Viscous attack on teachers! Teaching meeting its demise?

It wasn’t too long ago that the Minister of Education announced that there will be no hiring of ‘new’ teachers. While I struggle understand what the Minister meant by the word ‘new,’ I noticed that enrollment of new students at our teachers’ colleges has decreased significantly. When I was accepted into college, the number of students who came to do interview was over 200. The consecutive batch was about that number; however, only about 80 students actually enrolled and if one should do the math, that is a 60 per cent decrease in enrollment. The decrease came was after the Minister made the announcement. I am wondering if teaching is slowly meeting its demise.

Whatever the case may be, teaching has lost its value and quality. The perception that is embedded in the now status quo, is that teaching is a last resort. In recent times, teaching has been battered by the system. If my memory serves correctly, I think there has been a wage freeze since 2009. The pay isn’t that attractive. In Finland, teachers are paid and seen in the same light as doctors and lawyers. They have access to world class resources which is used to enhanced teaching and learning. But if teachers are to be paid like doctors and lawyers, would that mean that the entry requirement for teachers has to increase along with the period of study? Is it the amount of CAPE or CSEC you have which makes you a good lawyer or doctor?

Then there is the suggestion that teachers should be paid by performance. Why? Is the Cabinet Ministers being paid by performance? It does not take rocket science to know that this performance pay system is unfeasible. What would be used to measure performance? In light of teaching and learning, what does Lev Vygotsky, Jean Piaget, and other theorists has to say? The many factors that affect the teaching and learning process, how does that factor in? Those who are oblivious of what takes place in the teaching and learning process should keep quiet. Knowledge should inform policies and not the lack thereof. A scientist will tell you that in order to measure both qualitative and quantitative outcomes of an experiment, there has to be a control group which is exposed to same conditions as the subject being measured. Even a simple mathematics topic like measurement shows why it is impractical.

Finally there is the notion of failing teachers, and it is such notion that caused the performance pay system to awaken. When a school receives students in which over 60 per cent of the students’ averages are below 50 per cent, which some cannot read, what are the teachers to do? Non-traditional high schools receive the ‘what left’ of the system and those in their ignorance ready to criticize the teachers and the schools oblivious of the fact that the problem is not with the high schools but primary schools. No student should be enrolled in high school and cannot read; that’s rubbish! If the foundation is not set properly it is almost impossible to get the building process correct. Can you build a house on sand and expect that when rain fall it won’t sink? Teaching is meeting its demise and no impractical policy or cliché notions won’t help.

Pedophiles are the problem, not shift system

Following the death of 13-year-old Aliesha Brown, the Principal of Muschette High School called for an end to the shift system, which seems to suggest that it is a contributing factor to the death of Aliesha Brown. In an article in the Observer the Principal stated that, “The system again failed this young lady on the basis that she had to be out that early to get to school that starts at 7:00 am. And that is a good thing. One should always strive for punctuality. It's a good trait, it's a life skill but the point is we are no longer living in a safe Jamaica and for us to have our children exposed to that level of threat so early in the morning, I feel that we have failed them.”

One of the things we ought to understand is that the shift system in of itself is a failure to our nation’s children independent of safety. As such, such mechanism should not be in place initially. However, on had to understand that such system was put in place due to the lack of space available at these institutions compared to the number of students attending. Consequently, it would not be easy to abolish such system bearing in mind the aforementioned reason why it was in place. One of the greatest disadvantages is not so much that it is poses as a means of danger to students but that is limits the amount of content that students are able to received.

I believe though, that in the case of Aliesha Brown, the problem is not solely the shift system, but these pedophiles out there that are preying on our children. Regardless of what system in place, whether shift or day school, these perpetrators will find some way to attack and destroy our children. Think of the two other bodies that was found in the Martha Brae River some time ago, where two children who were missing (10-year-old Meleeka Mitchell, and 12-year-old Omari Sterling). Additionally it was reported that the female was sexually assaulted and subsequently murdered. This problem is much bigger than merely deficiencies in the shift system.

It more so significantly relates to a deeper social context that is predominantly becoming a plague unto our nation. It stems from a breakdown in family structures and morality in general. Parents ought to be more involved in their children’s lives; know their friends, know what is going on in their lives and employ measures to adequately monitor their children. Times are not safe anymore and as such, we encourage children to walk in groups and never to go somewhere without telling anyone. We ought to tell them that they are not talk to or entertain strangers. They are not too old for that. We need to go back to the days where family values are seen as priority and are uphold. We need to go back to the days where we embraced the ideology that it takes a village to raise a child. Moreover, we ought to identify, locate and eliminate the pedophiles by whatever means necessary.  

Congrats to Church Teachers' College, now at 50!

As  a student at Church Teachers’ College: Mandeville, I wish to use this medium to show my deepest appreciation that the college had overcome various milestones and is now celebrating its 50^th anniversary under the theme, “Church Teachers College, celebrating fifty years of excellence, repositioning for the future.” Indeed, the college had made a significant contribution to education, producing teachers who are of high quality and who demonstrate professionalism to the highest degree.

The college has a vibrant history, one that I wish to share with members of the public who may not know. The College began in September 1965 as Mandeville Teachers' College, with 75 students, twenty-four of whom were men.  The institution was established with the blessing and authority of the Rt. Rev. Percival Gibson, then Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Jamaica.  The moving figure to obtain the facilities for a College of Education in Mandeville at that time was the Rt. Rev. Benjamin Vaughan, Bishop of Mandeville. He was the first chairman of the Board of Management, and he ensured that benefactors like the Kerr Jarrett family, Dr. Herbert Morrison and the Ministry of Education were convinced of the value of the College to the community and the island in general.  Bishop Vaughan remained a faithful friend and benefactor of the College until his death in 2003.

Over the last 40 years, the College has achieved high academic honours.  It has won awards for its performance in Mathematics, English and other subject areas in the final JBTE examinations.  It has produced J.J. Mills scholars, and graduates who have proceeded to excel in higher University Degrees and work in Universities in Jamaica, Canada, the United States of America, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.  A number of outstanding past students have been appointed Principals of schools and are performing very well.  A number of others have become ministers of religion, lawyers, etc., and hold very responsible positions in Jamaica and the wider world.

Perhaps the most outstanding achievement of the College has been in its development of human resources and scholars with a love for community Service.  As early as 1967 when schools in Portland and Hanover were closed for the lack of teachers, graduating students from Church Teachers' College: Mandeville volunteered to re-open closed schools and so provide hope for those bereft communities.  Over the years, through its clubs and societies, and through its Physical Education Department, the College has continued to offer assistance to Children's Homes, the mentally and physically challenged, and schools which need help to organize and run sporting events.

