President: Continue fight against injustice

PRESIDENT Christine Kangaloo says everyone has a responsibility to continue the fight against injustice, inequality and discrimination wherever it exists.

Kangaloo made this statement in her African Emancipation Day message to the nation.

While slavery was abolished 200 years ago, Kangaloo said, "Injustice, inequality and discrimination continue to persist and adversely affect our society."

She added that Trinidad and Tobago was the first country in the world to commemorate emancipation as a public holiday on August 1, 1985.

"We need to remember that such noble pride has also to be reflected in our intolerance for all forms of discrimination and division."

Kangaloo said one of the best ways to honour the legacy of our African ancestors is "continuing the fight for social justice, treating our fellow countrymen with courtesy and consideration, and contributing to healthy discourse and activism that promote equality and tolerance."

She added this is the responsibility of every single citizen.

Kangaloo said people of African descent had contributed to national development in many ways and cited culture as an example.

"The very African drums which were once banned by colonial authorities, are predecessors to the steel pan, our national instrument, which is today recognised and celebrated around the world."

She urged citizens to preserve the traditions of their African ancestors and emulate the example of their strength and resilience in their daily lives.

"Let us complete their work by creating a nation of which we can all be proud and glad."