Dear Editor,

Discrimination has always been part of the development of societies.

Those who temporarily wield power in a culture of discrimination are frequently emboldened to conduct acts of spite and malice arbitrarily. Interestingly, those who act in this atmosphere oftentimes instruct their subordinates to carry out their corrupt duties.

Discrimination is any unfair treatment based on a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin, or economic status. Discrimination may be an isolated event affecting one person or a group of people similarly situated, or it may manifest itself through harassment or abuse of authority.

Abuse of authority is the improper use of one’s position of influence, power, or authority against another. This includes situations in which the person in question uses his/her influence, power, or authority to arbitrarily influence the career or employment conditions of others under his/her command.

Abuse of authority happens on a daily basis, the problem is, most times, this is difficult to prove or is not investigated. Employees need to reclaim their voices and speak out regarding this form of discrimination that is pervasive within the workspace.

We live in a society in which people tend to poke fun at human rights abuses. Unfortunately, it is only when we, or our loved ones, are impacted we realise the importance of embracing the tenets of human rights. The narrative surrounding human rights needs to change. A more inclusive approach is required in order to bring the society together.

The post-trade union era has not been one without industrial relations conflicts. The rights of workers continue to be breached and discrimination in the workplace festers.

A significant part of the problem we face in Caribbean societies is grounded in the length of time it takes for the wheels of justice to turn. As a result, many employees do not report cases of discrimination and unfair work practices and prefer to walk away. This attitude of submissiveness is problematic and is far removed from that indomitable spirit of our ancestors.

Those who abuse their authority do so in a web of intimidation, interference, and isolation. These tools are strategic and are meant to break the will of that employee who has been targeted.

We, therefore, must recalibrate and rethink our positions and become more vocal concerning abuses in labour relations. It is only by strengthening labour rights that we can expect to see significant changes not only in workplace attitudes but also in labour relations in both the public and private sectors.

In the words of Bob Marley, “Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights. Get up, stand up, don’t give up the fight.”

Wayne Campbell

waykam@yahoo.com

@WayneCamo