BY. R.D. MILLER

The unexpected call:

This global reckoning on race relations and deep nationalized discriminatory business practices has seen sea 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 a racial stereotype of blacks. The domino effect has also seen other businesses once benefited from discriminatory practices dated back to the slave ships that have accepted symbolic gestures to confront its past.

For many on these shores, the economic and social disadvantage despite few educational and economic transformations, as it sits now, me too moment in the region is an uphill battle. Sadly, some leaders cannot even decide if or where to hold a protest, whom, what structure to move to steer this vessel for critical change.

Today’s global racial equity call is not like recent women’s me-too when they came forward and spoke up about their experience of inappropriate widespread sexual advances, harassment, and rape by powerful men and action was quick. The lack of a protest does not mean that there is not one brewing internally each day, but it will take more that tweets, likes, and looking to silence messengers based on political sides.

It will need youths, the community, political alliances for fundamental support of elected leaders not to lose hope, trust and motivation because change only occurs through collaborative voices

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

History has gently told us, between 1788 and 1838 workhouses in Jamaica, 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 experience steeper mobility subsequently carries forward even in more recent free migration elsewhere.

An delicate dance for equity:

Colonial occupation has established a legacy where only a new economic reconciliation path for all will establish the first step. Some argued, perhaps eliminating several debts for many Caribbean islands, but a mental rehabilitation from slavery despite independence or any financial compensation will remain a psychological drain.

Furthermore, with reported million of of dollars in debt owes to foreign investors, it is almost like one is in playing in 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?

If many of today’s buildings, imported goods and services contracts, ports, and manufacturing own by foreign investors who will sit at 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?

This reconciliation if coming to reality for equity will not base any on skin color; or economic widespread needs. It may be the people brought carve out how much pie one can keep maintaining their social class and advantage status. Sadly, many wealthy islanders who have got an academic opportunity and can now pay their way into that upper crowd where a good deal of bourgeoisie conscious colonial mentality still poverty minimizing poverty and other structural impediments because their necks economically could stay above water and considered a success..

Though these islands remain a place to forget your overdue bills and any other issues temporarily; where the smile remains broad, point of origin from the slave ships never in question, social disadvantage remain difficult to detect with the naked eye like bigotry seen elsewhere because many bear a resemblance to you. Conveniently some will yield power to maintain their status and as one diplomat noted, many are more foreign minded that the foreigner. As a result, this mentality will stymie any me-too moment for equality.

If the Caribbean me-too solution is “reparation” or a unilateral economic package for better schools, education, adequate healthcare, better salary for public servants, infrastructure, and new manufacturing will be an excellent approach. However, openly talking about reparations for the descendants of enslaved men and women, remains open debate on ideological grounds like the ocean as to where, who, when any economic wave will reach its shores.

A notable example: since COVID-19 pandemic washed on to these shores, it exposed the already poor healthcare system, ever-widen gap between the haves vs the have-nots, access to decent healthcare and the major disparities. But if local reports still highlighting 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; me-too generates more questions how to manage any potential reparation.

An economic and collaborative me-too even for 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 save many lives.

It seems rather that working with each other; it became apparent that it will come down to leaders who tell the truth on the number of infected individuals, fatality, and the exact cause of death, rather than who, delivered it there.The internal political struggle goes on, I believe, showing the independence of colonial doctrine by some. But today, the debt is higher and economic output is low.

Another obstacle for me too from the enduring mental impact:

Though slavery is no longer on paper, how does one support the casting of a new fishing net to have a [me-too] balance dance, when you have a judiciary system with holes in basic democracy and cultural tolerance for all? One must step back and rigorously test that, “Out of Many One People.” and any other motto after colonial rule.

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 Rastafarianism typically remains a social outcast based on an old colonial ideal, and this culture should only be practiced behind closed doors

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 represent just a thought.

By R.D.

The questions this October: There are plenty of definitions of domestic violence regardless of the type of relationship.

Simply put, it is not about a single fight. If it feels wrong, it is. However, domestic violence abuse comes in the form of physical, mental, social, and economic abuse.

It is never the victim’s fault, whether forced sexual activities; intimidation, social isolation, economic, manipulation, deprivation such as blocking access to medical treatment.

Even more problematic than the re-victimization attitude by some, as if they had it coming.

Often in our society, conversations on these cases begin with the interrogation of the victim.

“She could have run out of the situation .”

What caused her to be abused?….. Why didn’t she leave?

But no one ever asked him in jail, at school, church, or in the community; Why he abused her?

Often many victims, and even who are tasked to help may deflect or minimize.

The Data:

Men are almost always portrayed as the perpetrator, when they too can be the victim. However, the National Collation Against Domestic Violence noticed; one woman is killed by a partner, ex-spouse, or some dating partner every 14 hours. And every 20 minutes an intimate partner abuses someone. In 70-80% of cases, men psychically abused the woman before the murder.

