Racism has no place here

THE EDITOR: Another black person has been shot dead by the police in the US. Daunte Wright lost his life during a traffic stop in a Minneapolis suburb. It is said he attempted to escape. The thing that bothers me is that the police chief said it was a mistake by the officer who shot Wright. Instead of using her taser she mistakenly used her handgun. That can be a hard pill to swallow. You would think a trained officer would know the difference.

No longer can we look to the US to set the example, especially when it comes to respecting all races. Racism is alive and well in that country. I know there are many living right here in TT who see the US as an exemplar for the world. I urge them to take a good look again. They may be shocked what they find.

As a nation, let us forge our destiny knowing what is right and what is wrong. Especially the way we relate and treat each other. There is no place for racism or discrimination here.

Everyone has a role to play moving forward and working together is important, beginning with our leaders. There are times when racism will show its ugly head by the things said and certain actions. But we must all take stock of ourselves. Let’s take a good look at ourselves and do what is right.

Remember the national anthem promises that TT is "Where every creed and race finds an equal place.”

ARNOLD GOPEESINGH

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