By R.D.

Simply put, domestic violence is more than just one fight. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably is. Domestic violence abuse, on the other hand, can take many forms, including physical, mental, social, and economic abuse.

Domestic violence does not discriminate based on
Gender
Ethnicity
Age
Socio-Economic Status
Sexual Orientation
National  Origin; and regardless of the season.

During my annual walk, I am frequently reminded of the impoverished victims in poor and developing countries, as well as many immigrant communities around the world, who have few or no resources.

Domestic Violence’s Challenges, Revictimization, Blame Game, and Faces

Furthermore, in many poor and developing countries, when a victim comes forward, conversations about the case begin with the victim being interrogated. As a result, obtaining appropriate intervention or medical assistance becomes difficult.

Even more problematic is some people’s re-victimization attitude as if they deserved it.

What caused her or him to be abused?….. Why didn’t she/he leave?

But, it appears, no one ever asked an offender, whether in jail, school, church, or the community, why the abuse occurred.

Many victims, and even those tasked with assisting them, may deflect or minimize, or lack the necessary training as a first responder to create a safe space for the victim. This is why training is essential for reducing potential implicit bias.

It is never the victim’s fault, whether the victim is subjected to forced sexual activities, intimidation, stalking, social isolation, economic manipulation, or deprivation, such as being denied access to medical treatment.

Who are the real victims of domestic violence?

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, both men and women can be victims of this type of situation, but women are more often than not the victims. In 70-80% of cases, men are found to be the abusers of women, and without intervention, the women are frequently murdered..

Domestic violence affects approximately 25 to 40% of men. However, because of the stigma attached to it, this, as well as the perception of weakness, is frequently overlooked.

According to UN figures, 137 women are killed every day around the world by a partner or member of their own family – a total of 50,000 women per year murdered by people they know and should be able to trust; a partner, ex-spouse, or some dating partner kills one woman every 14 hours.

Data is more than just numbers.

According to several academic international journals, domestic violence accounted for approximately 19% of the total burden of healthcare for women. Victims who lost days of work alone cost an estimated 5.1 to $6.8 billion dollars, which equates to approximately 32,000 full-time jobs.

Domestic violence cases account for more than half of all police response calls, outnumbering robbery, motor vehicle theft, and burglary. Many studies have found that even after the violence has stopped, victims continue to use the healthcare system more than others.

Children who live in homes where there is domestic violence are more likely to be abused or neglected, according to studies.

Young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years old are 2.41 times as likely to experience physical violence. Over three million children witness domestic brutality in their homes every year. 

Domestic violence extends beyond the primary victim; it can result in child trafficking from a runaway child who fled a violent home. According to the UN, approximately 15 million young girls are victims worldwide each year.

Beyond the COVID-19 Mask.

Despite the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused anxiety, fear, and frustration, experts have reported an increase in domestic violence cases involving unemployed individuals, some of whom are depressed or have other mental health issues, and where there are ongoing conflicts in these relationships.

Domestic violence is still taboo and hidden in some of these communities that share our roots, culture, and heritage. Furthermore, imagine countless others being abused today off-camera, due to a lack of support, and outdated ideology, for every abuse captured on camera.

Despite the breathtaking scenery and wide-open fields, beautiful shorelines, and white sand, not all victims, including perpetrators of domestic violence, recognize a safe place to go for help.

The lingering shadow and struggle to break free from some historic belief.

This October has provided another opportunity to look deeper beyond gender stereotypes, masculinity, and sexuality, all of which can obstruct self-observation.

Experts also noted that, despite the efforts of a few groups, classes tend to remain in the shadows. They are understaffed, frequently close abruptly, and offenders frequently require the cooperation of law enforcement to ensure that they attend treatment programs.

When treatment programs are available, dropout rates remain high, and victims will use cultural reasons to justify their absence. According to experts, the lack of resources suffocated by poverty can make it difficult to connect families or victims to programs in many Latin American, African, and Caribbean communities, as well as other poor and developing areas.

Fear of losing solely financial support, economic status, racial intolerance, and social stratification; many victims remain silent while navigating the cultural and legal complexities that cause further isolation.

Some regions’ challenges; wrongdoers with 16th-century mentalities; and cultural beliefs that see women’s role in society as property and bearer of their children have all contributed to the cycle of violence.

Some men who hold deeply held beliefs may believe they have the right to control women and that women are not equal to men. Scholars have noted that the dehumanization of black females who were relegated to the kitchen is linked to colonialism, where slavery’s tragic period cannot be ignored.

Even though many people are still suffering psychologically as a result of the colonial tragic past, the mistreatment of some women cannot be attributed solely to that dark period, and we must debunk it.

Is it time for a new treatment program?

Because a victim may not have a visible scar, the nonintervention mentality must end. Many studies have found that even after the violence has stopped, victims continue to use the healthcare system more than others.