Over the course of the year, the college will host a number of events. This Monday September 29 2014, the college was on Smile Jamaica TVJ. On October 1, the college had a media launch and a parade in the town of Mandeville. On October 5, the college had its commencement service and the launch of its 50^th anniversary year of activities. Kudos to a very gifted, dedicated and talented Academic Staff, and a co-operative Administrative and Ancillary Staff, continue on the path of service.

The "cliches" of the critics

The CXC results are now out, and the Ministry of Education reported that there are improvements in core subject areas but it is still not “good enough.” I remembered last year, I had a friend who was sitting CSEC mathematics, very good friend. I questioned him on core topics that I know will come on the paper and he was clueless. I sat with him a few days I went through some core topics that he was oblivious about and he later informed me that he got grade 3. I was happy I could help.

Prior to students receiving their results, teachers, parents and students were anxious. Students were anxious to see their grades, parents were anxious to see the end result of their years of ‘investments’, teachers were anxious to see the aftermath of their many efforts, hours of extra classes, retreats, camps, seminars etc. The results came out and I can only imagine the mixed emotions sparkling around, from happiness, to sadness, tears of joy, to tears of disappointment.

I know that many schools congratulated all those who have done well, from those who got the nine, ten distinctions to those who only pass just five subjects. The analysis of this year’s passes have been done, and the many critics did give their cliché analyses of the circumstances. In the midst of all the celebrations, I have to agree with the minister that even though there are improvements, it is still not got enough. And in our 52 years of independence our education system continues to suffer, failing our students, our society and our nation.

The Minister reports, “Candidates who sat this year's CSEC examinations recorded an improvement in 14 of the 35 subject areas, with mathematics recording the highest jump - a 13 percentage point increase in passes -moving from 42 per cent last year to 56 per cent.” Additionally, “Overall, the science subjects recorded the largest improvement in passes, with seven percentage points.”

This is how it ought to be, imagine of this trajectory continues, Jamaica will have something to celebrate. As such, we would be on a path of growth, being that the overall growth, development and production of a country is solely based on how educated the nation is. There is an increasing demand for implementing STEM education and since the science and mathematics passes have improved, I must say there is hope. But how can we reach the remaining 44 per cent? According to Thwaites, the improved performance in mathematics is attributable to a number of initiatives implemented in high schools under the ministry's national mathematics teams. If this is the case, I commend the ministry for such initiative and hope that it will continue and be even better.

I also commend all the stake holders who played a part in the improvements of this year’s results. The celebration would be on now, but the attention will soon be shifted to those who failed. I am just curious, the critics have proved me right, I expected nothing different than the cliché notions of blaming teachers and the ideology of failing schools.

Publicise SORs? Are there any other options?

According to a Gleaner article, “Opposition spokesperson on Youth and Gender Affairs Olivia 'Babsy' Grange has expressed strong concern and disappointment that the long-promised Sex Offenders' Registry is not yet up and running.” The Office of Children Registry (OCR) has recently reported that the child abuse rate has increase by about 40 per cent. Now, there is a growing concern about this issue because there are persons who know about these cases and are not saying anything. What can be done to reduce child abuse? What can be done to break the ‘silence?

Will the publication of a Sex Offenders Registry (SOR) help in the reduction of child abuse? 

According to the opposition spokesperson, everyone has the right to know if his neighbour is a sex offender. She further states: “Yes, I think neighbours and communities should be aware of who the sexual offenders are. We need this in the protection of women and girls, the elderly, as well as our boys.” However this has generated some concerns by human rights activists, for according to them, “the publication of sex registries has proven to be an ineffective deterrent to offenders. Only the United States and South Korea now publicise sex-offender registries, and neither of these countries has reported a decline in sex offences as a result of community notification.”

Publication of SORs has its disadvantages, and since countries which have publicise it has reported no decline in sexual offences, should we follow through with this idea? If it is that we do not publicise SORs, what are the other alternatives? This issue must be addressed swiftly, it cannot be that children’s future keep being destroyed by these offenders. If we ought to know whether or not we should publicise the SORs, we need to examine the issue, weigh the pros and cons then determine if the pros outweighs the cons. If the latter holds true, then I suggest that we find other means of addressing the issue, we cannot run with an idea because it ‘sounds good’ without noting its long term implications. What is the point in having a buying a machine that does not work? However, because it does not work in USA and South Korea does that mean it will not work in Jamaica?

Lets break the chain of suicide

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published research findings which concluded that, more than 800,000 people around the world die from suicide every year -- around one person every 40 seconds. “Unfortunately, suicide all too often fails to be prioritised as a major public health problem,” said WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan. She further stated, “Despite an increase in research and knowledge about suicide and its prevention, the taboo and stigma surrounding suicide persist, and often people do not seek help or are left alone. And if they do seek help, many health systems and services fail to provide timely and effective help.”

I have a genuine concern as it relates to suicide, and as Director-General Dr Margeret Chan pointed out, suicide fails to be prioritized. The report says that, in some individual countries, however, the highest rates are found among the young. Notably, suicide is the second-leading cause of death in 15 to 29-year-olds globally. This finding is more than overwhelming, and I believe that more should be done to tackle this problem. Despite our deficiencies in the health sector and the failure of the Health minister, I believe that more can be done starting at the community level.

Suicide reports have been all over the media, we hear of police committing suicide, MPs saying they are receiving suicidal messages from members their respective constituencies, and the list goes on. Then there is the recent death of actor Robin Williams which is said to be suicide. One may never know what a person is going through, what circumstance initiate suicidal thoughts, and instead of us criticizing and condemning the act, especially those of the Christian faith, we must see it as a problem and address it. Though I am a Christian, who am I to judge? There are men in the bible who were servants of God, who committed suicide, consider King Saul and Sampson.

Dr Jorge Rodriguez, chief of the Mental Health Unit at the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), said “The most important message is that suicide can be prevented, especially if we identify people at risk and intervene early…People who have attempted suicide are at higher risk of attempting it again, he noted, making it important for health personnel to provide follow-up of such cases, with family and community support.”

The new WHO report identifies a series of measures that can help prevent suicide, among them: creating national strategies for suicide prevention; restricting access to the most common means of suicide, including pesticides, firearms and certain medicines; providing medical follow-up for people who have attempted suicide; incorporating suicide prevention as a central component in health services identifying and treating mental health and substance abuse disorders as early as possible; and responsible reporting on suicide by the news media

I also would like to add that each on every one of us has a duty, give a listening ear to a person who is struggling, take the time to talk with a person and encourage them, and refer them to a professional. Let us break the chain of suicide by being our brother’s keeper.

