Considerable interest in today’s society is placed upon differences in cultural identities. Socially their manifestation in our society seems inclusive. Divali, Eid-ul-fitr and Emancipation are all public holidays in our country. As one line of the National Anthem of Trinidad and Tobago declares, ‘Here every creed and race finds an equal place.’ Despite these aims the citizenry of our nation still operate in socially stratified circles that promote oppressive concepts of different ethnic groups within the society. These factors affect the ability of pupils to meaningfully participate in national issues.
The fact that different cultural perspectives offer its own unique problem places the school in an even more difficult situation. . The relationship between education, religious beliefs and practices can profoundly shape cognitive and affective aspects of individual behaviour of present and future generations of ‘ Trinbigonians’. Provided that an environment can be created where all students and staff feel equally valued. The issue here is how can teachers influence relationships between multicultural communities, the school and the wider society.
Happy Emancipation!
I am always intrigued by discussions on culture. I am of the view that the internet is fast removing the boundaries that identify different cultures. I have observed that our students are rarely concerned about culture when they are on the net. I have visited several schools on four different continents within the last ten years and found that most of the students were all interested in and influenced by the western culture. I believe the internet is a greater force than the teacher and can influence the relationships between multicultural communities, the school and the wider societies. Whether positively or negatively, time will tell.
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