Whether in Barbados, Boston, or the United Kingdom, or as a gay person living under a bridge in the Caribbean, being victimized should make no difference: It hurts everywhere, and everyone must work together to develop solutions to this problem, including victims, advocates, providers, law enforcement, and even previous offenders.

Is your community doing enough to bring this issue to light, or should political leaders wear victims of domestic violence on campaign buttons?

Aside from the light, camera, and dance:

Looking back on the HIV/AIDS epidemic, while medical advances made it a manageable disease, it was through awareness and accountability that many communities were able to reduce stigma.

We must move away from minimization, acknowledge and create a more safe space for victims, and hold abusers accountable for their actions.

Our society is becoming more accepting today, with advocates promoting equality, but it has been a long and winding road. Some social, religious, and political groups continue to regard lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender relationships as sinful and morally repugnant.

It is more difficult for a victim in these communities to seek and receive help in an abusive relationship because of their identity.

No, you do not need to be a member of the LGBTQ community or a victim to support these organizations.

Making people aware of the need to change course begins with you and your community. Please use your platform because, while we appear to be closer than ever in terms of social media awareness, we appear to be further apart in terms of helping each other. Keep yourself safe!

BY R.D. MILLER

This, like others before it, is an unfinished canvas and a variety of colored bags:

The covid effect on the pain brush

Many voters and party officials questioned the timing because of COVID-19, but Prime Minister Andrew Holness of the Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) seized the moment, observing favorable poll numbers, and called for an election in the hope of extending and addressing the socio-economic and crime dents that have been inside these communities’ neglected paint shop for many years.

COVID-19 Pandemic, financial accountability, old-new manifesto, but who is accurately counting depends on one’s political affiliation. The COVID-19 fear, easy access to polling places for seniors, or abandoned hope and trust in the system. Many of the low-probability voters who will vote in this election are caught between a rock and a hard place

The long-term economic impact is unknown at this time, as the country and my other locations continue to follow the science and recommendations.

This battle to paint the nation’s next canvas may not be decided by who won the political debates or who has a better understanding of the country’s needs, but as experts have pointed out, the team that is more adept at using social media allows politicians to avoid the traditional method of reaching out to voters.

The reality is that it depends on the color you want to see.

An earlier nationwide radio poll found that roughly 64% believe the Holness administration is corrupt, but that it may be better to manage corruption. They will view these issues through a political prism that is either half-full or half-empty.

This report implies that having these foxes guard the hen-house is preferable. This election is still about what they should have done, what they could have done, what they might have done, what they might have done in the past.

These battles should be about the country’s future, environmental issues, the actual trade deficit, the balance sheet, investments, particularly for youths, education, corrections, training and development, and other key economic indicators for Jamaica’s real economic stability, which will benefit everyone.

Unfortunately, no matter what the circumstances, justification, rationalization, or excuses are, bad things invariably follow when a country’s life is put at risk for personal gain.

Take, for example, the pandemic that I mentioned earlier. Rebuilding will be a continuing challenge for the new leader. COVID-19, economic stagnation, crime, poverty, and, yes, COVID-19 Blame Game Will Get Uglier as this election pandemic is ruthlessly exploited at the expense of people’s lives

This election debates for changing the nation’s economic tires, repainting, refueling these communities, and repairing broken parts may simply come down to which side is telling the truth or is better at covering up the truth as the island battles for its soul consistency looking for good governance.

The only certainty is that the winning party will need a majority because there is no room for compromise, even if the messenger on the other side has a friendly message, and more likely that the losing candidate will steer his ship into an iceberg if down-ballot candidates are on the ballot?

The same cars, dented but in different colors?

Local politics in Jamaica are frequently compared to a contact sport in which only the strongest survive. The economic strain will continue after the political colorful game is over, with injured community players sidelined due to lost jobs, navigating students who may face distance learning in rural areas without resources, and many other camouflage colors that have been blocking upward mobility, from a checked flag to a good finish line.

An incumbent has an advantage, and people may stick to the putrefaction because sifting through political tribalism is difficult, and governmental power is rarely based on real accomplishments, but on personal time served in a cabinet and popularity, resources to paint a better picture than reality.

Whether Dr. Peter Phillips, the People’s National Party (PNP) opposition leader, agrees with the election call. It is a delicate balance to ask residents who have been neglected to buy another ticket for their economic future. Both ships, each with a new soundtrack, argue that better days are ahead while accusing the other of being in the same murky water.

The reality is that any losing party’s leadership will almost certainly lead the entire crew into an iceberg. Even if the messenger on the other side has a good plan, the tribal toxicity in these campaigns leaves little room for compromise.

Sadly just holding the paint brush from the window, it seems; one side is blemished, the other is imperfect, while the oppressed are constantly squeezed from decades of promises, distrust, and ineffective management, as well as a lack of upward mobility, as many argue that only political leaders appear to be the only ones getting ahead.

The color that is missing while leaders shine:

Jamaica will rise and do better, but who will be less tainted, or who will carry a permanent stain, to continue navigating these ostentatious waters, roads, and hills?

