(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) The Secretary General and Staff of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat mourn the passing of Mr. William “Billy” Pilgrim, one of Guyana’s and the Region’s cultural icons.

Mr. Pilgrim recognised, respected, and celebrated the rich cultural history of the Region and worked tirelessly to ensure that this legacy would not only be expressed but also be preserved.

He will be remembered as one who recognised the power of culture as a unifying force and who sought continuously to demonstrate this with a zealousness that was reflected in his work in the various genres, particularly in music and the performing arts.

As one of the architects of the First Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) held in Guyana in 1972, Billy Pilgrim will always be remembered for his tremendous efforts toward ensuring that the “grand experiment,” would be successful, and ultimately, transformed into one of the greatest cultural traditions of the Region, and indeed the world.

As the Caribbean region prepares to celebrate the Ninth CARIFESTA from 22 September -1 October, 2006 in Trinidad and Tobago, we will remember Billy Pilgrim with fondness and admiration. The artistic community of the Region can pay him no greater tribute than to continue the pursuit of excellence in the arts of which he was so proud.

The CARICOM Secretariat takes this opportunity to extend sincere condolences to his grieving family, friends and the artistic community of Guyana. May his soul rest in peace.