Thwaites must stand firm on condoms in schools

By Sean Major-Campbell, Guest Columnist

I wish to lend my voice to support the minister of education, The Reverend Ronald Thwaites, on his position regarding the distribution of condoms in schools. We already have an abundance of mixed messages for children in the society at large.

There is an oversupply of sexual stimulation all around! On his way to the bus stop, little Johnny sees paintings on the nightclub which leave nothing to the imagination. When he gets on the bus, lyrical content over the speaker system surround him with clear messages regarding the necessity to prove sexual prowess. On his return home, the ritual is repeated in the afternoon. This time he is surrounded by adults who seem to be dressed for the beach or simply wearing the latest dare.

Upon arrival at home, little Johnny turns to the television where the daily fare, both local and cable, is flooded with advertisements with highly suggestive appeal to sex. Well, at bedtime, just for reinforcement, the night noises from neighbouring sound systems ensure that he can do a mental revision of the day's exposure.

Would the advocates for the distribution of condoms in schools have any interest in widening promotion for the following also?

1. Non-buggery promiscuity only.

2. Disregard for the age of consent.

3. Legalised availability of abortion services in the event of condom failure.

One ought not to welcome the idea of tuck-shop signage saying, 'Pick up a condom with your patty' or 'Stop by nurse for your weekend supply' or 'See guidance counsellor for lunch-time pickup'. It would most certainly be a different situation if a child goes to a pharmacy to acquire condoms, deliberately seeking to prevent conception or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. After all, let us not bury our heads in the sand. We know that some children will, for a number of reasons, engage in sexual activity.

Since some children will engage in sexual activity at school, should we therefore retrofit schools to ensure the safety of these children? Should special dormitories be equipped to promote privacy, safety, and security? Since some children will engage in sexual activity, should we promote the use of condoms and excuse adult staff in schools who may wish to join in the activity with children?

CONDOM APPS AND ALL

Since some children will engage in sexual activity, should concerned parents (in a condom-school environment) have access to a special app which allows them to see live pics around the school compound? If the Ministry of Education were to promote the distribution of condoms in school, would it be liable for broken condoms, and, therefore, responsible for meeting the costs of abortion?

Has anyone thought of investing more time and effort in speaking with children about choices, timing, and consequences? Do we underestimate the ability of our children to positively receive wholesome teaching and make responsible choices? And believe it or not, there are Jamaican children who are making wise choices regarding their educational, emotional, and spiritual development.

Yes! Let children be children. Children for schools, not children for brothels! Children for properly planned places of safety versus children for lock-ups! Issues affecting children should be addressed every month of the year and not just children's issues addressed for the month of May!

Let us all do whatever will prevent children from having to ask Michael Jackson's question, "Have you seen my childhood?"

Email feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com or seanmajorcampbell@yahoo.com.