When voters are whipped into a desperate frenzy, pitting communities against each other for temporary feel-good, the youths, downtrodden, teachers, law enforcement, public safety victims of crime, small businesses, and the middle class are trapped inside the body shop hoping someone fixes their dents from years of neglect and bumps.

Despite its cultural significance, Jamaica’s prosperity is not the best beat on the street; it is a single unemployed mother, father, sons, daughters, cousins, grandparents, and uncle on the hill debating whether or not to dance because what happens when the music stops?

“”The rhythms may change, but they’re all on the same vinyl,” one person argued.

Many argue that the politics in that country, as well as other impoverished and developing countries, are similar to some aspects of Chinese investment. They come to mine minerals and other natural resources in exchange for low-cost goods. However, little will change.

Unfortunately, after an election, Jamaica, like many other poor and developing countries, is dominated by kleptocracy leadership. Despite coming from modest means and being democratically elected, many of them have amassed massive fortunes.

These politicians use their political clout and clout to amass personal fortunes. Several reports have surfaced of people stealing money and important resources from the countries they lead, including close allies and family members. They govern in a charismatic manner for the people, but when they leave office, they are enormously wealthy.

As some locals have pointed out, the wealthy, well-connected, and politicians are often the only ones who continue to prosper. Many gated communities will claim patriotism and continue to wield political power in order to protect their profit margin.

Scholars have observed that women are under-represented in key positions to make critical changes in elected offices, civil services, the private sector, and academia, not only in Jamaica but in several other poor and developing countries.

This political election will not significantly reduce COVID-19 the next day, reduce crime, create affordable education, violence against women, better medical care, lower unemployment, increase bed space, or provide new life-saving equipment.

As the region continues to navigate the choppy waters, I hope that after these colorful events, everyone can find a color combination to renovate the country. It will take more than party dedication to see hope triumph over fear and reality triumph over fiction on this beautiful island.

Will everyone enjoy and benefit from the finished product?

This battle to paint the nation’s next canvas may not be decided by who won the debates or who has a better understanding of the country’s needs.

Voting should be done for the future, not for temporary jobs or a financial handout in an emergency. What about tuition and school supplies for your child’s education in the long run?

If your participation or reason for running for office is purely for personal gain, the nation’s socioeconomic upward mobility from healthcare, safety, education, and better roads will be lost at the polls.

Jamaica is not without flaws, but it is a vibrant place full of hope and opportunity. Change must begin at the bottom and work its way up. Regardless of which color is elected, the country must deal with a number of ignored rusts that weave a new upward mobility pain for long-term development; transforming the country.

BY. R.D. MILLER

The unexpected call:

The domino effect forced several businesses once benefited from slavery and the institutional discriminatory practices to confront their past. However, many argued that some gestures were not enough as it appears some banks and insurance companies across continents where slavery generated enormous wealth now setting the agenda regarding implementation of any reforms, apology or compensation.

The global reckoning on race relations and discriminatory business practices has caused some noted changes despite previous resistance. Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben’s Rice, and Mrs. Butterworth’s brand changed its logo from 130 years that many argued were racial stereotypes of blacks. Other companies have been taking steps to address hiring practices even more diverse advertising that featured people of color.

Will that be enough remains an open question.

Today’s global racial equity call is not like recent women’s me-too movements when several ladies came forward and spoke up about their experience of inappropriate widespread sexual advances, harassment, and rape by powerful men that have gone un-noticed for decades.

The leadership equation for racial and socioeconomic equity along these shores

Though the Caribbean islands often take a hint from the international media and struck courage. However, the Caribbean me-too for equality, and an economic package to build a better future from its dark past, is more complex.

Furthermore, with reported millions of dollars in debt owes to foreign investors, it is almost like one is in playing in a football game down 3-4 touchdowns, and two minutes before the game ends, and the opponent has the ball.

Can they all afford to protest earnestly for fundamental as for a change in the street; and how do you bite off the nervous hands that are merely sustaining you? But the lack of a massive protest along these shores, as seen elsewhere; does not mean that there is not one brewing especially among the younger generation.

Sure, it is a noble feeling to eradicate 400-years of the colonial chain, laws, and mental debris for equality and equity that has been hitting many disadvantaged communities like a destructive hurricane recklessly causing administrative, economic, and social barriers to upward mobility. This sea change will take more than tweets, likes on social media, or political position, or silence.

Decades of economic and social disadvantage despite few educational and economic transformations, as it sits now, need a new blueprint to reverse not only what was on paper, but to reverse the mental anguish of colonial practices that have caused communities to be stuck at sea without an anchor.

Sadly, it is an uphill battle as some leaders cannot even decide if or where to hold a protest, whom, or policy, structure’ leaders should move or steer this reparation vessel for critical change.