Failing teachers? Is that so?

The Gleaner carried a Column titled, “failing teachers” published on Sunday August 24, 2014. The writer explored various aspects as it relates to areas in which teachers are failing the nation, and challenges various stake holders to improve the teaching and learning process, and by extension, our educational outcome. However, there are some aspects of the article that I take issue with. Mr. Mason stated that, “There are too many substitutes in our classrooms. This results in a lack of discipline or respect between the teachers and students.” This is a fallacious claim, since he provided no evidence to support it. Respect between teachers and students should always be mutual, whether the teacher is a substitute or not.

He also stated that, “When the Jamaica Teachers' Association speaks of the single largest contribution to the poor state of education being in the home, the impression is left that the family life of our students has significantly deteriorated in recent times. I have seen no data to support this.” Since, Mr. Mason is oblivious, let me inform him. The home is one of the most critical aspects of any child’s development. As it relates to children and the home, we look towards three paramount developmental areas, Early Literacy Development, Emergent Literacy and Oral Language. These three are vital toward any student future academic success being that they are all mutual inclusive and they start within the home. Factors which affect these areas are socioeconomic background, lack of parental involvement and according to (Sulzby, 1985), lack of a literacy rich environment, among others.

Of the three, Oral Language is most vital. Oral language development begins in infancy when adults respond to the infant’s cooing and babbling. The stronger a child's oral language development, the greater is the literacy success. Because increased literacy correlates to enhanced learning ability and sharper critical reasoning skills, an emphasis on oral language gives children a proven foundation for dramatically accelerated success in life. When students fail to have strong foundation in these areas, the work of teachers becomes more strenuous and it affects educational outcome. So Mr. Mason, it has nothing to do with students’ family life being deteriorated.

Mr. Mason further states, “Teaching used to be seen as a calling. Women in my family, as well as friends, treated the profession with the pride it deserves. Pity this does not happen much anymore. Since this is not so, why the resistance to pay for performance?” Mr. Mason, It does not take rocket science to know that this system is unfeasible. What would be used to measure performance? In light of teaching and learning, what does Lev Vygotsky, Jean Piaget, and other theorists have to say? Any science student should be able to tell you that in order to measure both qualitative and quantitative outcomes of an experiment, there has to be a control group which is exposed to same conditions as the subject being measured. Even a simple mathematics topic like measurement shows why it is impractical, being that one knows what measurement is.

Finally, Mr. Mason makes the argument that, “The teachers' colleges are perceived to be the weakest link in the tertiary training chain. Persons are admitted to colleges who have run out of other options because of their own academic deficiencies. One must question the value of having a teacher of mathematics who did not pass the subject at the high-school level.” Over the years, teachers colleges have done a successful job in training quality teachers. The problem lies with the administrators of various schools. No teacher places him/herself in the education system. If you have a teacher of mathematics who did not pass the subject at the high school level, there isn’t a need for a question of value; the question is how such teacher gets the job in the first place. And most of our teachers in the system are misplaced, how can you have a teacher who has masters in home economics teaching primary school children?

I am not sure what Mr. Mason means by ‘miseducated’, but as far as I am concerned, nobody goes to school to learn how to be a parent and you do not need a degree to know that you need to be involved in your child’s life. As educators, we do not blame home environment, we are simply saying that it has a significant impact on any child’s future academic success. 

Minister's master book list is impractical

As we begin a new academic year, parents were busy getting things for their children for back to school. There was be a rush for books, pencils, uniforms, shoes etc. Parents have to get all the necessities in this tough economic time. I can imagine that there were very tight budgets and parents were seeking to cut down on costs by whatever means necessarily. It is against this background that I want to bring our attention to the Education Minister’s master book list.

This book list was created on the premise that parents are complaining that they are spending so much money buying books that are never used. But we educators, though we understand the tough economic times we live in, I must say that the minister’s master book list is impractical. I wrote an article in this blog supporting the Minister and one of my colleagues read it and shared that she disagrees. Consequently, I asked her to justify her disagreement and she brought to my attention something most persons are oblivious about.

My colleague has been teaching for quite a few years, and she expressed that books that will work for students at Campion College, will not necessarily work for students at Bustamante High School. This is solely based on the differences in cognitive levels of students that attend both schools. As such, the books that are used at various schools have to be carefully selected, depending on careful examination of various factors.

Dr. Dick, a Gleaner columnist, stated that, “Obviously, some persons will make the judgement call of what is the appropriate textbook and it cannot be each teacher at each school selecting the textbook. Concerning the prescribed texts, it could be that a group of experts should make the decision and all schools, and ultimately all students, use the same texts. In other words, all the Jamaican children should benefit from a similar education no matter which high school the person attends.”

I am a student at Church Teachers’ College going into third year few weeks from now, and, I have done many theories in learning. I am not sure as to what area Dr. Dick did his PH.D in, but if he had been to Teachers’ College, he would have known why the aforementioned perspective is impractical. In second year, I did a course titled ‘Literacy Across the Curriculum’. In that course, one learnt about readability of text and readability levels of students. There are three readability levels, instructional, frustration and independent. As such, it is the teacher’s responsibility to evaluate the readability of the text, and therefore determine if the text is appropriate as it relates to the readability levels of students.

This type of evaluation cannot be done by a ‘group of experts.’ Though they might be able to determine the readability of the text, it is not possible to determine the readability levels of students, bearing in mind that the readability of students varies according to schools, class and grade. Therefore, not all students can use the ‘same text.’ So, with this in mind, it has to be each teacher at each school selecting the textbook. I understand the background of which the minister decides to create the master book list, but the minister cannot do such being ignorant of fundamental principles in teaching and learning.

Kenroy Davis is a commentator on social issues with a special focus on those relating to education. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Jamaican democracy is a facade

“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education”. -  Franklin D. Roosevelt.

As we reflect on the true meaning of August 6, 2014, thinking whether we are truly independent or not, thinking whether there is anything to celebrate about, thinking whether Grand Gala was a waste of time and money, I am wondering if Jamaica is truly a democratic country. In any country where the government is selected under a democratic regime, the common thought that rests upon one’s mind is that majority rules or majority counts.

The universal adult suffrage was first introduced in Jamaica on November 20, 1944. The aim of such was to create a system that extended voting rights to all adults irrespective of race, sex, or social class. It was to set the foundation for our political system today, and in, a sense, catalysed the movement toward self-government for Jamaica.

The process was led by Norman Manley, and Alexander Bustamante would later become the island's first prime minister. Before Universal Adult Suffrage, implemented in 1944, the right to vote was determined by the amount of wealth or property a man held. Additionally, the universal adult suffrage was to set the pace for equity and equality.

