ERC proposes counselling for social media woman for racist remarks – ERC

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) announced on Thursday that Jennifer Ally, a woman summoned for making racially insensitive remarks on social media, has expressed her willingness to cooperate with the Commission to address the concerns arising from her public statements. The ERC has proposed a series of social interventions, including psychosocial counselling and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training, aimed at fostering greater understanding, respect, and responsible communication in the public sphere. While the investigation into her remarks continues, the Commission emphasized that these measures are part of its broader mandate to promote harmony and good relations among Guyana’s diverse ethnic groups. The ERC also stated that it will closely monitor Ms. Ally’s future public engagements to ensure sustained commitment to respectful discourse. Although the ERC lacks prosecutorial authority, it may refer matters requiring legal enforcement to the Guyana Police Force under Article 212D (j) of the Constitution. The Commission reiterated its dedication to mediation, conciliation, and arbitration as tools to resolve conflicts and foster social unity. This case follows a similar incident earlier this year involving Daniel ‘Baby Skello,’ who was arrested for blasphemous libel after failing to respond to the ERC’s summons regarding offensive content in a song.