these areas rather than someone coming into your territory and telling you that this part of land will be a protected area.

Senor Bell (Region 8) complained that outsiders come into the villages with permission from the government and that the leaders of these communities cannot do anything about it. They don’t even try to inform the community about these visitors, he continued, researchers come, extract the flora and fauna, take them away for further research and never send a report, noted the Region 8 representative. Mr. Bell said the village council must be the one to grant permission to strangers who wish to enter the community.

Toushao Tony James (Region 9) raised the issue of the government’s refusal to recognize the APA and that it claimed that the association had no authority to speak on behalf of the people with the World Bank on NPAS. He urged that the in the statements and resolutions there should be something to the effect that the people are authorizing the APA to speak on their behalf in whatever dialogue they are having with the World Bank on NPAS.

Councilor Edgar Antonio (Region 1) believed that Amerindians have been protecting their areas from time immemorial. He argued that the Amerindians don’t need people telling them their areas need protection because they have been protecting eighty three thousand square miles and more long before the colonizers came.

After discussing role of the village council up to the regional level (RDC) we recommend these points:

1. The village council must manage their own affairs. There must be no interference from outside dictating village affairs.
2. Village councils must serve a five-year term. The present two-year term is too short for the council to make any impact on the community.
3. Village councils must be involved in decision making from the grass root level to the regional and national levels and even at the international level.
4. Regional officers, who run regional affairs, must be elected from the region and by the communities. We feel that the Regional Chairman should be elected by the communities and not by the political parties.
5. The group recommends that NDC’s not be introduced in Amerindian communities.
6. Captains and village councils can be removed by the village if the village sees that they are not doing what is expected of them. This must be done with full participation of the community.
7. We must have more female captains.
8. The village must have the right to accept or reject any person entering the village. If they are given permission from higher authority that permission must also say the final decision lies in the hand of the village council.
9. We recommend that the Captains’ stipend increase to a realistic value.
10. The Captains and the rural constables must have separate stipends. All captains must be sworn in as Justices of Peace according to the present Amerindian Act.
11. Train village councils of their functions and duties.
12. Train more local rural constables in addition the captain.
13. The present Amerindian Act is to be thrown away and Amerindians should write the next draft.
14. We want another lands commission to address all outstanding land issues.
15. The APA is the national representative of all Amerindians.
16. Those villages that have village councils that are not recognized must attain village status, and titles be granted to them.

Toushao Matheson Williams (Region 8) is of the view that the burden of a rural constable is too much work for an already overworked Toushao whose job it is to run the everyday affairs of the village. On the issue of a salary for the Toushaos, the Toushao felt that the village should not rely on the government for this would only increase their control over the village. The village instead should implement systems were they can raise funds to pay the Toushao, the Region 8 Toushao advised.

Toushao Yvonne Fredricks (Region 2) agreed that the village should raise revenue to pay their Toushaos. Systems must be put in place or the government will have control over the people, asserting that when one is free you can do what you like and live free.

Toushao Tony Melville (Region 8) stated that a National Toushaos’ Committee should be formed who would represent the interest of the Toushaos and important village matters.

Toushao Victor Pio (Region 8) reiterated that councils should really manage their own affairs. He also noted that the two years service by Toushaos is too short, explaining that in two years he or she and councilors can barely get moving with the activities they have planned for the village.

Toushao Joseph Penuex (Region 6) reminded the gathering that each community differs from each other. Some may live in communities with rich resources where they can afford to pay their Toushaos, some may live where they can barely feed themselves where they may do a little of fishing, hunting and farming that may just be enough income to live, he noted. He continued by stating that the mere fact that the village captain and councilors manage the village eases a lot of pressure on the government and that should be taken into account and they should be well compensated with a reasonable stipend.

Toushao Tony James (Region 9) pointed out that the recommendations made in the 1969 Amerindian Lands Commission report were not recognized by the authorities. This proved to be quite ineffective; what we should be asking for is the establishment of a land claims settlement procedure that will function in full partnership with the Amerindian people.