The universal adult suffrage was embedded in the concept that Jamaica ought to be a democratic nation, where it’s the people who decide who leads the country and it’s them who decide their own future as a nation. Only a few in Jamaica really understand the fundamental right to vote. The ‘garrison’ and ‘bandwagon’ mentality is what clouds our judgment, and as such, our decisions are misinformed and unwise. We need not to forget that whoever we choose to led us, is either going to lead us to prosperity or damnation.

Over the years, we have seen a significant decline in the voter turnout. In the 2011 elections, of a number of 1,648,036 people who were eligible to vote, only 869,438 voted, which makes the voter turnout 52.76%. I am wondering why 47.24% did not vote. And, in order to fix this problem, one of the solutions brought forward was to make voting mandatory. Rubbish! Because of what the government – both JLP and PNP, has done over the years, people have lost confidence in them, which means neither party is fit to serve, for both are the same thing – corrupt. In our 52 years of independence what have we achieve? Struggling to pass some IMF tests while crime, abuse and poverty escalate?

In a democracy, people are to select a government that will maneuver us to continuous success, where living is affordable; opportunities are readily available, where we embrace modernisation and globalization, educational and health services are 21^st century – world class, innovation becomes a part of us, where we advance in the world of technology and surpass vision 2030. The selection should be based on informed and wise decision. However, poor governance is a plague unto our nation. I am yet to see the political party which stands out, they are both the same. Questions: if no party is fit to serve, what is the point of choosing since there is nothing to choose? Does democracy truly exists? Is there a difference between ice in a bag and ice in a cube? Democracy might exist, but not in the true sense of the context of its true meaning. 

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Misconceptions in this gay debate...

Though I wish not to get entangled in this gay debate, I have read many news articles, letters and columns and editorials and noticed, much have been said. And as such, it induced controversies and criticisms. Within the context and framework of this debate, I have noticed that there are misconceptions and that is why some persons speak and reason the way they do.

The first misconception is that it seems we believe that homosexuality is illegal in Jamaica. To my knowledge, I have yet to hear that there is a law that states that homosexuality is a criminal offense. I have never heard of a case in which, a person is locked up and charged for being attracted to the same sex. I have noticed this misconception because persons believe that the US might pressure Jamaica to ‘free up the B-man them.’ This type of reasoning vacuous, since anybody is free to love whomever they want.

Because of misconception #1, the second misconception follows easily, which is the belief that anal sex is synonymous homosexuality. I have noticed this misconception based on two ideologies. The first is that when a person disagrees with the buggery, it seems that they think they are disagreeing with homosexuality. This is not the case. Disagreeing with the buggery law means you disagree with anal sex, not homosexuality. It seems this ideology has its root in that fact that it is gays who are more likely to engage in anal sex, but studies have shown that heterosexuals engage in anal sex more than homosexuals. Homosexuality is simply being attracted to the same sex and buggery is simply anal sex, though they link in one way or another, they are not the same – common sense!

The second ideology is that since Christians are pushing the retention of the buggery law, people are offended, and the usual thing to do is to say “God says not to judge” or “what about fornication and adultery?” Asking these questions is senseless. When the church was protesting about the retention of the buggery law, they were not protesting against homosexuality but ‘anal sex’, but because of the misconception, this fact is constantly being ignored. The church cannot protest against something that is already legal, though not official.

This other misconception is embedded in, and extends from misconception #2. Because there is the belief that homosexuality is synonymous to anal sex, many have it to say that the buggery law is discriminatory. It is said that the buggery law prevents the LGBT community from accessing proper health care. This type of reasoning is absurd! Then there is this concept that we must get rid of ‘old laws’ that discriminates against a minority or vulnerable group of people. Because our reasoning is insular, we may never accept this fact, the law does not discriminate against homosexuals. Let us eliminate lesbians, since they aren’t likely to commit buggery. What of gays? The buggery law speaks about ‘any man’ not a homosexual man or a gay man. Both heterosexuals and homosexuals engage in the act. The only reason gay men feel discriminated against, is because they are the ones who are ‘more likely’ to commit the act. But that doesn’t mean they are the only ones doing it. The law affects buggers – both homo/heterosexuals not just gays!

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Gays, stop hiding behind the buggery law!

It is a common talk that the buggery law discriminates against MSMs and it serves as a hindrance to gays having access to proper health care. It is also considered mendacious to make the claim that in countries, in which the buggery law is removed, there is no improvement of access to health care by MSM community and therefore STIs is high among that group.

I believe that to hide behind the buggery law is either ignorance or stupidity at its best. We ought to be aware that STIs means Sexually Transmitted Infections. That means the most common way the infections can be transmitted is through sexual intercourse – that is common sense. Now, in order to prevent the spreading of STIs, professionals suggest methods which that can be done. One of the most popular and common method is using a condom.

I want to know, how does the buggery law prevents MSM from using condoms? Are they that ignorant that they are oblivious that if you have sex without a condom there is a high possibility of contracting STIs? Or are they just stupid? I am sure that there are tons of advertisements and posters all over the place with the slogan: “use a condom every time.” So this hiding behind the buggery law is just ignorance or mere stupidity. Is it that when they (MSM) see these advertisements they interpret it as speaking to only vaginal sex?

I have no interest in what consenting adults want to do in their bedrooms for that is not my business. But it is foolish to claim that the buggery law is preventing MSM from accessing proper health care and as such, that is why STIs is high among MSM community. What kind of rational is that? The buggery law says that people should not engage in buggery, not that they should not use condoms. Just as how heterosexuals can do HIV tests to ensure that their partners are safe, why can’t the MSM community do that? When is it that when you go to do the test, you are asked whether you are gay or straight? And even if you are asked, does being gay prevent them from being tested? Well, may be.

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn’t it that health care comes after one has contracted a STI? Which, there would be treatment and/or cure, if possible, of the infection? Then if that is the case, then doesn’t that mean that everyone has a duty and/or responsibility to protect themselves from contracting STIs? The members of the MSM community should stop their careless lifestyle and start demonstrating wisdom. Additionally, according to Dr David Delvin, GP and family planning specialist, “Most sexual activities carry a risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) ranging from gonorrhoea and herpes to hepatitis B and HIV. Anal intercourse carries a high transmission risk.”

I am not supporting the gay lifestyle; I am just simply saying that whatever life that people choose to live, they must ensure that they do what is necessary to protect themselves. Gays must use the brains that God gave them, and stop hiding behind the buggery law! Let us not confuse ignorance or mere stupidity with incontrovertible truths.  

