Strong background checks needed for all people working with children in state care, says Jamaicans for Justice

There has long been a public perception that Jamaica’s most vulnerable children are not being given the care and protection they need. In particular, we seem to be tolerating – or pretending we don’t know – about the predatory habits of older men towards our young girls. It is depressing, and it has been going … More Strong background checks needed for all people working with children in state care, says Jamaicans for Justice

60 Reasons for Apologies and Reparations from Britain and the Royal Family

I am sorry I did not attach the “60 Reasons” referred to in the Letter from the Advocates Network that I posted last night. Here they are. I have noted suggestions that there could have been a petition that members of the public could sign onto, and that would certainly have been an option. However, … More 60 Reasons for Apologies and Reparations from Britain and the Royal Family

The Community Paralegal Programme: supporting Jamaican victims of violence

The discussion about gender-based violence continues in the Jamaican media; in fact, it never really goes away. But very often, those who suffer are not aware that help is available. The Community Paralegal (CP) programme is there to help. It is delivered by the non-governmental organization Stand Up For Jamaica, with grant funding from the … More The Community Paralegal Programme: supporting Jamaican victims of violence

Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network – speaking out on children’s rights

As an “older person,” I always believe we should listen to our young people. Whatever they are talking about, whether it’s the environment, LBGT rights, governance issues, and more, it is important to listen to their voices. Not in a patronizing way… Really listen! We can learn so much from each other, across generations. Moreover, … More Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network – speaking out on children’s rights

We naa ease up! On violence against women and children.

There is something we call a “nine day wonder” in Jamaica. It may be a common phenomenon elsewhere, too. A controversial and pressing matter arises (often a manifestation of a frequently recurring issue that has never been properly addressed – such as this one) and there is a furore on social media, with traditional media … More We naa ease up! On violence against women and children.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It’s a rather awkward phrase to pronounce, but a very important day that focuses on an issue that is often ignored and forgotten. Two years ago, I wrote about this as a “hidden problem.” As founder of the non-governmental organization Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) Jean Lowrie-Chin has … More World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15

Spotlight Initiative Launched to Tackle Violence Against Women and Girls

I mentioned the Spotlight Initiative, a partnership between the Jamaican Government, the European Union and the United Nations, in my last blog post. The initiative was officially launched today at the Office of the Prime Minister. You can watch the recording of the ceremony on Facebook here. Unfortunately I missed the ceremonies, but I understand that … More Spotlight Initiative Launched to Tackle Violence Against Women and Girls

Please Use Registered Nursing Homes, CCRP Urges

A disturbing report in the Jamaica Gleaner recently highlighted the issue of unregistered nursing homes on the island. Here is the response of the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP). Be careful! With so many homes for the elderly unregistered, do check the list of those registered posted below, before making any arrangements for your loved … More Please Use Registered Nursing Homes, CCRP Urges

International Women’s Day 2017 in Jamaica: Gender-Based Violence on the Agenda

The Women’s Movement in Jamaica, in the Caribbean, and I suspect worldwide, is going through some interesting times. This is a world of “fake news” and social media, hashtags and hardening positions. The concepts of love, peace, unity and solidarity are fighting for survival in the TrumpWorld. I get the feeling people aren’t listening to … More International Women’s Day 2017 in Jamaica: Gender-Based Violence on the Agenda