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The concept of tolerance, often hailed as a virtue, is increasingly being scrutinized for its underlying implications. While tolerance is commonly understood as the act of enduring something or someone one dislikes, it often carries an implicit sense of superiority. This perspective, deeply embedded in societal norms, raises questions about its true value and impact on marginalized groups. The author of this commentary argues that tolerance, as it stands, perpetuates a hierarchical mindset, where the tolerator assumes a position of dominance over the tolerated. This dynamic undermines the dignity of those on the receiving end, reducing their existence to something merely ‘endured’ rather than respected or embraced. The commentary draws on academic research, including a study by Verkuyten, Yogeeswaran, and Adelman, which highlights the negative psychological and social consequences of being tolerated. These include threats to self-esteem, belonging, and identity, as well as perceived injustices and social withdrawal. The author also references a Belgian report on LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing that marginalized communities seek respect, not mere tolerance. The piece concludes with a call to move beyond tolerance, advocating for acceptance, cherishing, and embracing diversity. It urges readers to reflect on their own attitudes and strive for a more inclusive and empathetic society. The commentary also advises consulting mental health professionals for deeper insights into the complexities of these issues.

In a significant crackdown on illegal quarrying, a multi-million dollar operation in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, was halted on October 9 by a strategic police intervention. The operation, which had been ongoing for months, involved the unauthorized extraction of minerals from state lands, causing extensive environmental damage. The quarry operator, who had previously resumed activities despite an earlier shutdown in July, was arrested along with 18 employees. Charges were filed on October 11 for processing minerals without a license. The illegal site featured advanced equipment, including conveyor belts, rock-crushing machinery, and a fully air-conditioned concrete building. The police are now investigating the operator’s real estate portfolio, suspected to have been funded by the illicit profits. The operation not only stripped valuable resources but also devastated a pristine forest and endangered local wildlife. Legal quarrying requires licenses, royalty payments, and site rehabilitation bonds, but the absence of national remediation efforts has left small organizations to address the environmental fallout. Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro’s decisive action signals a commitment to protecting Trinidad and Tobago’s natural heritage. However, without stricter legal consequences, illegal quarrying will continue to exploit state lands, highlighting the need for robust enforcement and judicial follow-up.

In a significant development for Tobago, Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro announced a remarkable 300% decline in homicides on the island. Speaking on the Tobago Updates morning show on October 10 during his first official visit, Guevarro revealed that while Tobago recorded 24 or 25 homicides at this time last year, the number has dropped to just six this year, with four of those cases already solved. Guevarro attributed this success to the strategic leadership of Tobago commanders, including ACP Oswain Subero, head of the division, Snr Supt Earl Elie, and other senior officers, who implemented a comprehensive ‘all of Tobago’ approach to crime prevention. However, he emphasized that crime-fighting is a collective responsibility and urged Tobagonians to remain vigilant and avoid becoming soft targets for criminals. Guevarro also highlighted the police’s proactive use of preventative detention powers under the ongoing state of emergency, with 79 orders executed and 46 still outstanding. Additionally, he praised the school-oriented policing initiative introduced in high-risk schools in September, noting its positive impact in reducing violence through a softer, more engaging approach, such as officers playing badminton and fixing ties with students. During his visit, Guevarro met with Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine to discuss crime-fighting and security strategies. Guevarro’s appointment as police commissioner was unanimously approved by Parliament on June 13, and he officially assumed the role on June 18.

Anderson Zoe, a sports and physical education teacher at Matelot Community School, is among the six candidates competing for the presidency of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA). The election, scheduled for October 14, marks Zoe’s first foray into the TTUTA campaign trail. He is running as an independent candidate, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in the union’s leadership to empower teachers and address their concerns more effectively. Zoe’s campaign focuses on fostering greater teacher involvement through town hall-style meetings, both in-person and online, where educators can voice their opinions and propose solutions. He also highlights the importance of confidentiality for those who prefer private discussions. Zoe’s platform is primarily promoted through social media, as he funds his campaign out-of-pocket, describing it as a ‘weak financial campaign’ but one that has garnered significant support from teachers. Born and raised in Matelot, Zoe has a strong educational background, including studies at Valsayn Teachers College and the University of the West Indies. He is also a certified mediator and sports administrator. Zoe’s candidacy is driven by his belief that the union’s leadership has failed to address critical issues such as salary upgrades, promotions, allowances, and Unimed insurance. He also stresses the need for TTUTA to play a more active role in addressing school violence, advocating for a collaborative approach between the union and the Ministry of Education. Zoe urges teachers to vote for the change they wish to see in the union.

Trinidad and Tobago is facing a harrowing surge in violent crime, with seven murders recorded in just 24 hours in the eastern quadrant of the island. This alarming spike has pushed the weekly homicide count to 20, marking the bloodiest week of the year. The nation, already shaken by recent high-profile killings, including the triple murder of a family in Friendship Village and the ambush of a Chaguanas businessman, is now under heightened tension as the state of emergency (SoE) enters its 84th day. Despite the SoE, which was declared on July 18 and extended by Parliament for an additional 90 days, the relentless wave of violence continues to escalate. Social media and opposition politicians have expressed outrage, with some calling for a ‘state of extreme emergency’ to address the crisis. Former national security minister Marvin Gonzales criticized the government’s approach, stating that the root causes of crime, such as unemployment, gun trafficking, and judicial stagnation, remain unaddressed. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement but emphasized ongoing anti-crime operations. Meanwhile, the discovery of missing businessman Imraz ‘Clubs’ Ali’s body and a series of other brutal killings have further deepened public despair. The government’s promise to reduce crime within six months has yet to yield sustainable results, leaving citizens increasingly fearful and disillusioned.