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Reading is important, please stop ignore...

 

It was when I entered the National Library Service’s annual reading competition, I found out how fun reading can be. One of the books that I got to read was titled ‘til am laid to rest,’ written by Garfield Ellis. The book had me hooked, it was an excellent piece. I recently read a novel titled ‘Lifeguard’ by James Patterson; it was a marvelous, explicitly brilliant novel.

With the data that is now available on educatejamaica.org which highlights that only a mere 25% of high schools in Jamaica that were able to produce students with five (5) or more CSEC subjects, which are the minimum requirement to matriculate to a tertiary institution, the blame game starts again. While many are blaming teachers; teachers are complaining about the many factors that affect students’ learning such as lack of resources, socioeconomic background, and students’ cognitive level, among others.

Recently I picked up an Observer which was from 2011, and I saw an article about ‘failing schools.’ The content of the article was no different from what I have been reading now. I have noticed that we are master critics, but amateurs in providing and executing solutions. One columnist mentioned that we must target early childhood and improve the quality of education at that level, with such, I concur. For whatever happens at this level, sets the foundation for academic success.

However, based on UNICEF, Jamaica’s literacy level is at 87%, compared to our Caribbean neighbors Barbados, whose literacy level is at 99.7%, we asked ourselves, what is it that they are doing that we aren’t? If we ought to produce effective citizen, improve our education system, then we need to improve our literacy level. As such, I also urge the government to intervene at the early childhood level. Instead of saying students must not leave high school and cannot read, a child should not leave basic school and cannot read, unless that child has a learning disorder that will prevent him/her from doing so.

“Research findings in applied linguistics and reading research consistently show a strong correlation between reading proficiency and academic success at all ages. From primary school to university,” says E. Pristorius, a linguist. Good readers can understand the individual sentences and the organizational structure of the piece of writing. They can comprehend ideas, arguments and detect implications. When parents and teachers encourage reading, it improves proficiency in the English Language, improves academic success, improves literacy level and by extension, improves our educational outcome. The importance of reading cannot be overemphasized.

Linguists suggest that there is an important stage in every child’s life referred to as early literacy development. Researchers highlight that there are factors which affect such development, oral language being among them. The stronger a child's oral language development, the greater is the literacy success. Because increased literacy correlates to enhanced learning ability and sharper critical reasoning skills, an emphasis on oral language gives children a proven foundation for dramatically accelerated success in life. At this stage, parents are to expose their children to a lot of reading material. Reading and oral language are mutual inclusive – like mutualism in symbiosis. Research tells us that those children who have strong oral language skills often have strong reading and writing skills. We should encourage reading at all levels; less Candy Crush, less Temple Run, less Subway Surf and more reading.

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Not repeal, but revise....

Many have been distraught because of the rally on Sunday June 29, 2014, declaring that there are more pressing issues at stake. Questions have been raised, how come the church is not protesting against rapists, murderers, adulterers, fornicators etc.? The church should be the moral fiber of society, the DNA of which our moral standards and values are based up on. Yet, many are of the conviction that the rally or the ‘church’ itself is infiltrated with pure hypocrisy.

It is quite sad to hear the public’s view of the event; however it is just the growing trend – a mere aspect of the status quo. The church over years has lost its voice; its position as the moral fiber of society is slowly delving into a state of extinction. Though we are not perfect, we have failed to live a life in which people have respect for us, and by extension, the church. I was under the conviction that the Jamaican populous embraced a culture of Christian values and principles. Our National Anthem in and of itself is a prayer, which I heard (not sure how true it is) was among the best in the world.

Regardless of how our culture has evolved, I believe that the church community reserves the right to have a voice and to speak out against a human behavior that they and other members of society consider unacceptable. As a Christian, I do not, in any way, tolerate violence and/or discrimination against homosexuals, but I will not accept their behavior as normal, neither will I accept that they were born that way. For, the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association recommends that people not use the argument that homosexuality is biological because there is simply not enough evidence.

Many (homosexuals predominantly) are calling on the Government to repeal the buggery law which states “Any male person who, in public or private, commits, or is a party to the commission of, or procures or attempts to procure the commission by any male person of, any act of gross indecency with another male person, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and being convicted thereof shall be liable at the discretion of the court to be imprisoned for a term not exceeding two years, with or without hard labour.” I will not say that the law must be repealed, rather it should be revised. Since homosexuals claim that what they do in the privacy of their homes is nobody’s business, then remove the word private from the law. Clearly, the law in its current state is unenforceable, however let what is done in private, stays in private.

According to J-FLAG, “a wholesale repeal of the buggery law would not be helpful to anyone because it would create a lacuna in the law.” Brian Paul, sub-regional co-ordinator of the Caribbean Forum of the Liberation and Acceptance of Genders and Sexualities (CariFLAGS) and advocate for J-FLAG states “So, for instance, if a little boy or little girl should be raped in the anus, in the absence of the buggery law, there is no protection. So, as it is right now, the buggery law does serve some useful purpose, but it is problematic for consenting adults in private.” I believe homosexuals have rights, should be respected and live a peaceful life, but I do not condone homosexuals forcing society to accept their lifestyle as normal.

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Phil. 4:8)

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues affecting the country. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Is being independent too much to ask for?

One of the perspectives that was embedded in the then status quo, the then culture, was that women were ‘inferior’ to men and their place was in the home – taking care of the children and the household. While women do this, the men will work and ‘bring in the money.’ Women began to fight for gender equality and to be independent, as such, our culture has evolved and women can now work and provide for themselves independent of the man.

Today, we see women being CEOs, Prime Ministers, and Managers etc. The debate as to whether or not women should be doing male dominated jobs has been eradicated – never to be revived again. For women have proved to men that any job a man can do, they can do it too and, even better – silencing the critics. Additionally, women have also dominated the education sector. When I entered college, I was told that the male to female ratio was 1:6. Imagine that! There are more females graduating from high schools, colleges, and universities than their male counterparts.

I respect an independent woman; I am not and will never be threatened by an independent woman. I love the idea of women being independent. Though I personally believe that men should be the leader of their households, over the years, women have played that role pretty well. Though the bible refers to women as the ‘weaker vessel’, I have to acknowledge that women do have some ‘balls,’ (pun intended). When I examine our current status quo, though I have no research or study to substantiate my opinion, I wonder if women are innately dependent or it’s just human beings in general.

Out of my high school class of about fifty of us, of which about thirty plus being females, to my knowledge, neither of them have a tertiary education and I can literally count on my fingers how much haven’t had a child. Nothing is wrong with having a child, but when they keep having children, putting their education on pause, would it not result in them being ‘dependent’ on a man? When I see young girls successfully graduated from high school, have the opportunity to get an education and they choose instead to get pregnant, would they not be dependent on a man? If they are not working, who takes care of them and the child? The man! The way things are going now, you might need qualifications to merely baby sit.

