ERC employs Paramakatoi residents

In a significant outreach effort, Commissioners and staff of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) traveled to Paramakatoi, Region 8 on Thursday 28 November 2024 to engage with residents and share the mandate of the Commission.

According to a press release, this marked the ERC’s first visit to Paramakatoi
since its reconstitution in March 2023.

It was lively and interactive stakeholder engagement that allowed the Commission to connect directly with the community.

The release said residents from surrounding areas including Bamboo Creek, Bashville and Taruka gathered at the Paramakatoi All-Purpose Hall for the one-day event.

The session was chaired by ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack with Commissioners Mr. Norris Witter, Mr. Deon Dick (Ras Khafra), Ms. Chandrowtie Sarran, Executive Director/Secretary, Gomin Camacho and other ERC
staff members.

As outlined in Article 212 of the Constitution, one of the main functions of the Ethnic Relations Commission is to conduct public education and awareness initiatives, ensuring that all communities are informed of the roles and responsibilities of the Commission.

Stakeholder engagement in Paramakatoi provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, with ERC representatives listening to residents’ concerns while providing clarity on the Commission’s work.

During the session, President Shaikh Moeenul Hack emphasized the importance of dispelling misconceptions about people of Amerindian descent and urged participants to reject the use of derogatory or incorrect terms.

Although some issues raised are outside the ERC’s mandate, the Commission has assured residents that they will be forwarded to the relevant authorities for further action, the statement said.
The engagement also served as an opportunity to educate stakeholders on the current makeup of the ERC and its broader mandate to promote national harmony and promote good relations among all ethnic groups in Guyana.

As part of the outreach, ERC representatives also engaged with students from Paramakatoi Primary and Secondary Schools, imparting valuable lessons on respect, peace and tolerance.

“These sessions reinforced the Commission’s commitment to promote positive values ​​and understanding among young people,” the statement said, adding that thanks to the generous donation from His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, ERC was able to distribute toys to over 300 children, adding a festive touch to the visit.

In addition, more than 200 young people received school supplies, courtesy of them
Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG).

Given the remoteness of the location, residents expressed their deep appreciation for the signs of joy and happiness the team brought
community.

The release said that to date, the ERC has successfully engaged with stakeholders in all ten administrative regions of Guyana, with some regions being visited multiple times to ensure broad and inclusive participation.

The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to promote tolerance, combat discrimination and promote peaceful coexistence in Guyana, he added.