IT was very heartening to note general society’s condemnation of the derogatory remarks made by the business couple in respect of the Amerindian young lady whom they once employed. To say that it is very disappointing is to treat such a repugnant situation lightly, for it is unbelievable that such a dark, descriptive emission can come forth from human beings. That such a negative can happen in a multi racial society as ours only serves to undermine the tremendous efforts done throughout this nation by the Ethnic Relations Commission to foster better harmonious relations among all Guyanese, coupled with mutual respect.

I will always speak out against such behaviour; for not only is it odious to my entire persona, but goes entirely against my beliefs in the universality of man and God’s creation. No one must ever harbour such dehumanising beliefs about the other because of differentiation of race, especially. We are not responsible for whatever ethnic strain from which we descend, for a variety of reasons which do not concern the thrust of this piece. That is why I do not ever subscribe to the term ‘racial tolerance”, which is interpreted to mean – having to accept/abide/put up with a particular situation that one would not otherwise want. Why must I behave towards another fellow human in such an unkind manner because of perception?

Let it be stated, inter alia, that our Amerindian peoples, the first peoples of this ever since diverse nation, are Guyanese born and bred, similarly as all who would have originated herein, and notwithstanding their peculiarities based on culture and geography are every inch human and ought to be respected as such. These people have proven, that given similar opportunities like their Guyanese counterparts, they too can excel. And they have already started doing so, thanks to the numerous interventions on the part of the PPP/C government, via the many social and economic programmes that are bringing quality changes in the Hinterland communities and in their individual lives.

This specific problem of stereotyping, highlighted by this recent incident, should bring home to all Guyanese, the unfairness and cruelty of such a prejudiced habit, one, whereby, we must begin to seriously examine ourselves as to whether we intend to bequeath such a demeaning legacy to the next generation.