Change can be difficult, but moving forward requires a holistic approach from the youths, churches, community and elected leaders, political alliances through collaborative voices. Who arranges a seat at the head table with the biggest notepad along these shores remains a challenge. Many reports have shown there are wide-spread skepticism and distrust of local elected leaders in several communities as to who will benefit from any mee-too approach

One of the challenges, not all on a similar path, but they are looking dock. Barbados, where scholars noted that colonial powers first docked in the region with the blueprint may have an alternative approach from Jamaica, Haiti still looking for an economic anchor to move several people out of poverty may have a different approach.

Another example, Trinidad and Tobago, where many Indians descendants were also enslaved on sugar, cane plantations during slavery. However, today some see themselves as a prominent part of the privileged class and may embrace a different approach to reparation. Antigua and other islands are still under colonial rule and benefiting directly from the shade of the Commonwealth structure.

Many who share the umbilical cord have a different approach, deep philosophic difference, while some rather remain silent woven in a social class system despite being descendants of slaves while others continue suffering from the lingering legacy of slavery racial inequities. As a result, it seems today, on many of these shores, they invite more discussions than policies.

Based on historians; the Caribbean islands fell under the ruling of a European nation; British, Dutch, and French. Denmark, Portugal, and Sweden also occupied territories in the Caribbean. And since innocent people of color did not have a personal reservation, they established rigid rules and penal laws that transcend into systematic institutional racial discrimination today.

History has informed us, between 1788 and 1838 workhouses in Jamaica, one of the most significant British West Indian colony marginalized its population, and that affected local industries, like finance and manufacturing to progress. Today, many dark-skinned people experience steeper mobility subsequently carries forward even in more migration elsewhere across these shores for better opportunities.

A delicate dance for equity:

Colonial occupation has established a legacy where only a new economical reconciliation path for all that will establish an economic foundation to left people out of poverty. Some argued, perhaps eliminating several debts, financial compensation, but I believe a mental rehabilitation from slavery has to be balanced across these coastlines to reduce decades of a psychological drain.

Many reports have shown that many of today’s buildings, imported goods, and service contracts, ports, and manufacturing own by foreign investors on the shores, which will sit at the reparation table, therefore; me-too may not represent the downtrodden. Subsequently, where does the Caribbean start for social and economic justice for Afro-Caribbean and ethnic minorities who have been marginalized for decades?

Me-too on many fronts absolutely is not about resettlement, re-distribution of land to the poor owned by elected officials, or the top one percent of the rich, removal of colonial images from a local church window, lower interest rates on predatory loans, a new police station to cut violent crimes, and reported corruption or political alliance that only create a stalemate.

The mental complexity

However, openly talking about reparations for the descendants of enslaved people, remain open debate on philosophical grounds like the ocean as to where, who, when any economic wave will approach its shores.

This reconciliation debate is more than a dollar value, social and economic equity, nor can it be the voice of the privileged class, but an economic widespread policy that addresses institutionalized practices that have created a wide gap between the have vs the have-nots.

Today, many wealthy islanders who have successfully attained academic opportunity, business success and can promptly compensate their way into that privileged class often still harbor the colonial bourgeoisie consciousness mentality and a strong grip maintaining stratification, them vs us. Often there is minimization in areas of poverty, crime, poor education, healthcare structural impediments as it appears these poverty-stricken community are at fault.

Conveniently some will yield their financial power to maintain their status> One former diplomat said, “many locals are more foreign minded that the foreigner.” This mentality will stymie any me-too moment for equality.

What is good from the colonial doctrine if it does not eliminate the paralyzing debt, promote manufacturing, improve schools that play a key part in economic prosperity? Many island nations have contributed to the economic power of their once colonial rules, and the economic success they enjoy today.

The hidden rough tide:

An economic collaborative even the ability to travel to other islands for accurate diagnosis and critical medical care rather than waiting eagerly for weeks for urgent surgery or test results will safeguard many lives, and access to good and affordable healthcare represents new me-too respiration. But social disadvantage remains difficult to detect with the naked eye like bigotry seen elsewhere because many bears a resemblance to you does not make it a steady path.

A notable example: Since the COVID-19 pandemic washed onto these shores, it exposed the already poor healthcare system, the ever-widen gap between the haves vs the have-nots, access to decent healthcare, and the major disparities. And if provided local reports that highlight ongoing corruption, mismanagement of COVID-19 funds received, and a system where not everyone can agree on if it is going to rain, or what party is less corrupted in leading these islands; it generates more questions about how to manage any potential reparation or me too question..

This COVID-19 pandemic may leave the shore one day. Those impacted numbers can be disguised as to which leaders telling the truth on the figure of infected individuals, fatality, and the exact cause of death or delivered it there.

What is clear, the internal political struggle goes on, and hidden division between many of these islands that should be working together more than it seems to reverse this decade of ongoing strain from the colonial slavery virus.

