ERC visits acid attack victims, condemns violence, hate

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) yesterday paid a heartfelt visit to the children and teachers who were horrifically injured in a recent acid attack while returning home from school at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara.
The Commission, led by Deputy Chairman Charles Ogle, Commissioner Neaz Subhan, Commissioner Inshan Porter, and Chief Executive Officer Gomin Camacho, offered comfort and moral support to the victims and their families during this deeply troubling time.

This show of solidarity by the ERC comes in the wake of national outrage following the senseless and violent acid attack committed by two perpetrators, which left several innocent schoolchildren and their educators with severe injuries.
In a strongly-worded statement following the visit, the Commission unequivocally condemned the attack, describing it as a “heinous act” committed against defenseless individuals. The ERC also denounced the subsequent acts of violence, including physical and verbal attacks, looting, and property damage which have erupted in various parts of the country in recent days.
“Violence has no place in justice,” the Commission emphasized, calling for national unity in the face of grief and anger.
The visit to the acid burn victims followed a similar outreach conducted by the ERC last Saturday to the family of Adrianna Younge, the young girl whose tragic and untimely death has left Guyana reeling in sorrow. The Commission extended its condolences and support to the grieving family, and acknowledged the profound collective mourning being experienced across the country.
“All right-thinking members of our Guyanese society are united in national grief, and call for justice in relation to the tragic death of innocent little Adrianna Younge,” the Commission noted. “Unfortunately, some are using this tragedy as an excuse to commit illegal activities across our dear country, and to spread hateful content on social media.”
The ERC also highlighted the fear and anxiety that the acid attack has instilled in students, parents, and teachers alike — underscoring a disturbing reality where simply attending school has become a source of fear.
The Commission called for a recommitment to the values of safety, lawfulness, and social harmony, reminding all citizens that no one should have to fear going about their daily lives as law-abiding individuals.
The ERC acknowledged that, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation, there has been a strong and unified condemnation of the recent acts of violence by leaders from various sectors.
“We are reminded, in our times of distress and sorrow, that Guyana is a multi-ethnic society, and our lives are all intricately woven into each other’s,” the Commission stated. “It is only with unity, love, and respect that we can overcome.”
The ERC also encouraged all Guyanese to reject hatred and division, and instead take an active stand in promoting peace. The Commission urged citizens to speak out against acts and rhetoric that incite disharmony, and to support efforts that heal, rather than harm.
On Monday, violent protests erupted across the country when criminal elements sought to cause public terror by blocking roadways, burning debris, destroying public and private infrastructure, looting, and causing harm to innocent individuals.