Toushao Anderson Hasting (Region 7) asked the question as to whom are we asking to train our leaders to effectively execute their duties. Captains have been asking the government for this training but to date it has failed to do so, the Toushao noted.

Toushao Tony James, in answer to Toushao Hasting he advised that they find their own people to train leaders. We are talking about building our own procedures through our own legal system, he continued, we should not allow ourselves to be trained one sided, we must be trained overall. We must not want to see things from only a political point of view; we must also see things through our own Amerindian eyes, the deputy Chief of Chief encouraged.

Ms. La Rose opened her presentation by explaining that the establishment of the Constitution Reform Commission is due to the need for reforming the Constitution, contending that this is a result of the period of unrest during the 1997 elections. She told the leaders that the commission consists of 20 members, ten of them being from the political parties and the other ten being from the civil society. According to Ms. La Rose the Commission had been carrying on public hearings all over the country from which they plan to generate recommendations that would assist in reforming the Constitution.

We are to first discuss the general issues, see what it involves, then look at the various recommendations coming out of the various communities that were presented orally, and also look at recommendations from a parliament select committee in 1997, declared the Commissioner.

She then said that the Commission would attempt to compile them into a report that will be submitted to the Parliamentary Select Committee dealing with the reform of the Constitution. This report will be submitted in two parts. After the Commissioners have looked at the recommendations, they will then look at the recommendations made by the community as a whole then decide what they would like to see in the Constitution coming out of the hearings. At the same time the report will also reflect the communities’ views that were not recommended by the Commission, explained Ms. LA Rose.

Ms. La Rose asserted that she is using the Toushaos and Amerindian Organizations statement that was submitted to the CRC as the foundation for her arguments. It is very hard being the only representative of the Amerindians and the Commissioners are unfamiliar with Amerindian issues. If we are to win support in the Commission we have to do a lot of educating, she pointed out.

The process involves your recommendations from which the Commissioners make further recommendations to the Parliamentary Select Committee. The recommendations will then be sent to and debated in parliament

The final decision on what will be included in the Constitution lies with the politicians sitting in parliament. This is where input from the communities will be vital, noted Mrs. La Rose. According to the Amerindian representative on the CRC, politicians went to Amerindians and made promises to help the indigenous peoples achieve their objectives in exchange for votes. Now it is time to go and ask in return for support in parliament. Ms. La Rose concluded by explaining that some of the aspects of the Constitution would not only be done in parliament but would have to go to referendum.

A statement titled National Endorsement of the Toushaos’ Statement to the CRC was signed by the Toushaos, village councilors and all participants. This statement was an endorsement of the Toushaos Statement made individually by all of the participants of the Conference. This was felt necessary as the Minister of Amerindian Affairs had been saying that the statement submitted to the CRC was only signed by a few Amerindians. It is true that only a few Amerindians signed the original statement, however, the people who signed were Toushaos chosen by all the Toushaos in their various regions to represent the regions and therefore, they represented all Toushaos.

Ms. Janki told the gathering that the extension to the KNP has been under discussion for some time. On the 9^th of March of this year the President signed an order under the KNP Act extending the boundaries of the park from the original size of 5 sq. miles to an area of 242 sq. miles. She questioned whether any consultation took place before this happened. She then showed the people with the aid of map the extension of the park.

In response to Ms. Janki, the Toushao from Chenapau claimed that it is the first time he is learning about the extension. The Toushao then showed and explained to the people the area they traditionally use and occupy. He emotionally told the people that he is hurt and angry by the way this was done. All our hunting and fishing grounds are now taken away from us. I think we Amerindian people are too much polite and these people are taking advantage of that, he argued. He thought that it was time we stand up in a serious manner.

