JCF launches new Domestic Violence Intervention campaign

WITH APPROXIMATELY 8,500 cases of domestic violence reported at police stations islandwide last year, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has launched a new campaign, Domestic Violence Intervention Cross Country Tour, aiming to reduce that number for 2024.

The launch took place at the Half-Way Tree Transport Centre in the capital city on Tuesday with the support of the Ministry of National Security.

Speaking on behalf of the minister of national security at the launch, Elaine Oxamendi Vicet, head of corporate services, said that for far too long domestic violence has been shrouded in silence and shame, and perpetuated by societal trauma that failed to recognise its insidious nature.

“It is with profound urgency and a deep sense of purpose that I address you today… in the face of escalating incidence of domestic violence. We gather not merely as spectators, but as catalysts of change, committed to fostering safer homes and stronger communities ,” Ox amen di Vicet said.

“As we embark on this critical journey, we are confronted with sobering statistics that highlight the pressing need for action,” she said. “Today, I encourage all of you to challenge those norms.We challenge the notion that love is synonymous to control or violence. Instead, let us heed the words of Maya Angelo who said, ‘Love recognises no barriers’…. Let us embrace our responsibility to support victims and survivors to amplify their voices and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions ,” Ox amen di Vicet said.

She encouraged victims of abuse to visit the domestic violence intervention centres islandwide, as well as the Matilda’s Corner Police Station–which is specially designated to address domestic violence–to confront their issues.

OxamendiVicet told persons who avoid addressing domestic violence in their homes, or in other homes close to them: “Remember, if you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”

Several members of the JCF made presentations at the launch, engaged with passers-by, and urged those on social media who were seeing post-coverage videos, not to be passive bystanders, but active participants in the fight against domestic violence.

From left: Woman Constable Moesha Allen of the St Andrew South CSS and Senior Communication Strategist in the JCF Dennis Brooks were hosts at the launch of the Domestic Violence Intervention Cross Country Tour held on March 12 at the Half-Way Tree Transport Centre.

Joanie James of the Bureau of Gender Affairs shares information on gender-based violence to students of Tarrant Primary School at the launch of the Domestic Violence Intervention Cross Country Tour held on March 12 at the

ANTOINE LODGE/PHOTOGRAPHER Constable Sheldon Phillips sharing a moment with students of Tarrant Primary School.