Groups reflect on East Indian legacy

In a press release issued yesterday, Paul highlighted the fact that of the East Indians who came, few had the privilege of exposure to formal education.

They however recognised the importance of knowledge and struggled and sacrificed so their children could benefit from an education.

Paul said he believed education had transformed the East Indian community. He then emphasised that these indentured labourers have left rich legacies which assisted them in settling and surviving in a strange land and continue to nourish the life of the whole nation today.

These legacies include family life and values, hard work, frugality, sacrifice, thrift, determination, resolve, perseverance, commitment, courage and faith.

He stated that, “These are indestructible pillars which are needed for the building of the community and nation.”

Rev Paul highlighted the need for all ethnic groups to tolerate the history and positive contribution of other groups in an effort to recognise and to respect each other’s presence in this land.

He called for the entire national community to acknowledge the importance of working towards unity, respect and wholeness within this country.

He added that “we must commit ourselves to eliminating any attitude, tendency or behaviour that would promote disunity, divisiveness and instability in our country.” He extended his congratulations to the East Indian community on the occasion of Indian Arrival Day.

Within a separate release, The Trinidad and Tobago Council of Evangelical Churches (TTCEC), also extended their greetings to the nation on Indian Arrival Day.

They have noted the great strides Indo- Trinidadians have made in the development of the agricultural, educational, commercial sectors as well as the wide range of skills, professions and services they provide.

TTCEC highlighted the fact that key members in the Evangelical/Pentecostal movement are indeed of East Indian ancestry and they have served honorably over the years.

They commended the level of unity amongst the various ethnic groups and expressed hope that this harmony would only increase in the future.