Ms. La Rose told the gathering that in 1996 the World Bank held a consultative workshop where NPAS was discussed at the end of which the Toushaos returned with very little knowledge and information about NPAS. Three years later a government RRA team supported by the World Bank visited Chenapou, the closest community to the national park, to conduct an evaluation that should have laid the ground the groundwork for the extension of the KNP informed Ms. La Rose. It was decided between the government and the World Bank that the extension of the KNP was the first thing to do. In those discussions, participation of Chenapau was not considered. The community only learnt of the extension when the RRA team visited them. Only through request was the APA given information and learnt that an agreement was to be signed between the government and the World Bank. According to Ms. La Rose the organization immediately protested and explained to the World Bank how the agreement would impinge on the land rights of the community. The World Bank has a policy that before any project can be implemented all prior land claims by Amerindians must be settled. The claim by Chenapou is a prior land claim that has to be addressed. This, Ms. La Rose said is the heart of the issue

Ms. Janki explained the law that governs the extension, adding that these laws are very strict since all activities done in the area by Chenapau are now illegal, including even walking through the Park area. With the aid of a map Toushao Melville pointed out areas they used for hunting and fishing and discussed why these areas are fundamental to their continued survival.

Toushao Norma Thomas of Kamarang-Warawatta, (Region 7) said that women usually cry easy and get upset with things. When she sees a man, especially a Toushao, crying she knows that some thing is very wrong. She offers her support to the people of Chenapou and hoped that all Toushaos present would stand shoulder to shoulder with Toushao Melville and make sure that the government changes this terrible law that has so hurt the people of Chenapou.

Other Toushaos supported Toushao Thomas and said if this is how the government was going to treat Amerindians that they would not support it ever again. They also blamed the World Bank for the NPAS project which they believed was related to the Order extending Kaieteur National Park and the problems that Chenapou was experiencing.

The participants were given copies of the Plain English Guide to the Amerindian Act that was produced by the APA to help people understand what the Amerindian Act says.

The Amerindian Act is almost the same as the law written in 1902. The parliament has established a select committee to revise the Amerindian Act since 1993 and to date nothing has been done. Certain people say the Act is okay and all it needs is to change a few words. The participants were reminded that this is the most important law of Guyana that deals with Amerindians and Amerindian rights. It is a very good indication what the present and past governments think about Amerindians. The first thing the Act does is define who is an Amerindian and what is an Amerindian community. The question of who defines an Amerindian is a very important one. International human rights standards say that Amerindians have a right to define for themselves, who is an Amerindian, what is an Amerindian community and who have the right live in an Amerindian community. Allowing the government to define who is an Amerindian is the same giving the government the power to take away Amerindian rights. They could one day decide that you are no longer an Amerindian and therefore can take away your land and other rights that Amerindians have.

It was explained that the Minister has the power to alter the boundaries of a village, add or delete a village from the Schedule to the Act by issuing an order. Other important points were noted such as the registering of Amerindians and the conditions by which they have to live. Only registered Amerindians can live in an Amerindian village. Non-Amerindians are not allowed to enter an Amerindian village without the permission of the Chief officer who does not exist any more. The process of registration and the penalties for not following these regulations were also explianed. The chief officer can do literally anything with Amerindian property including taking it and selling it. He can represent Amerindians in court and recover property for them. He can file complaints on your behalf and act on your behalf. He can appoint and remove your captain who has the powers of a rural constable and justices of the peace.

The powers of the Minister to take Amerindian lands and to make regulations to relocate Amerindians were also explained, as were the powers and duties of Captains and Village Councils.

Toushao Tony James noted that there have been some painful experiences that have come about because of agreements that villages have signed with outsiders without getting proper advice. Sometimes people come into our communities and offer to do business with the village e.g. mining and logging or extracting medicinal plants or insects etc. He cautioned the leaders to be very careful when approached by these people. They will almost always tell you how your village will benefit from their venture and how you can personally benefit. Knowing the poor people we are, wanting to live like the so-called modern civilization, a civilization that only survives by power and money, will easily fall into the trap. They would bring an agreement that they want you to sign, sometimes telling you that they have to return quickly. Thinking that everything is fine, you go ahead and sign. After you sign and the operation begins, you find out that the agreement you signed is not taking place. These are things that we have to be wary of advised the Deputy Chief of the Region 9 Toushaos/Amerindian Council.

