Ground - Breaking ministry

ational Diversity an D s ocial i ntegration is a pioneering Ministry, a Ministry of heritage, inclusion, identity and nationhood.

In 2012, the Government realised that even though entities such as the ministries of Community Development and Arts and Multiculturalism existed, there needed to be a hub for coordinating efforts geared at preserving our heritage that would be more coherent and cohesive, hence the genesis of the Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration in June of that year.

dissemination of information that seek to strengthen our national identity.

• champion the inclusion of diversity in policy formulation across government agencies; identity. The current National Development Policy Framework of Government states that:

‘Our Government will embrace the richness and beauty of our people’s great diversity to nurture a more humane and cohesive society. Unity in diversity will inspire the harmony which is also vital to national progress (Page 5).

In this regard, the Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration was established to ensure that specific focus is placed on, and continues to be placed on achieving these objectives.

The Ministry was envisaged as both a resource and an advocate for the celebration of diversity, nationalism, patriotism, and inclusion and as a critical facilitator of national progress. Additionally, its mandate is to shape the evolving character of our nationTrinidad and Tobago, through citizen education and

Statutory Boards and other agencies which exist under the purview of Ministry include:

• The National Museum and Art Gallery (Royal Victoria Institute);

• The National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago;

• The National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago;

• Inter-Religious Organisation;

• Archaeological Committee;

As a developing country, Trinidad and Tobago must make every effort to embrace our past and appreciate our heritage as a means of protecting and safeguarding our future and identity as a people.

Through its own efforts and those of its affiliated agencies, the Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration will:

• promote broad-based participation in the decision-making and policy formulation process;

• provide support for the observance and celebration of religious holidays and festivals and

• promote and protect all aspects of heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

This is our mandate and we are committed to fulfilling it with the energy and pride which our nation deserves.

Join us, as we celebrate who we are and where we live, Trinidad and Tobago.

Let us all champion our identity!