Dear Editor,
I read with interest the June 17th letter in Stabroek News which dealt with the categorization of persons described as Very Important Persons (VIPs) and written by Conrad Barrow.
He proposes that this description be abolished.
I take issue with his contention that his understanding of the UN Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 should lead us to end the categorization of certain persons as VIPs.
If it is the same Conrad Barrow I know, I have the highest regard for that family, and believe he is well-meaning.
Second, since I no longer hold high public office. I feel free to disagree with perhaps the well-intentioned sentiments expressed in his letter.
But I believe there is a fundamental flaw in his argument.
Let me refer to the quote from the United States, when he reminds us of the well-known statement that we hold these truths to ‘be self-evident that all men are created equal.’
From early civilization, society felt compelled to accept the idea that all men are created equal.
However, this did not ignore while clinging to the philosophical underpinnings of men being created equal, that it ended there, meaning that it did not address the prowess or achievements thereafter.
It was accepted and wisely so that certain persons who excelled either in the military, political, cultural, religious, sporting, academic or intellectual level must be appropriately recognized and honoured.
That is why the appropriate accolades, titles and recognition are given to persons who excel in any of the above categories.
If in a society, persons who excel are not recognized, we run the risk of society where mediocrity prevails and there is no incentive to excel.
It is unacceptable if the Olympic champions who train and excel are not awarded a gold medal and hence classified as a VIP.
The young boy or girl who applies himself or herself to studies and gains from his/her university high degrees should be specially honoured and considered a VIP.
In the Security Forces, the General or Commissioner or Chief of Staff wears a uniform with badges of rank setting him apart from the ordinary recruit. That makes him/her a VIP.
And so, we must always honour those who occupy positions of high authority.
Mind you, here I am not entering into the debate that we’ve had throughout history, Monarchs and others who have abused their status. I ignore their responsibility to behave in a dignified manner recognizing the sanctity of human rights referred to by Conrad Barrow.
Mr. Barrow’s argument is not new. Recall, in the height of the Socialist Revolution, at one time, Leaders in the East, decided to do away with what some described as the bourgeoisie Badges of Ranks
After a few short days of absolute confusion, where no one knew who to salute and who to take and give orders, the utility of ranking and VIPs was swiftly restored.
What I urge my friend Conrad Barrow to advance is that VIPs should recognize the responsibility they carry.
Yours faithfully,
Hamilton Green
Elder