Minimum wage cannot do a thing. When you have to pay bills, buy food, send children to school, and with food prices going sky high, what can five thousand dollars a week do? When our young girls see the implications of being dependent, even from others, how come they choose that type of lifestyle? Why not follow the footsteps of successful women who have trod the independent path? I have become weary of seeing teenage girls throwing their lives away. Not because the man can “gi yuh a likkle ting” doesn’t mean you are obligated to give him a child, and therefore give up your opportunity of being independent.

I am not saying that young girls have not had children and yet they manage to be independent – I have seen it. But why choose a life of dependency when you have the strength, power and much to offer the world? I know there is a reason why many young girls chose to go to universities and colleges rather than having five children for five different men. Teenage pregnancy is a major social ill, it has its implications, but in most cases, it results in teenage girls living a life of dependency. Young ladies, you are more than that, so please start acting as such. Sometimes when I see women above age thirty being pregnant, it looks weird, out of place. But I will not accept young teenage girls being fooled by material things and get captured, sometimes by the scammer youth.

To my young girls: you are special, you can achieve much more, and you have so much strength, power and vigor, waiting to be unleashed. Please be independent, get an education, stop being misled, believe it or not, “pickey nah hold man again.” Set your priorities straight, it’s good to have children, but its better when you can provide for them and take care of yourself. Young men, nuh feel nuh way, nuff respect mi brethren, but I have to empower our women. Please, be independent!       

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

No Dr. Nicely, "wheel and come again"

JTA President, Dr. Mark Nicely has instructed the nation's teachers to disregard the Ministry of Education's master book list. He stated that if teachers are sanctioned by the ministry, the JTA will defend them. While his rationale is important, I think he is going about this the wrong way, and, it speaks a lot about him as leader.

With reference to a media report, the president said, “My recommendation, frankly, is that you are to proceed until you are apprehended, and when you are apprehended, the Jamaica Teachers' Association will be there to treat with the matter.” So, is that to say students should disobey school rules because they know their parents will defend them, if it is that they disagree with the school’s rules? What kind of backwardness is that for leader? We need to mindful of what we say, and how we go about dealing with situations.

Mr. Nicely also stated that teachers were the experts and they should do what they believe is best for the students in their classrooms. This is very much true, no one book contains all the information, and it is fair enough if teachers recommend books that they believe will provide quality content that is resourceful to students. But, teachers should also dialogue with the parents and as such come to an agreement. we also cannot ignore the fact that teachers are recommending books that are never used and that in and of itself, must stop. For, it is burdening the parents who can hardly support their children.

When I was in primary school, I see students with books that were never used in class. As educators, we have to be mindful of our status quo, and the very fact that times are tough, jobs are scarce, and parents cannot afford it. And, we cannot ignore inquiries of parents, rules and policies set by the Ministry. What example are we setting for those who are looking to us to lead them? What example are we setting for the future leaders of tomorrow? This ‘do what I say, and not what I do’ will not cut it, we need to be role models. And, what Dr. Nicely is proposing, is not how we ought to do it.

The solution is simple, since Dr. Nicely says that we (educators) are the experts, then, it is fair that the Ministry of Education dialogue with the JTA. As such, strategically select a committee of teachers who are competent in respective subject areas, to review the curriculum, and select books that are most suitable for a specific grade level in which the content of the books matches the objectives of the curriculum. There is no need for the Ministry and the JTA to be in a ‘cock fight’, the two entities can work together and therefore make it advantageous for all. With this proposal, teachers will get the chance to select their books, only that it will be under a strategic framework organized by the Ministry.

I am not sure under what regime the Ministry selects the “master booklist,” but if this proposal is considered, the committee could also review the booklist and determine the books that should stay and if needs be, the ones that should go. The President needs to be a leader and provide solutions, rather than telling teachers to be delinquent. With this type of behavior that he is advocating it open my eyes to why people view teachers the will they do. A word to the wise, “yuh cah sen monkey go ring church bell!”

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Mystery of the "gay gene"

The recent sacking of Prof Brendan Bain has become a controversial issue among the masses. J-FLAG is now advocating for the decriminalization of same sex acts. While I agree that homosexuals should have certain rights just as anybody else, I will not support them advocating that society should accept that behavior as norm.

Homosexuality is nothing new. The practice has been in existence for centuries. It is prevalent in both humans and animals. As such, scientists have done extensive research on the practice. This was to prove whether homosexuality was genetic or a choice. However, to fully understand this issue, we have to examine the issue of ‘sexual orientation’. Researchers have proposed that sexual orientation is determined before birth. As such, genetics play a significant role in determining sexual orientation.

Gay gene found?

A study of gay men in the US has found fresh evidence that male sexual orientation is influenced by genes. Scientists tested the DNA of 400 gay men and found that genes on at least two chromosomes affected whether a man was gay or straight. A region of the X chromosome called Xq28 had some impact on men's sexual behaviour – though scientists have no idea which of the many genes in the region is involved, nor how many lie elsewhere in the genome.

Michael Bailey, a psychologist at Northwestern University in Illinois, reveals that, “the study shows that there are genes involved in male sexual orientation. The work has yet to be published, but confirms the findings of a smaller study that sparked widespread controversy in 1993, when Dean Hamer, a scientist at the US National Cancer Institute, investigated the family histories of more than 100 gay men and found homosexuality tended to be inherited.” He also stated that “Sexual orientation has nothing to do with choice; we found evidence for two sets [of genes] that affect whether a man is gay or straight. But it is not completely determinative; there are certainly other environmental factors involved.”

Research is biased

The problem that I have with this research is that it very subjective. Most of what I have read about genetics and sexual orientation is mostly centered on ‘gay’ men. What I have failed to see, is that no research has been done on lesbians (females) and bisexuals – those said to have multiple sexual orientation. Are we to conclude that females and bisexuals sexual orientation is not determined by genes? And if so, it is a choice? One study by Rice et al. in 1999 failed to replicate the Xq28 linkage results. If that is the case, what are we to believe?

Additionally, something that I want to understand is that, if homosexuality is determine by genes, that would mean, in any case, that the gene in the carrier would be recessive. If that person has a homosexual child, that would mean that in that child, the gene is dominant. So, how will that child be able to pass on that gene? For, that child will be attracted to the same sex, and he or she will not be able to reproduce – a man cannot impregnate a man neither a woman a woman.

