Indigenous people in the public service face discrimination
Dear Editor,
Being a native Public Sector employee is interesting to say the least. Politically, the two main ethnic groups have their split. The political representatives of the indigenous people must always align with one of the major political players. In the end, the political body eats them and they are reduced to party driving.
First, native workers have to work twice as hard to prove themselves. This is because at executive, middle and senior management levels perceptions of “the Buck Man” lie. I know of colleagues who have excellent records of contributions, who gain varied experience, and who are academically qualified for well-developed portfolios and yet are excluded.
Discrimination can be obvious, but it can also be difficult to recognize. One of the most common causes of employment discrimination involving indigenous people is unfair pay. Research will show a significant racial earnings disparity in many sectors between top race workers and native workers with similar skill sets. Indigenous people may also be turned down for jobs for which they are qualified or ignored for promotions.
The fate of the indigenous workers is turning into the political fate of the ethnically elected Government. This is evidenced by the lack of diversity in the interview panels for promotions in most Public Sector Organizations, more so semi-autonomous agencies. This pays tribute to the subtle and frank discrimination that occurs to my native brothers and sisters.
All governmental agencies should have intervention, and do the right thing in promoting the careers of indigenous workers who, despite their race, deserve.
Truly,
Name Provided