Amcham: Include sexual orientation in EO Act

Speaking at the Annual Membership Party on Friday last, Tewarie questioned how as a society claim to be mindful of the needs of its most vulnerable members when there is no formal protection for them. He said if they are to succeed as businesses, then a stable, competitive country is needed and for that to happen, a conscious society has to be created.

“A conscious society is one in which we look out for one another.

One in which we always try to give a hand up.

A conscious society is one in which we stand firm on principles, even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular to do so,” he said. He noted that strengthening the country’s institutions is at the core of a conscious society and boosting productivity.

“Not only do we need institutions that work in a conscious society, but we also need institutions and policy committed to protecting the rights of all people. So I ask, do you believe that all people should have the right to live without fear and discrimination? If so, then that must mean that all people have the right to work without fear and discrimination.

Yet, many LGBT individuals experience discrimination, aggression and sometimes even violence in their workplace,” he said.

Tewarie said victims of domestic violence deserve institutions and policies that work, and so too do victims of workplace discrimination, whatever its form or basis, and they should be able to seek official redress. “The AMCHAM TT Board of Directors has unanimously agreed to support the amendment of the Equal Opportunities Act to extend the Act’s protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation,” he said.

Tewarie urged the Government to do what is right even if it may be unpopular in some quarters. “AMCHAM TT is currently doing a survey on the topic and, thus far, 85 percent of companies which responded support the amendment of the act to protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in the workplace. This is an important national step in not only maximising workplace productivity, but also toward extending the rights that we want for all citizens. If we create a more just society.

A more tolerant society.

A more conscious society, the rising tide which we hope to create will indeed float most boats. This dream of a conscious society is not just an optimist’s dream. This dream of a conscious society is not just my dream. It can be a reality,” he said.