Dear Editor,
Over the years I have been fortunate to travel the world and experience many diverse and distinct cultures. One key observation I have made was the difference in the level of cohesiveness in monolithic and polylithic cultures. The latter showing a tremendous gap in its ability to achieve peaceful coexistence. This phenomenon is not unique to any particular country and when viewed through the eyes of Guyana’s society we should keep in mind that on a larger scale the problematic is not unique. The racial divide in Guyana is but an example of the deep seeded hate seen between those who feel disenfranchised due to their history as slaves vs. other races that have been allowed to develop in freedom. The world continues to demonstrate that greater cooperation can be found amongst those other races which do not carry the anger seen amongst ex-slaves. Given the experiences of the recent past many are of the opinion that it is safer to not venture far from their origins. The news of the progress being made in the Singh murder case may cause increased separation between cultures that have been in conflict since the events of the 1960s. The key question still before us is whether the increasing racial divide in Guyana can be bridged or not. Can it?
Progress being made over the years has been superficial at best, and during times of conflict the true feelings amongst the various races surfaces for the world to see. This has now become a multigenerational issue despite the efforts shown by school integration on a national scale. Our society is yet to have an open and honest conversation on the best way forward for peaceful coexistence. Integration of cultures has been unsuccessful thus far, and may not be worth the effort given the reaction to recent events. In such a polylithic society, peace can be achieved by simultaneously developing the separate factions and cultures within the society. This will reduce the conflict over resources, but many will argue that they shouldn’t be strengthening their enemy. This, Comrades, is one of the main root causes for the racial divide in our society. The solution must come from within our Parliamentary system. Assigning resources based on electoral votes achieved is an approach worth taking a closer look at. The historical pattern seen, has been one of support for the racial base of those in power. The Ali Administration has shown that they are willing to break this pattern with the One Guyana initiative, but the PNC’s reaction to the Henry murders was unfortunate. The nation awaits their support for justice in the Chatterpaul and Singh murder cases, but the silence of key opposition leaders has been deafening to some. There are politicians amongst us that prefer division and rule in order to maintain power. Elimination of this approach starts with unbiased discussion and the addressing of the needs of the Nation in a holistic manner.
However, given the current stage of development of Guyana, some may argue that we must walk before we run. The lack of confidence shown in the judicial system that led to both political racial biases resurfacing and vigilantism illustrates how far our nation is yet to develop in peaceful coexistence. If justice is served in the pending murder cases of Chatterpaul and Singh, whether by life imprisonment or the death penalty, the result must place a firm and clear narrative in the public domain that hate crimes based on race will no longer be tolerated in our society.
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
