ERC launches Public Diversity Library to foster respect, tolerance

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Monday launched its Public Diversity Library to promote religious, cultural, and ethnic understanding; respect; and tolerance, through literature.

In this initiative, a public library space has been designated within the ERC Headquarters at Peter Rose and Anira Streets in Queenstown, Georgetown to raise awareness of the diverse religious, ethnic and cultural practices in Guyana.
The primary goal of this initiative is to nurture a more enlightened and educated society, thereby fostering respect and tolerance among individuals, irrespective of their religious or cultural backgrounds.

The ERC has said it believes that providing access to knowledge on various religious and cultural traditions can significantly contribute to the development of a harmonious and inclusive society.
During a simple ribbon-cutting ceremony to declare the library open, Chairman of the Commission, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, related that the library embodies the ERC’s unwavering commitment to building a more enlightened and inclusive Guyana.
Recognizing the crucial role of knowledge in fostering mutual respect and acceptance, he said, the ERC aims to empower individuals to delve deeper into the diverse faiths and customs that define the Guyanese cultural landscape.
The Public Diversity Library is open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds from Monday to Friday between 9:00h and 15:00h. It boasts a comprehensive collection of sacred scriptures and texts that explore Guyana’s diverse ethnic and cultural identities.

The ERC has said it extends its heartfelt gratitude to the numerous organizations that generously contributed to the library’s collection, including The International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG), Every Home for Christ Guyana, the Brahma Kumaris, the Science of Spirituality Meditation Centre, the Arya Samaj, and the National Spiritual Assembly of Baha’is of Guyana. Their invaluable contributions have laid the foundation for the library’s continued growth, and have enriched the learning experience of all visitors.
The ERC has said it is warmly inviting the Guyanese public to embrace the wealth of knowledge and understanding offered by the Public Diversity Library. Whether persons are seeking to deepen their faith, broaden their perspective, or simply connect with fellow citizens from diverse backgrounds, the library provides a welcoming space for exploration and dialogue.