i am unable to open or upgrade my iPhotos on my Mac

iPhoto was replaced by the Photos many years ago.

Look for this icon:

When you open the Photos App for the first time, it should automatically find and import your iPhoto Library.

Switch to Photos from iPhoto on Mac - Apple Support

Otherwise, as mentioned by Niel, press the option key on your keyboard while opening the Photos App.

Open Photos from the Applications folder or the Dock with the Option key held down, click on Other Library, and choose the iPhoto one.

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