Mark Atkinson from Region 1 shared an experience recently that involved a community and a mining company. Mr. Atkinson claimed that Chinese Landing is a village that has been neglected by the government. The only time any official goes in is during the election season. The village never had a school and the Captain of the village cannot read, he noted. The village is situated in an area with large deposits of gold. A mining company went seeking permission to mine in the village and promised all kinds of benefits. He read an agreement to the Captain and asked him to sign it, which he did. When the company started moving in its equipment, the people started questioning the Captain and protested against the company in the village. When the Captain learnt about some of the conditions and power the company had, he said if only he new this was what the company was doing he would not have signed the agreement. He signed this agreement without the consent of the people and it is valid for 25 years.

In another experience Mr. Atkinson explained that there is a company that buys manicole cabbage and pays the communities with rations and money. The communities thought that the company should pay royalty. The company then went to the regional body and negotiated with the regional representative to whom they are now paying the royalty instead. The communities now have to apply for funds through projects that would have to be approved before they can benefit from this royalty.

Toushao Tony James mentioned that when these people come to communities some of the councilors are always away at the farm, or down river fishing, or hunting in the forest. He reminded the leaders that these people need something from us and they cannot force us to sign anything. The Toushao advised that the people should wait until a discussion takes place and a decision made. The Toushao is not the one with power; it is the people who have the final say on it.

Sidney Allicock (Region 9) suggested forming a body along with the Amerindian organizations who can investigate these problems and come up recommendations and solutions to solve them.

Councilor Jimmy James (Region 8) was of the opinion that certain things in the central government need to be changed since they have the power to say who can enter a community or not and it is the village that should have that power.

Toushao Penuex (Region 6) believed that this problem will have to be solved by the people with the aid of the organizations and international institutions but all the hard work will have to be done by the people.

Toushao Lawrence Anselmo (Region 7) called on all Amerindians to organize themselves at the regional level where they can form a body of regional representatives. The APA can help in giving the necessary advice and acquiring legal advice for this body.

Chief of Chiefs Eugene Isaacs (Region 9) said that when the government comes to Amerindians they always consult with their advisers first. He thought it is only fair that Amerindians also have a legal adviser when the government comes our communities. Through the APA Amerindians can acquire legal advice, he proposed.

It was unanimously decided that legal representation is needed.

Toushao Tony James (Region 9). Over the last few days we have shared with each other all our troubles. One of the ways in which we can make the government listen to us is by holding a march. It was proposed that we stage a national march to Georgetown where we can capture the attention of the authorities of the day. This will demonstrate to them that we are in solidarity with each other and we are serious about the recommendations that we made about our rights and that it was time that they start listening to us. It has been done in other countries many times where they believed that their peaceful way of life was very important to them. We should go together and ask the government to listen to and address our problems, to stop doing things behind our backs, to speak to us like big people and to stop treating like little children. It is going to be a long march and we have to think seriously about what it will entail. For us to effectively make an impact we have to come out in numbers. We are not doing this for publicity but for our people, our children and our children’s children. This is the time to think of our lands, our culture, our survival and the survival of our children. Whatever we do we must remember that it is for our people and nothing else.

There was wide spread support for this march among the participants.

Ms Jean La Rose said that Amerindians are a rich set of people, comprised of nine distinct peoples with our own languages. Amerindian culture, according to Ms. La Rose, is natural and unique, that no other ethnic group practice or enjoy. The outside civilization has somehow made us feel inferior. In other countries indigenous peoples are placing a lot of value on some of these thing that we don’t consider important to us. Their rich tradition includes telling stories in their own language about all aspects of life and all other things that their fore parents did. She spoke about Amerindian’s knowledge of the medicinal values of fruits, barks, leaves, etc. that are used for different purposes, about our knowledge of the environment and our rich stories and dances. She said that this knowledge does not have to be forgotten because there is a hospital to go to. All the things we do make us a distinct people with a distinct culture. She concluded by telling the people that it will be difficult to revive a lost culture if we lose it now.