The enduring mental impact:

Recently the Jamaican Supreme Court ruled a student could not attend classes if she didn’t cut her dreadlocks and the school did not infringe on the child’s constitutional rights. This ruling confirms that Rastafarians typically remain a social outcast based on an old colonial ideal, and this culture should only be practiced behind closed doors.

Slavery is no longer on paper, the casting of a new fishing net to have a balance dance is still delicate; especially if the judiciary system has holes in basic democracy and cultural tolerance for all? To such a degree, these communities must step back and rigorously evaluate that, “Out of Many One People,” and any other motto after colonial rule.

And if the region conveniently overlooks this pivotal moment for upward mobility despite other systematic socioeconomic disparities, and without the right leadership, I am genuinely terrified they all are naturally wearing the official insignia, and me-too and any other push for economic prosperity represent just a thought.

BY. R.D. Miller

A delicate balance for economic security

What will the job satisfaction rate of these facilities, healthcare systems, and nurses’ scorecards be after this unprecedented COVID-19 health crisis in the Caribbean and other impoverished and developing countries?

According to experts, it is an intrinsic value that protects one’s opportunity to grow within an organization, and an extrinsic value; pay and job security.

It appears that a few of these islands, as well as other regions, could benefit from updated Occupation Health and Safety laws. I believe that the lack of such regulation jeopardizes protection, ethics in medicine, and the integration of their relationships with their patients.

Despite the fact that healthcare is where most possibilities to migrate are, the brain drain along many of these beaches, especially where there is dysfunctional governance and many complaints of corruption and bad management, crosses several industries, not just healthcare.

Sure, government policies provided some monetary relief, and supplies, aided financial markets, and stimulated economic activity as a result of business closures and unemployment, but experts cautioned that it may be too late to keep many of their professionals on the ground seeking a better workplace environment, better-paying jobs, and a better working environment, and security.

However, keeping nurses prepared is more important than a trillion-dollar stimulus package passed by governments around the world. Unfortunately, it will be unable to replace these professionals or the thousands of lives lost on the front lines; of frustration by these dedicated workers some of who also were infected with COVID-19 and become victims of inadequate medical systems. 

The decision to stay, or return

The role of a nurse is just as important as that of a good doctor, a police officer, a teacher, or a safe community. Their presence frequently enables families to return to work or take time off from spending the night on a hard chair waiting for a doctor’s response.

The workforce of a country is a critical factor in its ability to innovate and compete in a global economy. Maintaining a country’s long-term health and socioeconomic stability demonstrates its ability to produce leaders and action-oriented people with valuable skills. You can only do so if you provide incentives to keep your people on the ground.

According to studies, demand from countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as other nations affected by COVID-19, has increased. Highly sought-after working visas, which can lead to permanent residency, have become a one-way ticket out for many. If another pandemic occurs, these nurses will act as a stockpile of gowns, masks, and ventilators.

Many organizations and support groups stand to benefit from assisting many of these young students in migrating from their home country with these critical skills.

Today, a new study of caregiving in hospitals is being conducted; the difficulties in balancing work and family responsibilities, as well as emotions during this pandemic.

After graduation flight back?

You may not realize how many students and professionals are studying abroad until there is a crisis, such as geopolitical turmoil or a pandemic, and then there are frequent reports of residents wanting to return home.

However, other vital areas to a nation’s economic stability and prosperity, such as urban planning, social workers, corrections, counselors, particularly substance abuse and mental health, technology, and sports medicine, are also important to have a robust healthy local economy.

I doubt many local government officials would report the number of students who returned after graduation to contribute in some of the poorer-run countries where there is still a significant gap between the haves and have-nots and high crime rates.

Many nurses will stay along these warm and beautiful shores to avoid the hard winters, but the region must also develop incentives for those who have left to study medicine in Germany, Cuba, the United States, and elsewhere to return.

Looking for a better deal to keep them home:

As experts have noted, the Caribbean Single Market and Economy’s promise of collaboration remains emblematic as the global hunt for talent continues. It appears to be a competition for equipment, and Personal Protective Equipments (PPE) with participants fighting like modern-day pirates as supply and demand became a political sport.

The Caribbean Cooperation in Healthcare will be critical in ensuring that not only CARICOM members, but particularly poor areas, receive adequate treatment beyond vaccination. Furthermore, the current medical system, which has outgrown its aging population, as well as the rising cost of healthcare, must be addressed.

Protecting important medical professionals will no longer be about how robust or ineffective their systems are, how much bed space is available, or how many press conferences are held, but rather about ensuring that the medical system is held to a higher standard in order to reduce potential turnover and ensure the safety of these dedicated workers from infectious diseases.

Additionally, creating a structure that connects job enjoyment and organizational dedication to all parties involved, rather than just for profit.

The reality is driving more flights out:

Concerns about improved technology, supplies, and other equipment to save lives, including newborns, reverberated through these wards prior to COVID-19. Some facilities, according to the claim, endanger both nurses’ and patients’ lives by increasing their chance of contracting an infectious disease.

