Dear Editor,
The Terror and the Time which was written by the late great Dr. Roopnaraine should be included as compulsory material in the history syllabus in all of our schools. It is a great account that showcases the history and the impact that our founders have had on our country. It is also a clear reminder of what we as a nation have gone through to gain our independence and freedom. The struggles of our people, which are clearly portrayed in this film should always be remembered and be a guide to those in government.
As a nation, which overcame oppression and colonialism, we must remember that there is no place for leaders who embrace the ways of our past oppressors. There is no place for those who exploit the have nots to enrich those few who already have more than their share. As a people we have come too far to continue to struggle unnecessarily in a land of plenty. We have sacrificed too much to have those seeking the approval of our previous oppressors continue to give away our patrimony and resources. We saw it during the time of dictatorship and betrayal, and we see it now during this period of plenty. The resources of our homeland are for the benefit of all Guyanese. We must not put our fellow countrymen and countrywomen in debt so they can provide for their families. We must not restrict access to opportunities, and most importantly we must not allow strangers to come into our land and exploit us.
For years our citizens have spoken up concerning the exploitation occurring in the extractive sector. Our gold is primarily benefiting those from abroad and so is our oil and bauxite. In this land of plenty every Guyanese should be able to wear gold in safety and dignity. Every Guyanese should be able to easily afford gasoline and the safe byproducts of the oil and gas sector. Every Guyanese should be able to see the bauxite of our nation converted into value added products that are used in the construction of their homes and the construction of our roads. We do not need more of the have and have not mentality that has plagued our land with exploitation since the time of Christopher Columbus.
Humility and contentment must take root and greed must be uprooted. Those who prefer greed and a quick buck must be rejected at the polls, and those who seek justice and equality must be embraced. This will help each of us securely build a dignified, successful and lasting future for our families without others being sidelined and unable to do the same. Success is not only for the few to access, but a right that should be available to all. My fellow Guyanese, we are upon a path that has come to a crossroad. One leads to an ever-increasing gap between the few who have and the masses who do not. The other leads to shared prosperity, where each man, woman, and child has equal access to the opportunity to safely prosper. A path where our nation’s resources and strength are used to build our nation first and foremost. Where the ways of the oppressors are rejected and neglected. Where the ways of cooperation and camaraderie are embraced and used to build mutual success. We must as a people decide which path we will take.
Understanding and remembering our past and the struggles that have got us this far will help every Guyanese make the best choice for his or her future. For this our nation should always be grateful to Dr. Roopnaraine and his team that were able to capture the spirit of our fight for independence and freedom in the film The Terror and the Time. May he rest in peace.