Next followed a demonstration of the uses of some medicinal plants by Edgar Antonio and others.

Mr. Fergus Mackay encouraged the older folks to tell their children their secrets about their culture who can write and make a library of it. He told the leaders that when the old people die, they are buried with their language and culture. He then spoke about how to keep and protect it from the outside word.

Toushao Anselmo (Region 7) explained the history and culture project that the Akawaio and Arecuna peoples of the Upper Mazaruni have started with the help of the APA. He said that they are recording stories, songs, and other knowledge and that they hope to establish a cultural center in the Upper Mazaruni where the children can learn about these things and where their own people could be trained to do the type of research that outsiders are always doing on them. He hoped that one day research would be done by Amerindians and for Amerindians, not on Amerindians for others.

Medex Eugene Xavier (Region 9) spoke about a book that has been published by the North Macushi Women that explains the use of bush medicines.

This was one of the most important activities that took place at the end of the First National Toushaos Conference. To start off, a Toushao from Region 9 spoke about the peace treaty that was signed last year between the Wapisianas, Macusis, and the Patamonas. At that ceremony Shiriri Mountain was recognized as the last battleground of the Wapishanas and the Macushis and all pledged that there would be no more fighting between them and that they would work together in peace for their common good.

This was followed by the reading of a Treaty of Peace and Friendship between the nine Amerindian peoples of Guyana. The peace treaty was unanimously approved and signed by the Toushaos, after which they made a circle, observed a minute of silence for the past leaders and then took a drank of Parakari from one calabash to seal the pact between them.

The resolutions were read by Toushao Clive Patterson, adopted by Toushao Newsum and seconded by the Toushao of St. Ignatius. There was unanimous support for the resolutions. The resolutions are annexed to this report.

Most of the Toushaos made statements expressing their appreciation for the Conference and the Conference organizers and asked that a similar gathering be held again in the near future or, if possible, on an annual basis. The women of the Zeriwa Women’s Organisation were especially thanked for all their hard work in the kitchens making sure that all the participants were well fed and content. One of the Toushaos expressed his disappointment about the fact that the representative of the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Mr. Vivian Fredricks, had failed to sign the Statement Supporting the Toushaos Statement to the Constitution Reform Commission, after promising to do so more than once. Some of the other Toushaos supported this statement. After a few more words the Conference was official declared closed by Captain General, Lawrence Anselmo of Paruima and Deputy Chief of Chiefs Tony James of Aishalton. That evening a famous culture show was held in which the Paruima culture group performed traditional Arecuna dances, Moses David played the flute and sang Macusi songs and many others showed their pride in their Amerindian cultural heritage.

We the Toshaos, Councilors and Participants present at the National Toshaos Conference unanimously make the following statements, resolutions and recommendations. Together we represent the vast majority of Amerindian communities in Guyana. We have gathered here in the spirit of peace, friendship and unity, deeply concerned that the situation of the Amerindian peoples of Guyana desperate. We ask that the Government and the Guyanese people listen to and respect the decisions made by us here, as stated below, and hope that we are not ignored as we have been many times before.

We fully recognise the importance of the Statement of Toshaus’ and National Amerindian Organisations submitted to the Constitution Reform Commission and are in full support and have signed individually to endorse the statement.

We acknowledge the struggle of our brothers and sisters of Region 7 Upper Mazaruni in their lawsuit seeking protection for their land rights and are in full support of this.

1. We demand that the Government stop granting concessions to mining and logging companies in and around Amerindian lands. And all mining and logging operations be suspended immediately, until all Amerindian land right issues are settled.