COVID-19 loopholes and facilities running like an experimental drug with little accountability, according to several healthcare professionals, while pundits praise leaders for their interest in making reforms despite systemic failings on multiple fronts.

These nurses’ future departure is not due to poor leadership, gender equality, or nationality desertion. Few will admit the lack of a good education and there little few investments in research and development. Furthermore, several manufacturing companies have left town.

Unfortunately, the few success stories now face enormous student loans, safety concerns due to high crime, and claims of underpaying with an inadequate support structure to alleviate emotional scarring.

Today, some argued that veteran nurses are skipping vacations out of fear of losing their jobs, which could result in the current wage being reset after years of hard work.

Brain drain is not always about money, but also a better work-life balance (spouses, parents, children’s future), with the hopes of a well-prepared system and organizational management, job protection, and consistency.

They discussed how, while missing their own country, sometimes being in isolated locations, and having some difficulty adjusting to the culture, the benefits outweighed the negative aspects. Most of these packages now include their families, and they have the option to change their status from skilled worker visa to permanent residence after a specific period of time in these nations.

The complexity of care

These countries will have to cover these vacancies, and the migrating talent will hinder the upward mobility of their medical systems. Many nurses, according to business research, make decent money. Furthermore, this is not a vocation that pays well, such as math, finance, science, or a career in petroleum.

They may need to build a system similar to Cuba’s, and while international travel is prohibited, Cuban doctors and nurses have helped with a variety of diseases and pandemics. Caregivers are becoming increasingly important around the world, regardless of their political system or who paid them for their services.

Although there are great doctors in private institutions in the region, there have been rumors that numerous practices have closed due to a lack of resources.

There are reports of little modernization throughout the region, but one cannot have faith in the system if some leaders appear to have a “pre-existing condition” that is a defensive and basic question asked about the number of people tested for COVID-19 muted, but stimulus checks are handed out are published, and dissenting views are seen as antagonistic.

Politics should not polarize or abuse caregivers’ experiences, whether they are imported or local. Their roles are vital and progress beyond stopping by a local store to pave a road a week before an election, handing out some money, and then selling a fake sense of community before the next election cycle must end.

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BY R.D. MILLER

The announcement

Although some variation may not have worked as intended, a recent proposal on February 8, 2020, according to reports, Robert Nesta Morgan, parliamentary secretary in the office of the Jamaica prime minister, announced that an incentive plan was in place or being developed to provide students an opportunity to have their debts forgiven for public service work. It is one of the best imported policy seen in a while to arrive on these shores.

Potential impact

A few times my telephone rang from friends I have encountered while in the region, which informed me they have migrated with their family. And when I asked, “why that side of town?” the response, “my wife is working as a nurse. It is remote, one major department store that carries everything, I miss home, but it will relief her financial burden.”

Their story is one of many across the Caribbean region of residence leaving to Canada, England, the US, and even other Caribbean islands. This student loan proposal should be implemented and be adopted by other poverty-stricken and developing countries who may not at present provide this incentive.

Maybe it is beyond politics

Regardless of the political party, student loans support many people to attend college, graduate and attain a degree for a more promising long-term future and overall the nation’s economic stability.

Though the proposal marks a step in the right direction and; it is not clear on the last details how it will be funded, and that cannot be captured in a few tweets. But like other nations who take part in this program, there are requirements and commitment for individuals to be involved.

Many students on these shores will benefit from loan burdens and may change an appetite waiting to leave if an opportunity presents itself to migrate. However, it requires a genuine debate, accountability, and implementation beyond likes on social media.

Student loan debt burden reality

Evidence shows that student debt jeopardizes the financial wealth of many households and the economy in the long-run not only in the Caribbean, but in other countries.

This debt burden has also contributed to the Black-White wealth gap across the wealth distribution. Other studies have shown that about two in five households now owe student debts loans and that number is increasing.

Student debt has surpassed $1 trillion in the US and the delinquency rate increased to over 50 percent. These studies also showed the suicide rate in the United States rose to the highest levels in more than a decade. I do not know if most of these suicides are 100 percent related, but others noted the negative impact for individuals between ages 20 and 31.

Crunching the numbers before you apply

Going forward school officials should be responsible and encourage students to maximize all options from scholarships, grants, and aids before taking out loans; and career counseling suitable to gain employment after graduation.

Understanding fine prints to reduce potentail problems

Household size, marital status, income levels, and work status can influence these loans; therefore, differentiating traditional loan repayments to this income base will drive that will be important. Students should recognize how the symmetry will work between traditional banks and government loans, but for now, it is a key step forward if created for the correct reason.

Example: Minister of foreign affairs and foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, twitted think this is a great idea worth exploring! 50 percent or 100 percent, 5 years or 10 years; Police with forensic and cyber capacities, Nurses critical care, Teachers (esp STEM)–is this something that would be part of the bi-national commission to discuss? Or examined separately.”

