A significant occasion on the calendar of United Nations days of recognition, Human Rights Day recalls the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to which our country, like many others worldwide is signatory.
This year, Human Rights Day places the spotlight on the rights of all people – women, youth, minorities, persons with disabilities, indigenous people, the poor and marginalized and encourages them to make their voices heard in public life, particularly in the key area of political decision-making.
For us in Trinidad and Tobago, Human Rights Day 2012 falls within the celebrations, euphoria and reflections of our Golden Anniversary of Independence. I am pleased to note that our track record on Human Rights is admirable compared to several countries worldwide.
We are a multicultural society born of untold suffering, indignity and sacrifice; now characterized by a diverse culture, honed through the myriad traditions of the peoples who were brought to our shores.
Perhaps it is the severity of the past which now compels and reminds us to cast off the shackles of discrimination, inequity and inequality, to create for ourselves communities and a country which epitomize the words of our national anthem, “here every creed and race finds an equal place”.
We must continue to move beyond ethnicity, race, religion, class and creed and despite the voices which seek to tear us apart, we must strive for social cohesion and ensure that each member of our community feels included in society at large.
Despite the best efforts of Government, I am ever mindful of the disparity in resources and opportunities which may affect families and communities.
Therefore I reiterate that my Government will seek to ensure, through varied state mechanisms, that the Trinidad and Tobago of the future is one where no one is the victim of stigmatization or prejudice and where everyone is afforded equal rights and opportunities.
We are committed to leveling the playing field and as we move steadily and confidently towards another fifty years of Independence, I give the assurance on this Human Rights Day that all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago will be given every opportunity to pursue and achieve their legitimate goals and aspirations.
Despite the best efforts of Government, I am ever mindful of the disparity in resources and opportunities which may affect families and communities.
Therefore I reiterate that my Government will seek to ensure, through varied state mechanisms, that the Trinidad and Tobago of the future is one where no one is the victim of stigmatization or prejudice and where everyone is afforded equal rights and opportunities.
We are committed to leveling the playing field and as we move steadily and confidently towards another fifty years of Independence, I give the assurance on this Human Rights Day that all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago will be given every opportunity to pursue and achieve their legitimate goals and aspirations.
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