–launches formal probe into issue, urges respect, responsibility in public discourse

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has strongly condemned the reprehensible and deeply offensive comments made by Jennifer Ally on Facebook, directed at the late Adriana Younge and her grieving family.
The ERC, in a press release on Monday, said it is appalled that during a time of mourning such vile and hateful expressions were publicly shared, further inflicting pain on a family already burdened by tragic loss.
“These actions violate the basic standards of decency and mutual respect that are essential to maintaining harmony in our multi-ethnic society,” the Commission said.

The ERC has officially opened a formal case into this matter, and intends to engage Ally. She was requested to report to the Commission to address the content and intent of her remarks.
The Commission sought to remind the public that freedom of expression, while protected, must be exercised responsibly.

“The use of social media to spread hate, incite division, or cause psychological harm, especially in the context of bereavement, is unacceptable and contrary to the values enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana,” the ERC said, adding that it will continue to monitor this matter and act in accordance with its constitutional mandate to promote harmony, prevent ethnic or racial hostility, and encourage respectful public discourse.