Port of Spain, Trinidad – The Honourable Michelle Benjamin, Minister of Culture and Community Development has taken serious note of the recent comment made by Mr. Marvin Gonzales, Chairman of the People’s National Movement (PNM), in which he stated, “When I look at it, I wonder if we are living in Bangladesh or Delhi.”
This comment was made in response to Mr. Gonzales raising serious concern over what he described as an imbalanced ethnic and racial composition among newly appointed State Boards under the United National Congress (UNC) led government.
Minister Benjamin has denounced the statement as blatantly racist and fundamentally contrary to the principles that underpin our national identity.
“As Minister of Culture and Community Development, I must make it unequivocally clear, this kind of rhetoric has no place in Trinidad and Tobago. We are a nation built on diversity: African, Indian, European, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and more. Every community has contributed to the cultural fabric of our country, and it is this very diversity that gives us strength.”
Minister Benjamin further emphasised that such comments, especially when made by political leaders, send the wrong message at a time when Trinidad and Tobago should be promoting cultural understanding and strengthening community bonds.
“As a Ministry entrusted with promoting culture and national unity through community development, we are alarmed by the divisive tone of the statement. It undermines everything we are working towards as our mandate focuses on building an inclusive society where all people feel seen, valued and respected,” said Minister Benjamin.
The Ministry of Culture and Community Development reaffirms its ongoing mandate to preserve and celebrate the unique identities and contributions of all cultural groups in Trinidad and Tobago. Minister Benjamin also underscored, “We must lead with empathy, equity and vision. Trinidad and Tobago belongs to all of us.” She added, “We must call this what it is. Racism cloaked in political commentary and reject it outright. Our nation cannot thrive on division. It thrives when we honour each other’s heritage and walk forward together.“
The Ministry of Culture and Community Development continues to move forward, championing a Trinidad and Tobago where culture unites us, and every citizen is embraced as an equal partner in nation building.