CCSL condemns communal clashes; calls on IT professionals to counter

Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) President Yasas Vishuddhi Abeywickrama in a statement said as the national association for IT professionals, the organisation is reaching out to all IT professionals and the general public as a common voice regarding the recent ethnic disturbances and social media blackout in Sri Lanka. 

«We strongly condemn the actions of those who spread hatred, encourage violence, and conduct acts of terror against any community. As such, we request the authorities to urgently intervene and prevent such incidents from ever taking place in the future,» Abeywickrama said in the statement issued on behalf of IT professionals and IT industry in Sri Lanka.

«The IT industry of Sri Lanka today is famous for producing world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and products. This success comes due to professionals like you and many who work tirelessly regardless of race, religion and ethnicity. We are successful because each of us from varying backgrounds works together as one team. By embracing diversity, we can proudly say that Sri Lanka is a diverse land of innovation and ingenuity,» CSSL said. 

«As such, in these turbulent times, we as IT professionals must play our part. Confront any incidents of racial or religious discrimination immediately. Speak about the importance of diversity amongst our fellow colleagues. Do not spread any news without verifying. Most importantly, we must reassure everyone that we are a diverse multi-cultural industry and society. We as IT professionals will do our part to protect our beautiful nation and take it forward to greater heights,» the statement added.