Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) extends Eid ul-Adha greetings to all Guyanese, particularly our Muslim brothers and sisters. Guyanese are observing this sacred holiday, troubled by events that threaten to disturb human relations as the powerful continue to take advantage of the powerless, the gap between the haves and have-nots is widening, there are pervasive human rights violations, and the ever-expanding poverty is making life difficult for most. These adversities of daily life are being inflicted on citizens, by a government, in a country ranked amongst the world’s fastest growing economies.
The pleas of the working class- the ordinary man and woman- for justice, equality, equity and inclusion to become the hallmark of governance continue to be ignored. It’s instructive to note at this juncture in Guyana’s history, the country is led by a person of the Muslim faith. Hence, it is not unreasonable for society to expect he would have been guided by the humanistic principles of Allah to treat all with respect and dignity; principles that are too enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana.
In these trying times our Muslim brothers and sisters have been asked, like Abraham, to show love and obedience to Allah (God) and like him will be rewarded for such demonstration. As the story goes, Allah appeared to Abraham in a dream and asked that he sacrifice his son, Ibrahim. This unselfish act, even though tempted by forces to disobey, was met with unflinching loyalty and obedience.
On Abraham’s way to make the sacrifice of his son God stopped and gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead. Abraham was rewarded for his obedience and willingness. His experience reminds us of the sacrifice of selfish desires for the common good, and of God’s mercy and benefits when we obey His command. This is, thinking of others, and placing our trust and faith in the Most High. And on this and every day, may Allah continue to shine His blessings on every Guyanese.
Happy Eid ul-Adha.