The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) joined hands with the United Nations (UN) to launch the “Countering Hate Speech Campaign” at the National Library yesterday.
This initiative, which coincides with the UN’s International Day for Countering Hate Speech observed annually on June 18th, 2024, aims at addressing a growing global concern.
Gomin Camacho, Chief Executive Officer of ERC, emphasized the campaign’s mission to educate individuals about the detrimental impact of hate speech, highlighting how certain words and statements can perpetuate disrespect and even incite violence. The campaign aims to replace negative sentiments with positive and respectful dialogue, promoting a more harmonious society.
From a global perspective, UN Resident Coordinator Yesim Oruç commended the ERC’s commitment to the campaign and highlighted the challenges posed by the internet in spreading hate speech. She referenced the UN’s Strategy and Plan of Action launched by the Secretary-General in 2019, stressing the importance of countering hate speech without infringing upon freedom of speech, emphasizing prevention over restriction.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira underscored the cultural context within which speech operates in Guyana. She acknowledged the need for greater familial influence in instilling values of equality and tolerance among youth, introducing initiatives like the “Giraffe language” and “Lion language” to distinguish between conciliatory and aggressive speech. Teixeira also emphasized that Parliamentarians should give more thought to the use of aggressive language and potential hate speech in the National Assembly, which is live streamed for the public.
Acknowledging the prevalence of hate speech on social media platforms, Charles Ogle, the Deputy Chairman of the ERC outlined strategies for intervention and reconciliation, urging public awareness and education as primary tools in combating this issue.
Addressing the campaign’s relevance to marginalized communities, disability rights advocate and representative of Guy-ana Council of Organizations with People with Disabilities Rosemary Ramitt stressed the pivotal role of youth in fighting hate speech. Her remarks emphasized the necessity for inclusivity and peace across all sectors of society.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry advocated for leveraging influence through marketing channels and social media to propagate messages of empathy and tolerance. It highlighted the correlation between hate speech and social inequalities, emphasizing education and community outreach as crucial deterrents.
At the end of the presentations, the persons present were encouraged to take the pledge and embody the message.
