Stop oppressing one another

THE EDITOR: I must applaud TV6 for that historic documentary on Nelson Mandela, which was shown on Wednesday, April 28, at 5.30 pm. Although it only lasted about forty-five minutes, it was very educational. When I heard Mr Mandela say that his stand was not against the “whites” in the country but against oppression, I was inspired to write this letter. It simplifies why he is praised and adored all over the world, for it must have taken an enormous amount of heart, passion and determination to take up such a struggle, especially in an era when white supremacy reigned. However, it’s depressing to know that after all he has done for mankind, oppression is still a dominant factor in our society today. It may not be as blatant as long ago, but the victimisation and abuse of power within government and business is a major cause for concern.

Nearly every day we hear of the wrong doings of the past and present government and see workers down their tools in protest of better wages, but there are so many situations that we have no knowledge of that take place within these places of employment. For instance, in many businesses there are bosses who maltreat their workers, deny them promotion and inject fear into them, which is wrong and inhumane. But what really troubles me is the fact that our ancestors and many past great leaders had fought so vigorously to eradicate oppression, yet we oppress one another for worthless gain. The bible states in Colossians chapter 4: 1; Masters give unto your servants that which are just and equal; knowing that ye also have a master in heaven.

Therefore, we ought to treat every man fairly, for a man may have been born into wealth, but no man was born rich. We also need to remember that what goes around, comes around and what doesn’t fall on us may fall on our children. God forbid this does not happen, but we need to stop oppressing one another. I hope my sentiments and Mr Mandela’s visit would have some sort of effect on these leaders who practise these wrong doings, for it’s my desire that one day we can live up to the words of our National Anthem, and every creed and race would find an equal place in our country.

TERRY COX
Tacarigua