Eliminate the scourge of violence against our children

THE EDITOR, Madam:

On June 23, 2023, scores of Jamaicans gathered in small groups or went about their businesses dressed in black. Simultaneously, a group of private -sector organisations came out in support of a national day of mourning for the ten children murdered in the country since the start of the year and as a show of support for those suffering abuse. The gruesome murder of eight-year-old Danielle Rowe on June 7, the 10th child murdered this year, was the catalyst for the June 23 national day of mourning.

As Kiwanians, we share this concern about the scourge of violence against our children as our vision statement encourages us ... to be a positive influence in communities worldwide so that one day children will wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them and provide them with the support they need to thrive. For nearly a century, Kiwanis has created a safe space for children to learn, experience, dream, grow and succeed through its Service Leadership clubs – K-Kids, Builders, Key, CKI and Aktion clubs in schools and universities.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The measure of a society is how it treats its weakest members.” The protection of our most vulnerable, and in particular our children, is therefore an urgent imperative.

The following are three suggestions if we are serious about ending these insensitive and violent acts being perpetuated against our children.

1. Every employee, in institutions such as children’s home, schools, etc, who will come in contact with children must undergo a background check to determine their suitability, and to separate those with ill intent.

2. A nationwide educational programme, teaching the value of our children to our future as a nation and how they should be treated must be urgently pursued. This educational programme should be aired on TV, radio, social media and involve face-to-face seminars with schools, churches, PTAs, NGOs and other institutions. This educational programme could be the subject of a public-private partnership to involve and leverage the resources in the private sector.

3. We need to revise our laws pertaining to offences against children to ensure they are adequate as a deterrent murder, abuse, and viciousness against our children.

We are at war and must therefore adopt a stance that reflects that the soul of our country is at stake. Money, resources and our will to win must not be an issue.

HUGH REID

Lieutenant Governor

2022-2023,

Kiwanis Eastern Canada and

the Caribbean District,

Division 23 Central – Jamaica.