Moreover, if there is such a gene, how it is that it has been recessive for so many generations (that means for another generation to come, reproduction has to take place, and for reproduction to take place, it has to be between heterosexuals) and it just happen that this specific child receive that “gene”. Research have also shown that females are the predominant carriers of the gene, so why is the gene always the dominant in the ‘male’ child, what about the female?

What if I decide to enter various prisons, separate the murderers from the rapists and do an extensive research on them and during my research, I found out that the murderers have a similar marker on a specific gene that the rapists do not have and the rapists have a specific marker on a gene that the murderers do not have, should I conclude then that there is a gene that determine murderers and rapists and therefore it is not a choice? And if that is the case, we should accept it because they have no control over who they become?

Choice or biological

There have been numerous research and testimonies of person who were gay and became heterosexuals and vice versa. As such, the debate of whether being gay or lesbian a choice will continue to avail. A curious young lady once asked the question, “Can people choose to become gay?” One person responded in saying “One of my friend's actually, decided to turn bi-sexual. I asked her "Why?" she said, "I want to experiment with my gender preferences." I said "that's....Interesting?", and she responded "Sometimes people are born the way they are -either gay, lesbian, bi sexual - and the rest of us are just in for the experiment. I want to see how girls appeal to me. Lately, I've noticed that I can find a girl to be just as cute as a guy. So, I want to go out there and see where I can go with this."

I saw a few people in middle school decide they want to try and be "lesbian" or "gay". It was almost a trend. I'm not too sure if they were born this way, never knew they could have the potential to desire the same sex, and later found out after puberty. As a result, from middle school and on, I started to believe that yes, some people can chose to turn gay or lesbian. At least this is the response I have gotten from a few friends who actually decided to make the change and stay that way for six years. Today, I have no current knowledge regarding their sexual preference status.

We can study and research as much as we want to substantiate any behavior. Whether we believe homosexuality is a choice or biological. I put it to all the gay lobby groups that please continue to advocate for the rights of these people, but do not tap into the realm of trying to force society to accept that behavior as norm.

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Survival of the Fittest defines our "Status Quo"

The jungle, in which the status quo exists, should convey to the Jamaican populous that it’s the minority that will make it – only the fittest of the fit will survive. Within the current structure and framework of our society, the ‘jungle’ mentality is quite evident. The recent accident on the mount rosser road captures it all. A media report reveals that “In a matter of minutes a horde of looters converged on the scene and, with scant disregard for the safety of the driver, began emptying the storage area of the truck.”

The driver of the truck states that, "they were more concerned about looting the goods than about helping me. Only a few wondered aloud if the driver was not injured. I am glad neither me or anyone else was injured". The report further states, “It did not take long before the truck was emptied. The looters were still not satisfied. They then turned their attention to scrapping the truck and removed the front and back right wheels before emptying the gas tank.” With this ‘jungle’ mentality parading within our society, is it not palpable that Jamaica might be in a state beyond repair? This virus of a mentality is slowly spreading and consuming our people as a parasite feeding on its host.

There has been a prevalent increase in the method by which we seek justice. From the 8 y-old that was killed in St. Thomas, to a woman that was recently killed in a corporate area in Kingston, we hear of how persons take it upon themselves to administer sentences in which they deem right – ‘jungle justice.’ In this system of justice, you are guilty before you are tried. Then again, why not go down that route if we believe that our current justice system is deformed? Would I be correct to say that to the typical man, justice is fiction – something that the majority talks about but it’s not real? Why then would jungle justice be automatic in the case where a person is in wrong?

Education and Poverty

I have heard this statement quite often, ‘poverty is a state of mind.’ This means, you are poor if your mind tells you so. Recently, one of my colleagues and I were discussing the poverty issue. She maintained that poverty is a state of mind while I was trying to convince her that it is not – it is structure of the status quo. Either way, it is a national problem. A study conducted by member of the American Counselling Association and the Association of Adventist Family Life Professional Dr Alanzo Smith, reveals that, some 1.1 million Jamaicans are living below the poverty line, fuelling an intergenerational crisis. This means of a population of 2.7 million people, over 1 million is living below the poverty line, which is approximately 40.7 per cent.

Additionally the unemployment rate continues to rise. Within this context, education is highlighted as the priority. Dr. Grace Virtue, a public affairs practitioner, social policy analyst and social justice advocate, reports that “Development studies have long identified education as the key to eradicating poverty and alleviating the dysfunctions with which we struggle.” The Ministry of Education has indicated that between the University of the West Indies and the University of Technology, more than 6,000 undergraduate students are expected to graduate this year. Moreover, we consider our Teachers’ Colleges as well as other tertiary institutions. Out of that amount, how many will actually get jobs?

Students are told to get into professions that are of high demand, but one has to consider this fact – not everyone will be a pharmacist, doctor, lawyer or chemists. It’s often said that ‘links’ get you far, so what if you have no ‘links,’ what happens then? Poverty has become so absolute, that even our children, who is our future, are forced into prostitution as a means of survival. Not that they do not want to be educated, they just cannot afford it. People will do whatever it takes to make it, even if it means destroying their own. The reality is this; the current status quo defines a jungle, where ‘survival of the fittest’ becomes the pilot of our minds.

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Patwa vs. English saga

The Patois vs. English has become a common discussion for various academics. Regular Observer columnists have also conveyed their views on the matter, among them are Dr. Franklin Johnston and Dr. Grace Virtue. Though they may not be parallel on the issue, both have good substance to offer. As far as the discussion may takes us, it is important to note that nobody is disputing the fact that persons must learn English, as it is the universal language of commerce and communication. However, I hope that we will also note that Patois or the Jamaican Creole is unique to us, and it plays an important part of our cultural heritage.

The students’ performance English Language CSEC exams, is about 63.7 per cent. The reports revealed that students understand the language but are weak in expression. What is this saying to us? It is simply saying that students’ have problems expressing themselves in the language. Since the exams is in written form, what about their ability to speak the language? There was an argument that is proposing that just as Spanish; English Language should have an oral component of the examination. Will that prove to be effective? Who knows? It may or may not be. Dr. Franklin Johnston in his observer column was emphasizing the fact that politicians and celebrities should be role models for others to speak the language (English), but he failed to acknowledge an inconsequential aspect, that is, the home.

Studies have shown that a baby can learn up to five languages simultaneously. With that being established, if we want to see people communicating ‘properly’ it starts from the home. Eventually a baby will grow up speaking the language that is predominantly used within the home. I can share from experience about a family that attends my church. Both parents speak the Jamaican Creole predominantly, but when I heard their children speak, I was marveled. I literally asked them if their children were in the US, but to my surprise, they said no. What they did, was to expose their children to a television station called, if my memory serves right, ABC kids.

