The Guyanese American community in New York and its wider Diaspora is mourning the sudden loss of Claire Ann Goring, a revered cultural advocate, and community leader.
Goring, aged 72, passed away on January 15th, 2024, in Brooklyn, NY, on MLK Day. Hailing from Victoria Village, Guyana, she attended Bishop’s High School in Georgetown.
In Guyana, Goring collaborated with the late Neil Chan of Solo Power to boost tourism and cultural events. Making history as the first woman to present a costume band under Solo Productions Mas in Guyana during the 70s and 80s, her dedication earned recognition from various organizations.
Upon moving to the US, Goring continued her cultural advocacy, gaining acclaim for outstanding costume designs and receiving accolades at various events.
Claire Goring, an artist and CEO of Hybiskus Creations, operated from her studio in Canarsie, Brooklyn, New York, developing a line of handmade greeting and inspirational cards. Her creative scope extended to graphic design, magazine production, brochures, newspapers, and marketing campaigns.
Her talent and commitment to promoting and preserving Guyana’s culture inspired numerous projects. Acknowledged for winning costume designs in Guyana and at the Labor Day Carnival in Brooklyn, Goring also produced shows featuring Caribbean talent. As the Cultural Director of the Guyana Cultural Association of New York, she played a pivotal role in organizing events like Kwe-Kwe Night and the Guyana Folk Festival/Family Fun Day during the Labor Day weekend in Brooklyn.
On Aug. 31, 2016, Goring received the Guyana Cultural Association Lifetime Achievement Award at the 13th Annual Awards ceremony at the Brooklyn Borough Hall. She was also presented with a Citation from then Brooklyn Borough President, now NYC Mayor, Eric L. Adams.
“I am truly humbled and honored to receive this award,” Goring expressed at the time.
Additionally, she served as the President of Friends of Victoria Village Diaspora.
Goring’s legacy as a cultural icon and her dedication to preserving Guyana’s heritage will endure in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.
