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Guyanese Americans facts for kids

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Guyanese Americans
Total population
208,899 (±11,894)
Regions with significant populations
New York · New Jersey · Florida · Georgia · California · Texas · Pennsylvania · Maryland
Languages
English · Guyanese Creole · Guyanese Hindustani (Hindi-Urdu) · Portuguese · Chinese · Akawaio · Macushi · Waiwai · Arawak · Patamona · Warrau · Carib · Wapishana · Arekuna
Religion
Christianity · Hinduism · Islam
Related ethnic groups
Trinidadian and Tobagonian Americans · Surinamese Americans · Caribbean Americans · Indo-Caribbean Americans · African Americans · Chinese Americans · Portuguese Americans

Guyanese Americans are a group of Americans whose families originally came from Guyana. Guyana is a country located in South America. As of 2011, there were about 208,899 Guyanese Americans living in the United States.

Many Guyanese Americans live in New York City. Around 140,000 of them call New York City home. This makes them the fifth-largest group of people born outside the U.S. who live in the city.

Where Guyanese Americans Live

Guyanese Americans live in many different parts of the United States. While a large number live in New York City, they also form communities in other states.

Major States with Guyanese American Communities

Besides New York, you can find many Guyanese Americans in:

These areas often have strong cultural ties to Guyana. People can find Guyanese food, music, and traditions there.

Languages Spoken by Guyanese Americans

Guyanese Americans speak several different languages. This shows the rich mix of cultures in Guyana itself.

Common Languages

The main language spoken is English. However, many also speak:

  • Guyanese Creole: This is a language based on English, but with its own unique words and grammar.
  • Guyanese Hindustani: This language comes from Hindi and Urdu. It is spoken by people whose ancestors came from India.
  • Portuguese: Some Guyanese Americans speak Portuguese.
  • Chinese: A smaller number speak Chinese languages.

Indigenous Languages

Guyana is also home to several indigenous (native) groups. Their languages are also part of the Guyanese heritage. These include:

  • Akawaio
  • Macushi
  • Waiwai
  • Arawak
  • Patamona
  • Warrau
  • Carib
  • Wapishana
  • Arekuna

Religions Practiced by Guyanese Americans

Guyanese Americans follow different religions. This reflects the diverse backgrounds of people who came to Guyana over time.

Main Religions

The most common religions among Guyanese Americans are:

  • Christianity: This includes various Christian churches.
  • Hinduism: Many Guyanese Americans practice Hinduism, especially those of Indian descent.
  • Islam: Islam is also a significant religion within the community.

These religions play an important role in the cultural life of Guyanese Americans.

Related Communities

Guyanese Americans share connections with other groups in the United States. These connections often come from shared history or cultural backgrounds.

Other Caribbean and American Groups

Some related groups include:

These groups often share similar traditions, foods, and experiences of moving to the United States.



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