Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my thoughts regarding President Irfaan Ali’s recent interview with Trinidad’s CNC 3, where he addressed the issue of discrimination by showcasing two members of his public relations team, one Afro-Guyanese and one Indo-Guyanese. I found this display to be intellectually challenging for a head of state in the context of Guy-ana’s diverse demographic makeup.
Guyana is renowned for its cultural diversity, with a population that reflects a mosaic of ethnicities. According to data from January 2022, Indo-Guyanese constitute the largest ethnic group, accounting for approximately 40% to 44% of the population, followed closely by Afro-Guyanese at around 30% to 36%. Additionally, Amerindians and those of Mixed-race heritage make up approximately 10% and 20% of the population, respectively. While these figures are approximations and subject to variation depending on the data source and methodology employed, they underscore the rich tapestry of ethnic identities that comprise the nation of Guyana.
For this reason, President Ali’s decision to showcase the two main races as an example of diversity within his administration during a high-profile interview was a poor example of eradication of discrimination. By featuring individuals from only two racial backgrounds, he not only missed the salient point of diversity within the people he leads but also underscored the myopic importance of embracing differences as a strength rather than a source of division. In a society as diverse as Guyana, it is imperative that leaders are genuinely invested in promoting inclusivity and equality. President Ali’s actions serve as an example of how leadership is falling short of fostering a culture of respect and appreciation for all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or background.
As Guyanese navigate the complexities of a multicultural society in the 21st century, it is essential that stakeholders continue to uphold the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion with the depth of authenticity that such an issue requires. President Ali’s demonstration of inclusivity was a step in the wrong direction; therefore, I hope to see him communicate future initiatives with gravitas.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard
