The petition by the Indian Diaspora Council International (IDC), organizations, associations, community advocates and supporters worldwide for the Government of Guyana to issue a commemorative postage stamp by 22 March 2018 as a centennial tribute to the late Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan and in recognition of the 100th birthday of the "Father of the Nation" as he is commonly regarded. The late Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan would have celebrated his 100th birthday on 22 March 2018.
Quotation from biography of late Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan:
"Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan (b. 22 March 1918 – d. 6 March 1997) was a Guyanese politician who was first elected Chief Minister in 1953 and later Premier of British Guiana from 1961 to 1964, prior to independence. He played a key role in Guyana's struggle for independence from Great Britain. He later served as President of Guyana from 1992 to 1997. For his contribution in the struggle for independence and lifelong service to Guyana, he is widely regarded as the "Father of the Nation". He was a popular figure due to his tireless efforts on behalf of equitable treatment of workers and farmers in Guyana".
Born: March 22, 1918 - Port Mourant, Guyana
Died: March 6, 1997 - Washington, D.C, USA.
Spouse: Janet Jagan (b. 20 October 1920 (USA); m. 5 August 1943; d. 28 March 2009)
Children: Cheddi Jagan Jr. (USA) USA; Nadira Jagan Brancier (Canada)
Education: Northwestern University (USA), Howard University (USA)
Books: The West on Trial (1966); Forbidden Freedom: The Story...(1954)
Political Career: Chief Minister: 1953; Premier: 1961-1964; President: 1992-1997
The petition states that "the proposed commemorative postage stamp is fitting, deserving, historic and timely, a recognition of late Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan, a highly acclaimed stalwart internationally, and for his lifelong service, legacy and influence on the people everywhere". A suggested commemorative postage stamp was included in the IDC request to the Government of Guyana.
IDC statement: "The late Dr. Jagan was an internationally acclaimed stalwart, a champion of the people who fought for Guyana's independence, and embraced diversity and strength through unity. His lifelong service to the people of Guyana, his ideals and vision engendered consensus for understanding, cooperation and progress among all people".
Suggested postage stamp design has been submitted to the Government of Guyana.
Members of IDC's Committee on the Centennial Tribute to the late Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan comprise family members of the late Dr. Jagan, community advocates and supporters of the petition.