2. We reject all demarcations of our lands and demand the Government demarcate based on our ancestral, historical occupation and use of the land we know to be ours. This must be done to the satisfaction of the people.
3. Amerindian lands that were leased or given to individuals and companies must be returned or given back to the Amerindians concerned.
4. All illegal mining activities must be stopped immediately until all outstanding Amerindian land right issues are adequately dealt with.
5. We have the right to accept or reject any permission or permissions given to Non-Amerindians entering into Amerindian villages by the Amerindian Ministry. Furthermore, should we invite someone to our villages the Minister should respect our wishes.
6. All projects in Amerindian Villages be monitored and in cases we could also manage and execute same. Our own local people should do these projects.
7. To reserve the right to participate in the decision-making process pertaining to Amerindian issues e.g. the revision of the Amerindian Act.
8. We reaffirm our support for Ms. Jean La Rose, as our representative on the Constitution Reform Commission. We believe that she is representing our interests and are proud of the job she has done so far.

RESOLUTIONS

1. Having recently been informed of the latest development of the Presidents’ Order to extend the boundary of the Kaiteur National Park, which is clearly in violation of the basic Human Rights of the people of Chenapau.

1. Whereas we the Macusi, Wapisiana and Wai Wai nations of Region 9 are deeply concerned about the vast areas of our Amerindian ancestral lands that have been granted to the Vannessa mining. Whereas no proper consultation with the peoples concerned was done prior to the granting of this concession. This is seen as a total violation of our Indigenous human rights.

Be it resolved, that this National Toshaos Conference demands that the Government revoke all documents and reconnaissance permits granted to the Vannessa company and other logging and mining companies until proper consultation and our consent is given.

Be it further resolved that the Macusi, Wai Wai and Wapisiana peoples of Region 9 have all their outstanding land claims settled to our satisfaction.

2. Whereas Shiriri Mountain bears historical significance as a battle ground between the Wapisiana and the Macusi peoples;

Whereas, this mountain has provided for the past and present generations with natural plants and food;

Whereas, this mountain also bears spiritual and cultural significance to our peoples;

Be it resolved, that we totally object to the proposal of the establishment of a National Park in this area.

3. Whereas the NAC is not functioning now and has not functioned since it started;

5. Whereas the Amerindian peoples of Guyana have been are still are discriminated

against both in law and practice, especially concerning our rights to own our ancestral

lands;

Be it resolved that we demand that all discrimination against our peoples be

immediately stopped and remedied.

1. We call upon the Government to enter into meaningful dialogue with Amerindian peoples to bring about a peaceful settlement of all land claims.
2. All Captains must be trained as Rural Constables and sworn in immediately. Also, all Captains must be sworn in and trained as Justices of the Peace as provided by Section 14A of the Amerindian Act.

3. Captains’ stipends must be substantially increased to the level of a salary. Those Village Councils that wish to pay their Captains must be allowed to do so.
4. Rules and regulations made by communities must be legally binding and not subject to interference by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs as provided for by the Amerindian Act.
5. Public servants salary claims be approved.
6. We demand that the Government recognise the three National Amerindian Organisations as our legitimate representatives and act accordingly.
7. Full recognition be given to Alleluia Church of Guyana and must be respected by other religious groups in Guyana.
8. There must be equal access to all forms of education in the interior, including secondary education. Educational facilities must have the same equipment and trained teachers as those on the coast. Amerindians have been discriminated against in the field of education for too long. Also, Interior Scholarships must be increased and better living conditions provided for Hinterland Scholars .

We call upon the Minister of Agriculture responsible for forests and the Commissioner of Forests to release the current version of the draft Forests Act so that it can be reviewed by Amerindian communities; that we be given an opportunity to study and make recommendations for changes, so that we can ensure that our legal and traditional rights are not violated. We note that the Amerindian Peoples Association has already made recommendations on the draft Forests Act and will continue to do so.

Hilton James, Captain Reg. 1,

John Atkinson, Captain Reg.1, Santa Rosa

David Newsum, Captain Reg, 1 Wawamuri

Alexis Samuel, Captain Reg.1

Jerome Brescenio, Reg. 1 Capt.

