A disgrace to smear awardees

THE EDITOR: It is disgraceful to have leaders as well as citizens making remarks with the aim of discrediting recipients of national awards.

The myopia of thought is further tainted by references to political affiliation and, worst, the racial bogey.

Some seem to think we should reflect the diversity of our country by something of a quota balance. They unashamedly expect consideration to be given to recipients' origin over established criteria, which are well established and are not a secret.

The awards ceremony held on Republic Day was truly well executed, with students being given a place to participate for the first time. This follows the Independence Day parade.

While we duly celebrate our performers, none of whom sets out to gain awards, some unsavoury remarks were reported, even up to name-calling or easily identifiable citizens. Utterly disgraceful.

It is said we have no heroes here in TT, unlike other Caribbean countries, but hopefully we will go beyond that soonest, if it's reality more than perception.

The Patriotic Organisation congratulates the awardees as deserving and at the same time respects our political sovereignty. What better day to honour our exemplars.

LENNOX SIRJUESINGH

co-ordinator

JUNIOR HOWELL

director

GLORIA SARGEANT

secretary