I believe her conversation was extremely significant and does not alter the fact that they also use these loans for tuition, books and supplies, and ongoing expenses. It does not define one hope that this new loan forgiveness as to one’s degree, but an incentive to attract the best and the brightest and keep them. It is like a private corporation giving you a bonus stock option upfront or a reward for your work.

This application should not create other social stratification what jobs are more important to be considered. Attracting and keeping the right workforce will be an economic win-win for the nation. The common denominator should be civic service.

Your commitment

These loan incentives were first developed by officials to compete with the private sector to attract and retain the brightest. It is more than likely that your civil service career will not make one extremely wealthy, as these public service positions often like being a law enforcement officer that is put in a position of authority.

They must dedicate one, physical and mentally fit where pride and sense of duty dictate success or failure. It is a career that helps to maintain a quality standard of living and has a smooth retirement package (hopefully).

Part I– Her Story/Their Story

Today, I highlighted a few names from an ever-growing list of victims and stopped counting. Jezelle Phillips, Gabriella Dunbarry, and Pollyan Chunlesingh are from Trinidad and Tobago.

Somattie Keosoram, Naiee Singh Naiee, 31, an ad­min­is­tra­tive of­fi­cer, and Sharon Burnett, 56, are all from Guyana.

Neville Sinclair fled Jamaica to escape a toxic relationship, Shantel in McMaster in a supermarket shot dead by her lover, Suzanne Easy, killed by defense force Corporal Doran McKenzie, who later took his own life.

Unfortunately, there will be more victims before you finish reading this article; whether you are a teacher, student, wife, mother, aunt, or sister, the murder rates and violent crimes, particularly against women, are high.

Domestic violence, in particular, is a public health concern along many of these coastlines.

Every 14 hours, a victim is killed by a spouse, ex-spouse, or a dating partner. And someone is abused by an intimate partner every 20 minutes. According to experts and the Center for Domestic Violence, domestic violence accounted for nearly 19% of the total burden of healthcare for women aged 15-44..

According to studies, approximately 40% of the Caribbean population considers crime and security issues to be more serious than poverty or inequality in their nations. But also, even as leaders argue these numbers to paint a better picture, the psychological effects continue and that cannot be measured.

Systematic Failures

Authorities frequently lack resources, particularly in rural areas where technical skills to solve difficult crimes could be improved.

Weapons have largely replaced discussion as a means of resolving minor conflicts today. Disagreements can easily devolve into brutal personal aggression and killings due to a lack of resources for resolution. These perpetrators frequently overlook criminogenic risk factors such as anti-social cognitions and behavior. (Domestic Violence-Podcast)

The silence is deafening

Selective amnesia frequently sets in, rendering it ineffective as a strategy; neither minimization nor photo-ops empathy is a strategy; tweets do not elicit fundamental support, and frequent comparison to another country does not provide an action.

Often a sudden visit to a victim’s home is good, but without resources or a quick policy that focuses on getting to the root of the problem, including women’s concerns and the community, is not a long-term solution.

Despite the fact that violence is pervasive, there have been numerous reports of mentally disturbed or racist individuals with easy access to high-powered weapons killing or targeting innocent victims. However, the reported one or two killings per day on these shores add up regardless of location.

It appears that the same record is being played over and over again; we will look for solutions, and where local concerns appear to be drowned out. Furthermore, these atrocities must be solved by apprehending potential serial killers on local streets and in communities.

How many women have gone missing, been abused, or murdered before these latest victims, and their cases have gone unsolved?

Far too frequently, a consistent trend, “The police investigation is still ongoing, while the families of the vulnerable victims seek adequate answers. When is the “Where does the next button stop along these shores, and in many other places?

How many young lives have been snuffed out? Your next teacher, cop, doctor, social worker, or even prime minister could be you. It appears that these perpetrators have taken out life insurance policies, and in order to cash them in, they have resorted to violence.

The blame game

Rapidly accusing the victims is minimization, and the argument that those men kill out of mistrust and poor judgment, and that she should stop complaining about how much they spent on her should be refuted.

Even more problematic is some people’s re-victimization attitude as if they deserved it.

In our society, discussions about these cases frequently begin with an interrogation of the victim.

“She had the option of fleeing the situation.”

What was the source of her abuse? ….. Why didn’t she just leave?

She should flee, but where will she hide in a system riddled with flaws designed to protect their vulnerability? It’s always about what she should have done, not what should have happened.

But no one ever asked the perpetrator as it seems, whether in jail, school, church, or the community, why he or she chose violence

Many victims, and even those tasked with assisting them, may deflect or minimize. We recognize traditionalists, or the “silent generation,” as experts refer to people who were raised to be seen but not heard.

Changing an old ideology

The rise in violence, particularly against women, necessitates a critical examination of the cause, as well as policies to provide more protection and support.

Though laws and women’s rights movements date back to the 1950s in the region, such as in The Bahamas, led by Dr. Doris Johnson. However, several of these laws are out of date and may need to be revised to address current concerns.

