THE EDITOR: Political banter requires subtlety and a command of language so as to walk that thin edge of double entendre without falling into the pit of verbal violence, libel and defamation. Verbal violence is abuse.

When Minister Camille Robinson-Regis enunciated and pronounced the middle name, Sushilla, of Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the derisive tone, accompanied by the snickering laughter of her followers, came together to signal a message which was insensitive, especially since our nation was celebrating the 177th anniversary of the arrival of the first indentured labourers to Trinidad and Tobago.

We of the Hindu Women's Organisation were in shock as we listened to the varied responses of some that demonstrated intolerance of our multicultural, multi-ethnic fabric.

The response of the Opposition Leader was swift and charged with emotion as she defended her ancestral name, charging the minister with having the name of a slave owner rather than that of an ancestor. The response from the Emancipation Support Committee was that its officials didn't understand how the repeated calling of the Opposition Leader's name led to her disparaging remarks. Meanwhile they were calling for sensitive cultural issues to be left out of the political arena.

We cannot say, however, that we are not disappointed in the Opposition Leader in not taking the higher ground.

Slavery and indentureship colonised our peoples and left institutions that continue to divide and separate. But we have gained independence from our colonial masters for over half a century now.

We implore all citizens of TT, especially our politicians, to respect our diversity and refrain from using words and taking actions that further divide our nation.

May our leaders at all levels be blessed and lead by God's grace.

THE HINDU WOMEN'S

ORGANISATION

via e-mail

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