Vincentians and other nationals gathered at the Venezuelan Embassy in Richmond Hill, December 19, in solidarity with Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, as he recovered in Cuba from surgery for cancer.{{more}}

The event took on a spirited atmosphere, as local and foreign artistes performed for the recovery of Chavez, as well as in commemoration of the bicentennial of the Cartagena Manifesto.

Kejoe Browne, a staff worker at the Venezuelan Embassy, said Chavez, 58, was ordered to rest completely, and rigorously receive stipulated medical treatment.

Chavez suffered a respiratory infection on December 16, after undergoing cancer surgery in Cuba five days earlier.

Well-wishers rendered poetry, dances, songs and played musical instruments, as well as offered prayers at an activity that was more upbeat than the church service at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Kingstown two days before.

Performers included Jomoro Francis on pan, who was accompanied by his friend Stern on keyboard. They played “Giving Thanks” by Beres Hammond and Lionel Richie’s classic “Hello”.

Cuban musician Anna Lee Rodriguez performed two Cuban pieces on the flute. She later returned to lead a rousing rendition of “Guantanamera”, one of the most famous Cuban songs.

Veteran poet David “Darkie” Williams performed a poem written by St Clair Jimmy Prince.

Sean Frederick recited the poem “I am Culture” and then performed a dance routine with Stacy Samuel.

Other performers included Javelle “Lady Diya” Frank, Laura Matthews, Kerrian Cato, and Coranie Chandler, Lystra Burgin, and the Resistance Heartbeat Drummers.

Addressing the gathering were chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of Venezuela Dalina Guanipa, president of the Venezuelan-Vincentian Friendship Association (VENVIFA) Mike Browne, and Dr Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The event was organized by VENVIFA and the Venezuela embassy.(JJ)