Imelda Jones, Villager Reg. 1

Suzie Antonio, Villager Reg. 1,Youth

Errol Charles, Councilor, Reg. 1

Hilary Henry, Cpt. Rep. Reg. 1

Alvin Daniels, Villager, Reg. 1

Edgar Antonio, Councilor Reg.1

Lloyd Perreira, Cpt. Reg. 2, Wakapoa

Roy Rodrigues, Captain ,Reg. 2, Akawini Mission

Wendell Thomas, Capt. Reg. 2 , Bethany Mission

Levi Williams, Reg. 2, Captain Mashabo

Thomas Charles, (Captain) Reg. 2, St Monicas

Doreen Jacobis, Captain, St. Denyse Mission

John Jacobus, Captain, Region # 2 Kabacaburi

Yvonne Fredricks, Region #2 Captain, Mainstay/Wyaka

Theresa Allicock, Councilor Reg. 2

Clive Patterson, Reg.3 Captain, Santa/Aratak

Winston Clinton, Captain Reg.5, Moraikabai

Joseph Penuex, Captain of Orealla/ Siparuta Reg.6

Lawrence Anselmo, Captain, Paruima, Region 7

Czar Henry, Capt. Jawalla

Jonah George, Captain, Chinoweing, Region 7

Van Mendason, Captain, Phillipai Village, Reg.7

Dutchell Issacs, Captain, Waramadong Village, Reg.7

Anderson Hastings, Captain, Kako Village, Reg.7

Benette John ,Capt. Rep. Kambaru Village

Norma S. Thomas, Captain, Kamarang/ Warawatta, Region 7

Nita Henry, Villager, Reg. 7

Linton John, Villager, Reg.7

Villen John, Villager, Reg.7

Calio Elliman, Villager, Reg.7

Matthew Elliman, Villager, Reg.7

Renlyn Perry, Youth, Reg.7

Leslyn Edmund,Youth, Reg.7

Narika Abraham, Youth, Reg.7

Peresford Albert, Youth, Reg.7

Deolinda Perry, Youth, Reg.7

Ian Anselmo, Youth, Reg.7

Kelly Andries, M.P, Reg.7

Anthony Melville, Captain/Toshao, Chenapau, Reg.#8

Victor Pio, Kaibarupai, Toshao

Lucinia Alphonso, Kanapang, Captain

Peter Pablo, Kopinang,Toshao

Eric Roberts, Mahdia, Toshao

Moses David, Itabac, Toshao

Maurice Aaron, Kurukabaru, Councilor

Frank Isaacs, Taruka,Toshao

Matheson Williams, Toshao, Paramakatoi

Senor Bell, Paramakatoi, Villager, Reg.8

Jefferson Robin, Paramakatoi, Reg.8

John Aldie, Paramakatoi, Reg.8

Jimmy James, Villager, Reg.8

Elsie Melville, Villager, Reg.8

Candida Francis, Village Councilor, Kato, Reg.8

Tony James, Toshao, Aishalton, Reg.9

William Andries, Toshao, Toka, Reg.9

Lawrence Jeffery, Toshao, Massara, Reg.9

Eric Isaacs, Karaudarnaua, Reg.9

Ernest Johnson, Toshao, Achawib, Reg. 9

Martin Pablo,Toshao, Marupanau

Baldwin Joseph, Deputy Toshao, Annai

William Perreira, Toshao, Tipuru, Reg.9

John Simon, Toshao,Karasbai, Reg.9

Paul Stanislaus, Toshao, Potarinau, Reg.9

Winston Edward, Toshao, Rewa, Reg.9

Eugene Isaacs, Chief of Chiefs, Toka, Reg.9

Paul Chekema, Toshao, Gunns, Reg.9

Ernesto Farias, Toshao, St. Ignatius, Reg. 9

Jerome Marques, Toshao, Yurong Paru, Reg.9

Habert Wilson, Toshao, Katoonarib, Reg. 9

Willie Clement,Toshao, Shulinab, Reg.9

Andrew Anderson, Toshao, Moco Moco, Reg.9

