Dear Editor,
The PNCR, a predominantly black political party in Guyana, was recently thrust into the spotlight when four of its Indian members spoke out against derogatory and hurtful remarks made about the East Indian community during a public meeting held by the Working People’s Alliance. Their words have resonated across the country and deserve unreserved respect from all and sundry. Ganesh Mahipaul, M.P., Natasha Singh-Lewis, M.P., Chairman Daniel Seeram, and Mayor Ubraj Narine have earned the respect and admiration of many for their courageous stance.
In their statement, the four members condemned the speaker’s remarks, which referred to East Indians coming from the slums of India and living in deplorable places like pipes. They argued that regardless of where their ancestors came from, such comments do not justify using them to compare with the speaker’s ethnic group’s current struggles. They called for direct criticism of those who are hurting others, rather than targeting those who are equally battling for justice.
Furthermore, they made it clear that their condemnation of the speaker’s remarks did not equate to an attack on any race in Guyana, including their African brothers and sisters. They understood the context in which the speaker was speaking and acknowledged the unfair treatment of Afro-Guyanese in the country’s apparent One Guyana promoted by the PPP/C.
The statement went on to argue that the PPP/C government’s policies are intended to create different and inequitable Guyanas. The execution of such policies incites and inflames racial tensions, leading to further discrimination and bigotry. This shows that the Indian members of the PNCR are aware of the issues and the parties responsible for causing hurt but maintain that the speaker should not be allowed to brand all in the same category.
The famous four expressed disappointment that none of the other speakers at the meeting sought to address or clarify the speaker’s statements. They called on all political leaders and representatives to speak out against all forms of bigotry and discrimination and to work towards a more inclusive and tolerant society. They understood the power of their voices and sought to use them to create positive change in their community.
Their powerful statement not only showed that Indians in the PNCR have voices, but they also have powerful voices. They can stand up and speak without fear or fright. They can challenge and disagree openly and stand strong even if it is against the odds. They have proven that Indians in the PNCR are not tokens. They are valuable members of the party who will not tolerate discrimination and bigotry in any form. It is now up to the blacks in the PPP/C to follow suit and prove that they, too, will not tolerate discrimination and bigotry in their party.
Yours faithfully,
David Fraser, Esq.
