SUBMITTED
Dear compatriots, citizens of Suriname, the recent events surrounding the passing of various former heads of state have placed a mirror on our society. Unfortunately, what we see in that mirror is not the image of the harmonious, respectful nation we pretend to be.
The wave of hate, ridicule and inhumanity that washes over our digital and physical squares upon the passing of political figures marks a low point in our national history. It is time for us, as a citizenry, to reflect on the question: where have we lost our humanity?
“We must hold up a mirror to ourselves: are we contributing to polarization by sharing messages, ‘like’ or simply look away?”
The erosion of decency
When death – the most inevitable and sacred limit of human existence – is no longer treated with silence or respect, but with dances of joy and vitriol, there is a serious moral erosion. Political differences may be fundamental and fierce, but they should never form the basis for the dehumanization of the other. When we lose the ability to see the person behind the official, we lose an essential part of ourselves.
Our religious and cultural heritage
Suriname is built on the foundations of deep religious values and cultural traditions, in which respect for the dead and comfort for the relatives are central. Whether we draw from the teachings of Christianity, Hinduism, Islam or our indigenous and Afro-Surinamese traditions, no source in our rich history justifies the hatred we see now. By participating or remaining silent in these expressions, we deny not only our ancestors, but also the spiritual legacy that has always marked our country as a beacon of tolerance.
Self-reflection as a necessity
The finger pointing at politics is understandable, but insufficient. The change starts with the citizenry itself. We must hold up a mirror to ourselves: are we contributing to polarization by sharing messages, ‘like’ or simply look away?
True civilization is not measured by how we treat our friends, but by the decency we show to those with whom we vehemently disagree. Correcting our language, thoughts and behavior on social media is not a political act, but a human obligation.
A call for reflection and action
We call on every citizen to take a moment of deep reflection. Let us leave the ‘filth’ and the ‘cesspool’ behind and choose a path of dignity.
• Self-correction: speak to your loved ones, friends and fellow party members when they exceed the bounds of decency.
• Humanity over ideology: recognize the human value in every fellow citizen – regardless of rank, position or past.
• Restoration of public morality: let’s make Suriname a country again where decency is the norm and not the exception.
Let’s prevent future generations from growing up in a society in which hatred trumps humanity. It is up to us to restore the moral compass. Not tomorrow, but today. Because a people that no longer honors the value of man ultimately loses its own value. Forward in dignity and respect.
Irshaad Fatehmahomed (DNA member NPS)
The editorial staff of the True Time allows readers to submit articles for publication. In principle, all submitted articles will be included, unless the content is harmful, hurtful or insulting to third parties. Pieces posted do not necessarily reflect the views of the True Time. The editors reserve the right not to publish articles, or to shorten or edit them without taking them out of context.
