ANY casual observer looking in on Guyana may be inclined to think the intolerance its citizens harbour towards each other — more particularly among some within the leadership of society, across the spectrum — is borne from an irreversible and deep-seated hatred.Yet, this could not be further from the truth; and dare it be said that in spite of historical conflicts, the evolution of this society, more particularly in the 20th century, has seen development influenced in significant measure by our diversity.

Our history shows diverse groups: race, class, rural/urban/hinterland, religion, descendants of the enslaver, enslaved and indentured, coming together as a common force to achieve our independence. A major benefit of diversity is that each group has its unique characteristics, accompanied by perspective and strengths, which when combined can make the strong stronger and offset weaknesses. Those were the characteristics that bound the society in the years of resistance to the yoke of colonial bondage.

Unfortunately, it has become a fad to point fingers at the other for the state of affairs the country is in, or decline to accept the thoughts or input of another because it did not originate from you or your group, which deprives society of the benefit of diverse inputs. None has the monopoly on knowledge, and to believe otherwise is synonymous to having one’s head in the cloud and losing sight of the big picture.

Had the zero-sum approach taken to ‘the other’ in dealing with the nation’s affairs not been so debilitating to the people, this attitude would have been laughable. In other societies, where leaders — including those running for office and elected — tout the ability or commitment to work across the aisle as testimony of embracing diversity and being inclusive, it is to this society’s benefit should we work to make this a part of our lexicon and action.

The people continue to hold out hope that, should their leaders work together, irrespective of differences, it would improve security and standard of living across the board. A feature that distinguishes Guyanese is that almost all are descendants of groups that were marginalised and discriminated against. It would be reasonable to assume that coming from shared common experiences of subjugation — notwithstanding the degree of severity inflicted on different groups — such is enough for us to be respectful of the other and tap into the resources, talents and skills of all.

Contrary to the held view that working with others, including rival or opponent, constitutes weakness; it requires strength of character to acknowledge one does not know it all and cannot do it all, and diversity aids in reaching or accessing a wider pool of thought, talent and skill.

Where diversity is encouraged and seen as an important element in the country’s mosaic, such not only creates the sense of belonging, but stability and desire to want to give of one’s best, given vested input and interest. Looking around in society, the signs for inclusion and respect for one’s unique history and ability are clear. That the wealth of this country not only lies within its bosom but in all the people who are equal stakeholders, all deserve to play their part. Though tempting it may be to settle past scores, perceived or real, or wanting to see the other fail, this zero-sum or intolerant approach to our fellow man is more reminiscent of the era when we were not free. Our collective wellbeing is intertwined, not separate.

In a few weeks, Guyanese will exit our 50th anniversary of political independence. Our independence was not intended for the free to adopt the repressive ways of those who had held them in bandage. Independence was achieved to advance the growth and development of each citizen through equal opportunity, protection, access and held standards, in order that their God-given potential can be unleashed to their benefit and that of the nation.

We are six peoples, some will say more. Our diverse historical experiences, culture, identity, talent, skill and interest are meant to blossom like a garden, where each plant, though different, lends to nature’s beauty, serves its unique purpose, and plays a role in protecting the ecosystem. The human species is no different. Guyanese must therefore seek to protect, deepen and strengthen our diversity, which is vital to our development.