MUCH has been said about the Ethnic Relations Commission since its inauguration in the early 2000s. Better known by its acronym, ERC, this constitutional body was constituted to, among other functions, investigate complaints of racism, prosecute persons found guilty of race practices, and to promote racial harmony and good race relations. In a society that is challenged by intolerance. There are those who have heaped scorn and vituperation on this body, pointing out that it has been afraid to carry out its mandate as it should, and that it is convenient in its criticisms.
First of all, given the nation’s history, such a body is essential. I believe that many Guyanese had been expecting this institution to be hauling persons and entities in the breach, before the courts. Maybe there were/are instances when this could have been done. But this office has instead chosen the medium of conflict resolution as a tool in adjudicating issues that have come to its desks. Its many outreach programmes promoting tolerance and harmonious relations among the nation’s people must be commended. I do believe that its work must be impacting on the races, bringing home the reality of the necessity of harmony. Surely, we do need this institution despite what its detractors have been saying.
One of the commendable approaches of the ERC is its broad based style of consultations it is currently engaged in, as it embarks on its Strategic Assessment Process. With religion being such a strong component in this country’s social life it is strategically wise to have the different faiths involve in the critical process of promoting tolerance and racial harmony. It has to be, for there is no other journey that this nation can undertake for a peaceful future, except one of HARMONY.
The Ethnic Relations Commission must be commended for its efforts made thus far, and be wished every success in its future endeavours.