Domestic violence is still considered taboo in some cultures on many Caribbean islands, as well as in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. It has a long history of male chauvinistic (macho) status.

Many people still consider street harassment to be normal, and few will admit that it is a serious problem. This behavior frequently escalates into unwanted touching, assault, kidnapping, and death.

Unfortunately, many victims remain in the shadows after being re-victimized, humiliated, blamed, and given little support, even when the offenders are involved.

Women’s and other victims’ upward socioeconomic mobility may have become a threat to some males because she is now independent, confident, and more educated, which severely challenges traditional thinking in which gender roles were defined and she was better suited or relegated to the kitchen.

This violence appears to be following a pattern similar to other places where ethnic, cultural, and religious cleansing has occurred as a result of geopolitical conflicts. Human rights reports have revealed that women are vulnerable and that if they do not comply with orders, many are molested, brutalized, or killed.
 

The cycle, disconnect, and long-term impact

Every year, over three million children are exposed to domestic violence in their homes. Some children were raised with the mistaken belief that if their worried mother stayed, everything would be fine.

However, due to a lack of effective responses, resources, and often accountability on the part of local law enforcement and the judiciary, as well as insufficient training for first-line responders to handle these violent cases, the cycle continues for helpless victims.

These victims’ stories are frequently politicized, deflected, or given little condemnation by elected officials in order to prevent tourist ships from docking, keep hotels full, or simply because they are also indirect victims of the impact or are afraid to speak up.

Getting to the root of the problem

Leaders must invest more resources in community policing, treatment programs, victim services, and youth organizations to identify troubled individuals, as well as in job training and rehabilitation to induce a mental shift in how they resolve conflicts.

Before deploying a vaccine, these local systems must be able to identify criminal symptoms using psycho-sexual assessments.

It is frequently a 48-hour news cycle, guilt, social media bliss, and promises made as if governance could be accomplished in a few characters. Some of your leaders should go back and read their social media promises and what will be arranged, with little or no support for victims’ follow-up.

Confronting violence against women means ensuring that their community remains a great place to live, work, and play, with the ability to provide resources to underprivileged victims, such as food and personal care items, as well as a safe place for victims to tell their stories without being revictimized.

The Barriers

Poverty, inequality, stigma, and polarization make it difficult to provide critical resources such as family or personal counseling. Treatment, victim services such as mediation, or shelters would be possible with intervention. Access to these services, according to experts, would change the course of many Latin American and Caribbean communities.

Unfortunately, experts have noted that some group interventions remain in the shadows, lack proper staffing, and close quickly, and convicted offenders frequently require the cooperation of law enforcement to ensure they attend treatment programs.

Victims continue to use the healthcare system more than others, and for a longer period of time.

Today, it appears that some elected leaders have selective amnesia when it comes to violence, from robberies to ongoing missing students. They are frequently entangled in the complexities of policing, politics, and community.

Vigilant justice on top does not foster vibrant communities. It only reveals a deeper, systemic problem in the community, and people must speak up to reduce violence. “If you see something wrong, report it.”

Part II- Accountability in the Chinese style may help to reduce this senseless violence.

China’s growing global presence has been documented in studies and publications in recent years, with new inroads into the Caribbean islands and Africa. They have seen a cultural explosion as a result of Chinese companies and other recent investments.

These private investments were reported to offer a path to improved economic growth and security.

If the Chinese takeover of high crime islands public safety operations is successful, will it save more women from domestic violence killings and other criminal issues?

Given the Chinese influence on these shores, I reluctantly began to speculate. I entertained some deep thoughts and investigated this trend after consulting with a few experts and friends. To protect their investments, they may offer a more robust public safety strategy.

This idea is less likely because reports have shown that China has human rights issues, such as forcing Mandarin on ethnic minorities like the Uyghurs. However, because they have already invested in and own key areas of these shores, importing another approach to addressing these public health issues may work. This intrusion may result in improved technology and training.

According to scholars, this contentious practice “who are their friends and all their enemies.” If this were to happen, violent criminals would face severe movement restrictions, which is exactly what many victims face in these toxic relationships.

These victims require your assistance.

In these many of these communities, violence against women persists in the shadows. After she gathers the courage to come forward, these victims deserve your support and an action plan.

There is a struggle, particularly on the higher crime islands, to distinguish ideology from policies to combat this malevolent that is becoming more virulent. Even if it reduces the number of children who go missing or are later found dead, it may be worth considering..

The system must improve its assessments and interventions in the areas of mental health and substance abuse. Often, social media only focuses on high-crime areas, leaving rural areas unnoticed. Build confidence for the next generation of awareness by talking about domestic violence. We can no longer blame it on culture, where the objectification of women is still acceptable.

Let us continue to talk about it.

I hope that more helpless victims will receive critical additional support from other women and organizations when they come forward without fear of financial repercussions.