Lucas Antone, Toshao, Region 9

Leonard Fredericks, Captain, Great Falls Village, Region 10

Elizabeth Andre, Aishalton Village, Reg.9

Chad Phillip,Karaudarnau Village, Reg.9

Albany Wilson,Katoonarib Village, Reg.9

Evaristo Joseph,Karaudarnau Village, Reg.9

Zita Isaacs, Karaudarnaua Village, Reg.9

Julietta Wilson, Rupanau Village, Reg. 9

Pauline Singh, Katoonarib Village, Reg.9

Theela Joseph, Sawariwau Village, Reg.9

Marlon Agustus, Shea Village, Reg. 9

Wallace Williams,Shea Village, Reg. 9

Sharon Realine, Aishalton Village, Reg. 9

Ignatius Rufino, Shea Village, Reg. 9

James Sose, Gunns strip, Reg. 9

Ayay Rayanana, Gunns Strip, Reg. 9

Faustin John, Small Sand Creek, Reg. 9

Alvin Edwards, Karasabai Village, Reg. 9

Richard Felix, Villager, Shulinab, Reg. 9

Nellie Felix, Councilor, Shulinab, reg. 9

Idaline Wilson, Katoonarib, Reg. 9

Davis Williams, Annai, Region 9

Robert Agustine, Reg. 9

Sidwell Johnson, Youth, Achiwib, Reg. 9

Benedict James, Regional Councilor, Sand Creek, Reg. 9

Hendrick Lawrence, Youth, Yapukari Village, Reg. 9

Lionel Griffith, Councilor, Shea, Reg. 9

Henson Mack,Councilor, Katoonarib, Reg. 9

Derek Winter, Councilor, Reg. 9

Yvonne Winter, Secretary, Women’s Group, Reg. 9

Ladislaus St. Hill, Rupunau Youth, Reg. 9

Henry Jerome, Rupunau Youth, Reg. 9

Madeline Francis, Yupukari Village, Reg. 9

Anita Thomas, Youth, Yupukari Village, Reg. 9

Rocky Marco, Sand Creek, Reg. 9

Vernon James, Youth, Aishalton, Reg. 9

Jackson Mc Craken, Youth, Achiwib, Reg. 9

Vannie David, Youth, Aishalton, Reg. 9

Angelbert Joanny, Sawariwau Village, Reg. 9

Daniel Joseph, Maruranau Councilor, Reg. 9

Nigel Marco, Maruranau Villager, Reg. 9

Lawrence Scipio, Toshao, Apoteri, Reg. 9

Michael Simon, Maruranau Villager, Reg. 9

Jonathan Joseph, St. Ignatius Villager, Reg. 9

Eugene Xavier, Medex, Annai.

Peter Joseph, Villager, St. Ignatius Village.

Virgil Ferreira, Jawalla, Reg. 7

Newton Bartholomew, Reg. 9

Francis James, Region 9

Ronald Joseph, Region 9

Keith Sandy, Reg. 9

Shirley Melville, Lethem.

Muacir Baretto, Regional Chairman, Reg. 9

Vincent Henry, Regional Vice- Chairman, Reg. 9

Harold D’Aguiar, Lethem.

Emeline Baretto, chairperson, St. Ignatius Women’s Group.

Leonard Edwards, Lethem.

Eugene Andrew, Toshao, Sand Creek, Reg. 9

Richard Wilson, Toshao, Rupanau, Reg. 9

Clifton Laurindo, Toshao, Reg. 9

Andrew Demetro, Toshao, Reg.9, Nappi

Noel Anthony, Toshao, Reg. 9

Simon Adrian, Captain, Reg. 10,

Richard Bowen, Capt. Reg. 10, Riversview

Frank Macedo, Captain, Reg.10, Kimbia

Andray Lindie, Capt. Reg. 10,

Calton Fiedtkou, Councilor, Reg. 10, Malali

Fergus MacKay FPP

Amstrong Wiggins ILRC

Steve Tulberg ILRC

Enrico W Alton Jones

Melinda Janki