Letter of the Day | Let us reject the politics of division
Published:Thursday | November 28, 2024 | 12:07 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
Injustice corrodes the foundation of any society, and racial injustice, in particular, strikes at the heart of what it means to live in dignity and unity. As someone who has faced the sharp edge of racial bias, I know too well the pain of being judged, not by one’s character, contributions, or humanity, but by the colour of one’s skin.
Now watching politicians manipulate race as a tool to divide the Jamaican people is both painful and infuriating. Their rhetoric sows distrust, dilutes the truth, and pits people against one another in ways that harm, not just the intended targets, but the entire nation.
It is especially galling when their accusations are levelled at individuals who have worked tirelessly to uplift their communities, contributing far more to the people of Jamaica than those spewing hateful rhetoric.
To the people of Jamaica: I urge you to see through this cynical strategy Don’t be like the people of America. This division benefits no one but those seeking power at the expense of the Jamaican people.
The strength of any country lies in its diversity, in the collective efforts of all its people, regardless of race or background. When we allow fear and prejudice to dictate our decisions, we weaken the very fabric that holds us together.
People, let us reject the politics of division.
Let us challenge these narratives of hate with truth and solidarity. Let us celebrate the contributions of every individual who works to make the Jamaican society better. Together, the Jamaican people can build a future where unity, not division, defines us - a future where our children and grandchildren thrive without the shadow of racial hatred and racial injustice hanging over them.
This is a moment for courage, for standing together against those who seek to pull the nation apart. It is time to demand better from the leaders elected by the people, and to insist on a politics that unites rather than divides. The power to change this narrative lies in each and every voter’s hands. Please use it wisely.
NEVILLE COOKE
Austin, Texas