Black Panther star encourages Parliamentarians to foster peace and love

As she continues to make waves during her first visit to Guyana after some 20 years abroad, star of the Black Panther franchise and Guyanese national, Letitia Wright, addressed Members of Parliament on Monday and encouraged them to foster peace and love.

“I just want to thank everyone that has invited me to return home and just encourage you all, I don’t know the ins and outs of politics, I just care more about children and the betterment of young people.

“But as you all come together to make decisions for the country, I encourage both sides, both parties; I encourage peace, I encourage love. I am of peace, I am of love and I’m just proud of you both and everybody that’s working together for the betterment and empowerment of our country,” the 29-year-old Guyanese-British movie star said in her brief speech.

Ms Wright said she wasn’t slated to address the Parliamentarians today but she wanted to find ways in which she could use her platform “for good” and to encourage youths to pursue their dreams just as she did when she left her Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara home for the United Kingdom at the age of eight.

“Because I am the daughter of the soil of Guyana, so my return means a lot for me, I’ve not been home in about 20 years now,” Ms Wright said.

In response to Ms Wright, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips said “We feel honoured that you were able to not only spend time with us but address us.”

Opposition Parliamentarian, Cathy Hughes, also welcomed the star and reminded her of the impact she has made on the youths not only in Guyana but globally.

“The impact of your movies really brought a lot of self-esteem and worth to many, many young people who rarely saw dark skin supermodels.

“And I say to you, the genius of the movies, the encouragement you’ve given to all the young people, we thank you for that. We’re so proud that you come from us,” Hughes said.

Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Lenox Shuman told the star that she is a “fantastic role model”.

The Black Panther star arrived in Guyana on Friday last and has already conducted a number of activities. She is slated to meet with President Dr Irfaan Ali later.