Let’s teach our children tolerance

THE EDITOR: In a message marking International Day of Tolerance on November 16, 2004, Citizens for a Better TT (CBTT) pointed out that tolerating the differences of others did not mean that we had to give up our cultural and religious traditions. This world will be a better place if we learn to appreciate the differences of others. That’s why it’s important that we encourage a tolerant attitude in our children and treat others well, so that our kids will follow in our footsteps. If we are sensible and God-fearing parents, we will always give our kids opportunities to play and work with others so that they can learn that everyone regardless of gender, religion or race has something to contribute to society. Tolerance does not mean that we should put up with unacceptable behaviour.

Lying, stealing as well as other behaviours that disrespect or hurt others must not be tolerated. Tolerance means treating others the way we will like to be treated. We must learn to tolerate people’s ethnic and religious differences as well as their physical and intellectual disabilities. Tolerance means valuing differences, bridging cultural gaps and rejecting unfair stereotypes. We need to recognise that religious tolerance means extending religious freedom to people of all religions, even though we disagree with their beliefs and practices. People should also have the right to believe, worship and witness as they wished. Remember that a nation will never be at peace without peace among the religions.

HARRACK BALRAMSINGH
La Romaine