Dear Editor,
I am disheartened to read about refugees dying in the ocean yet again. More than 179 refugees perished in the Mediterranean Sea while crossing for a better and a safer life. Every time I read about the demise of the refugees and none of the major newscasts report it, it makes me wonder whether the refugees have lost not only their country but lost human dignity. My humble opinion is that we have gotten used to this sort of news so much that we can just flip news.
It is unfortunate that we cannot do much from Guyana. We have been made to hear that refugees are terrorists and criminals. It is imperative that we listen to our inner conscience than strong propaganda voices against the poor refugees. We must bear in mind that no one wants to be a refugee by choice. Circumstances have led them to that state. Most refugees are fleeing from war, violence and terrorism. That means they are looking for safety and a better life for themselves and more importantly for their children. This letter might not do any good to these poor refugees but at least it will bring awareness to the populace that there are people on the sea trying to sail to freedom and safety. Some even pay the ultimate price by laying down their lives.
Yours faithfully,
Jerri Dias