Acts of violence in schools must be stopped
Loading article...
THE EDITOR, Madam:
The world is at a crossroads, though it has been like that. However, while we cannot “blame di youth”, we must correct them and make restitution regarding our own errors.
Naturally, one must defend oneself if attacked, but retaliation, revenge, and undue provocation can splinter even the calmest soul. Sadly, instead of channelling rivalry and force into annihilating diseases like cancer, there is an unholy zeal to design weapons that inflict.
There is no innocent party. History makes that clear. Meaningful discussion must neither deny serious problems nor inflame them. “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
An expert can recognise a gun without its safety engaged; a novice may see a toy. Christmas gifts to our children.
Rastafarianism appears deeply peaceful, yet many argue that all religions reflect social hierarchies, including the oppression and silencing of women.
No one is beyond challenge, and debaters cannot always be held accountable for followers’ actions. Nevertheless, Martin Luther King Jr reminds us to confront “societal injustice” – a system that robs the poor to furnish luxury for a few – and he warned against “the madness of militarism” and the futility of violence.
In Jamaica, violence among students demands firm response. Videos circulating across the island must carry consequences – confiscated phones, school sanctions, and review by legal authorities, including the Office of the Children’s Advocate. Those responsible must compensate injured students and staff. What begins as unchecked schoolyard gangs can escalate into tragic domestic violence.
Schools must tighten supervision – especially in vulnerable spaces – and address bullying of teachers. Students, like adults, play their own politics and understand the rewards of aggression.
Teachers enduring such brutality deserve compensation, and administrators must act swiftly or risk appearing complicit.
Still, resilience persists.
HELEN-ANN ELIZABETH