From: The Encyclopedia of Canada's Peoples/Guyanese/Subhas Ramcharan
Guyanese are part of a new wave of immigrants that since the early 1970s has come predominantly from the non-white world. In Canada many individuals view with distaste the two racial groups that comprise the vast majority of Guyanese in this country: those of African or Asian Indian background. Research has shown the impact of racial discrimination on such immigrants. It suggests that Canada is a racially stratified society, with a majority of non-whites occupying a lower socioeconomic status. As well, public-opinion polls have consistently revealed that such newcomers face the most social discrimination and their culture and institutions are denigrated. Many Guyanese with professional qualifications have had to seek recertification in Canada, but their adaptation to this country has been somewhat easier than that of skilled tradesmen, who have experienced overt discrimination. In the face of such hostility, Guyanese immigrants have nonetheless been able to adapt to the new society.
Research suggests that the key variables determining the successful adaptation of Guyanese in Canada are length of residence and occupational status. Those who have been in this country longer than seven years, who have chosen to become Canadian citizens, and who are professional, technical, or skilled workers are more likely to express satisfaction with their decision to migrate. Notwithstanding their low acceptance in Canadian society, the majority of Guyanese still see this country as a haven from the social, economic, and political problems of their homeland.
One of the major issues facing the community in Canada is the creation and preservation of a distinct Guyanese identity in addition to Asian Indian or African ancestry. Given the recent history of racial intolerance and conflict in the homeland, uniting under a common identity has not been an easy task. At a superficial level, Asian Indian and African Guyanese interact with each other at work, in neighbourhoods, and through formal associations. For example, while the Indo-Caribbean organizations in Canada attract Guyanese of Asian Indian background, some also belong to the Guyana-Canada Association, which is an organization mainly for those of African origin. Among the leadership in both groups there is the awareness that insularity according to racial background is a negative factor in the creation of a group identity. Interracial cooperation can be fostered since Guyanese culture is a unique amalgam of different racial groups and is therefore distinct from African or Asian Indian cultural identity. However, it will take more time for social interaction to occur and for a distinctive Guyanese identity to emerge.