Am I saying that we should eliminate the use the Jamaican Creole? I will never suggest that. The Jamaican creole plays a significant role in our cultural heritage. It has been passed down from generations; it is unique to us as a people. Others are fascinated by our language. What I have realized though, is that there is a stigma attached to speaking the language. Many times I have heard this question, “how yuh chat bad suh?” In some cases, those who speak the language are viewed ‘buttoos’.

The Language (Jamaican Creole) is, at times, associated to those who are of low status in society. I am not afraid to own the language and nobody should. I will publicly acknowledge that the Jamaican Creole is my first language. English is important and so is Patois. I will suggest that we should develop mastery of the English Language and use it when it is indeed necessary. At the same time, let us not view the Jamaican Creole as a problem, or that something is wrong with it, for some things I can say in the Jamaica Creole will not have the same effect if spoken in the English Language. Nah mean?  

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Violence, abuse, suicide, not the answer!

The content of a recent news article “Gruesome murder of a helpful teacher” should be a case of national concern. I must confess that I am overwhelmed by the status quo, as there are so many social issues affecting us locally and even nationally. Our crime rate is one of the major issues affecting us as a country. With Jamaica labeled as being the murder capital of the world, can we say that we have anything to boast about?

My concern is that our men are troubled and more needs to be done to swiftly address it, else we will hear about more ghastly murders. The article mentioned that: “Grossett was involved in a dispute with her common-law husband about 9:30 pm when a knife was brought into play and she was stabbed several times.” There was a dispute, and the solution was violence, what is that saying about our Jamaican men? Recently a mother and her two sons were also killed, and it is alleged she was also in dispute with the killer, whom she had relations with.

We have also heard of cases where two policemen committed suicide and based on the nature of the cases, it could be interpreted that they had relationship problems. Another case highlights the fact that a pregnant woman was beheaded by her partner. All these cases convey the end results of how our men are dealing with relationship problems. It seems that violence and suicide have predominately become the mode by which our men deal with their relationship problems and that is of much concern. This not only put our women in danger, but also our children. Additionally, in the case that children are left behind, it may have severe psychological implications.

This problem is nothing new, though recently it has become more prevalent. I think it is indicative of how our men are socialized. Psychological Theorist such as Lev Vygosky informed us that children are born tabula rasa, which means, in a blank state. As such, he believed strongly that community plays a central role in the process of "making meaning." Therefore, the home, school, community and socialization impact behaviors. So when our young men are socialized in such a way in which, beating and abusing women is the norm, their mother and father has issues and their father resort to abusing their mother, this eventually become wired or conditioned in their minds and they grow up believing that is the way to solve relationship problems.

I think that our men should be educated in the area of conflict resolution and anger management. We need to be aware that violence is not the solution, in fact, it makes the situation worse. If we ought to curb this problem so as to cease the past from repeating itself, then we need to first target our young men. They need to know that violence is not the answer. Moreover, our men need psychological help. A recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that suicide is one of the leading cause of adolescent deaths in the Western Hemisphere. Therefore if we see in signs of trouble or depression in our men, we need to recommend psychological help. It should not be perceived that "he is a man, he can deal with it."  

If abuse, violence and suicide is the way we choose to deal with our problems as men, then that is manifesting that we are weak and not the other way around. We should aim to eliminate the misconception that is parading within our society that when one abuse women that makes one a man, ludicrous! If we ought to get this done, it is going to be a community, society and national effort. We need to reach that point when we can realize that violence, suicide and abuse is not the answer.  

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com

Repeal the abortion law, really?

Sunday May 11, 2014, being mother’s day, I can imagine the amount of events that were kept and mother’s wishes in acknowledging and appreciating our mothers for their hard work and dedication. We also reflect on the fact that it is a child that gives women the status of a mother, whether by conception or adoption. However, we also consider the fact that MP Dr. Dayton Campbell in his contribution to the sectoral debate stated that the abortion debate needs to be revived and also repealed.

According to Dr. Campbell, “he was not proposing abortion as a means of contraception, nor that mere poverty should be a reason for it. He said it was of paramount importance that the adoption laws be revised, so that the service can be legally and professionally available to women.” Then if it is that it should not be used as a means of contraception nor poverty as a reason, then what is the purpose for revising it? On what basis should it be professionally and legally available to women?

Abortion activists proposed that nearly all abortions take place in the first trimester, when a fetus cannot exist independent of the mother. As it is attached by the placenta and umbilical cord, its health is dependent on her health, and cannot be regarded as a separate entity as it cannot exist outside her womb. So, should we accept that abortion be done ‘only’ in the first trimester? What about conjoin twins, where one maybe dependent upon the other for survival, should we kill the one that is dependent because it cannot survive independent of his/her sibling? People who are on life machines, should we kill them because they cannot survive independent of the machine? Is it that the more dependent you are, the more vulnerable you are to be killed?

I think what Dr. Campbell is really saying is that we should scrutinize the issue, weigh the pros and cons and decide whether or not the cons really outweigh the pros. But really, what are the pros? If it is that the abortion law is revised, what do we hope to achieve? Aren't there issues that are more important than debating abortion? Dr. Campbell is disguising the truth, what other purpose is there to revise the abortion law if not as a means of contraception or that poverty is the reason?

He said that poor women are in need of the service. In 2008, it cost between J$15000-$20000 to do an abortion, how much is it now? If they cannot find money to buy basic necessities, in these tough economic times where are they going to find the money to do an abortion? Will it be on the onus of tax payers to finance it, as is the case in some countries? In that same year the abortion rate in Jamaica (number of abortions per 1,000 women age 15-44 per year) lies between 31,251 and a 51,875. That would mean that approximately J$778,125,000 was spent on abortion (killing babies) per 1000 women. That is a lot of money. But one may reason, why bring a child into world if one is not financially and psychologically prepared? Will it not add to the poverty statistics?

Studies show that abortion leads to child abuse, and currently, the child abuse rate has increased by 40 per cent. LifeSiteNews.com reported on October 24, 2005: A new study published in the medical journal Acta Paediatrica has found that women who have had an abortion are 2.4 times more likely to physically abuse their children. The study, led by Priscilla Coleman of Bowling Green State University, looked at data taken from a survey of 518 low-income women in Baltimore who were receiving Aid to Families with Dependent Children and who had at least one child aged 12 years or younger. The data compared rates of child abuse and neglect among women who had experienced either an involuntary (miscarriage or stillbirth) or voluntary (induced abortion) pregnancy loss. Is this what we really want?

Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com