National Conversation on Ethnic Relations

Dear Editor,

The Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), in collaboration with the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator and the University of Guyana (UG), will begin a National Conversation on Ethnic Relations on December 14 and 15, 2020.

The general intent is to have frank and open discussions to capture diverse views, on factors that impede ethnic harmony and recommendations for the compilation of a report, to be submitted to the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders for implementation.

The conversation will be launched with a general discussion on “How can we improve ethnic relations in Guyana”. The fully virtual forum, unavoidable due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, is intended to facilitate presenters drawn from Guyanese residing here and abroad and will reflect diversity.

Both, H.E. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, are invited to address the opening segment which will also include presentations by General Bishop, Reverend Dr. John Smith, Chairman of the ERC, Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, UN Resident Coordinator and UG Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin.

From 6-8pm on the first day, a special segment will be held to facilitate the views and recommendations of young people. This is vital to this process especially since they represent the largest bloc of our population. Guyanese are invited to participate and the links to join, will be provided in advance.

The Commission also intends to live stream the event with some aspects for broadcast on National Television. The ERC hopes that the varying points of view of presenters and participants, can serve in some measure, as a blueprint for possible solutions on the related challenges that confront our people in this multi-faceted society.

Yours faithfully,

Shiv Nandalall

Head, Public Education &

Awareness Unit (ag)

Ethnic Relations Commission