Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams joined Guyanese nationals living in Brooklyn for the celebration of their country's independence.
The country obtained independence 49 years ago, but activists say people there are still lacking a national identity to unify six distinct ethnic groups.
Members of the Guyana Tri-State Alliance, which helped organize the event, say the theme for this year's celebration is "six peoples, one nation, one destiny."
Organizers say they also hope that Guyanese nationals living in the United States can help spread democratic ideals in their own country.