Young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years old are 2.41 times as likely to experience physical violence. More than three million children witness domestic brutality in their homes every year. Children who live in homes where there is domestic violence equally suffer abuse or neglect at a more elevated rate as studies have shown.

Domestic violence cases comprise more than half of police response calls, more than robbery, motor vehicle theft, burglary as reported

Several academic international journals further state that domestic violence accounted for about 19 percent of the total burden of healthcare for women age 15-44. An estimated $4.1 to $5.8 billion resulted from victims who lose days of work alone, which is about 32,000 full-time jobs.

Additionally, one’s title or position does not exclude this type of behavior by a perpetration because power and control are still a form of violence against women.

Beyond the COCID-19 Mask.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic that has caused anxiety, and perhaps frustration from the unknown; and though the economic and physiological impact is still being assessed, experts also noted that more domestic violence cases are reported from individuals who are unemployed from closed businesses with little support.

Regrettably, in some of these communities that share part of our roots, culture, and heritage, domestic violence remains taboo. Despite the breathtaking backdrop and wide-open fields, beautiful shorelines, and white sand, often not all victims recognize a secure place to go for help including perpetrators of domestic violence.

The ongoing shadow.

Experts observed despite a few groups’ interventions; classes tend to stay in the shadow. They lack proper staffing, often closed abruptly afterward, and offenders frequently require the cooperation of law enforcement to make sure they attend treatment programs.

When treatment programs are available, the dropout rates stay high and victims will use cultural reasons as an excuse. The lack of resources choked off by poverty sometimes can be difficult to connect families or victims to programs throughout many Latin American, African and Caribbean communities; including other poor and developing areas according to the experts.

The historic struggle and time to stop the ongoing shadow.

The challenge society faces in some regions; wrongdoers who carry that 16th-century mentality that perceive women’s role in society as property, and bearer of their children have equally contributed to the cycle of violence.

The masculinity that tied to colonialism where slavery’s tragic period cannot be ignored the dehumanization of black females who were relegated to the kitchen as scholars have noted. Today, despite more rights and an evolving shift towards gender equity, equality, those scars still linger for countless women.

Sadly, especially for victims who lack resources coupled with hopelessness, it can lead to pathologize reality where victims may refuse to escape a toxic environment from fear, seek appropriate intervention or medical help.

Furthermore, even upward mobility into leadership roles for women does not always result in more awareness. Simply admitting to being a victim could cut their power and status. As a result, some remain in the shadow.

A deeper Look beyond the light, camera and dance:

This October has provided another chance to look deeper beyond gender-stereotype, masculinity, and sexuality that can hinder self-observation.

Even though many are still suffering mentality from the colonial tragic past,  today’s domestic violence behavior cannot always be attributed to the mistreatment of women today from that slavery period and it must be debunked.

We must move from minimization order acknowledge and establish a more protected space for victims and also get abusers’ treatment with accountability

Looking back at the HIV/AIDS epidemic and although medical advances made it a manageable disease, it was through awareness that reduced the stigma in this community.

No, you do not have to be a member of the LGBTQ community or a victim to speak up and support these groups.

Domestic violence also takes place in same-sex relationships. Men are victims of nearly three million physical assaults each year according to experts.

Today our society is becoming more accepting, and notwithstanding countless advocates pushing for equality, it has been an up until run and a high tide. Hostility remains in some social, religious, and political groups that see lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender relationships as a sin and morally wrong. This identity makes it rather difficult for a victim in these communities to look for and get help in an abusive relationship.

Let’s get real:

Though the church is important, a dear pastor’s sermon alone cannot resolve this issue. Many outdated laws throughout these regions; some dated back to a colonial period; especially in poor and developing countries need to represent a current approach. This will support victims to come forward if being abused. These communities must move from seeing only the symptoms, also the cause.

The nonintervention mentality must stop simply because a victim may not have a visible scar. Many reports have shown that victims continue to use the health care system more than others do after the violence has stopped.

Whether the US, Canada, or the UK; or a gay person who lives under a bridge in the Caribbean, being victimized should not make a difference: It hurts anywhere.

Has your community done enough especially to highlight this issue? Or maybe political leaders should begin to wear victims of domestic violence on a campaign button.

Searching for survival, creating awareness to change course, starts with you and your community. Please use your platform because it seems we are closer than before; but further apart in helping each other. Stay safe!

BY.R.D. MILLER

This global reckoning on race relations and deep nationalized discriminatory business practices have seen sea changes despite previous resistance. Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben’s Rice and Mrs Butterworth brand decided to change its logo from 130 years that many argued were a racial stereotype of blacks. The domino effect has also seen other businesses once benefited from discriminatory practices dated back to the slave ships have accepted symbolic gestures to confront its past.

Based on historians; the Caribbean islands fell under the ruling of a European nation; British, Dutch, and French. Additionally, Denmark, Portugal, and Sweden formerly occupied territories in the Caribbean.

An intricate dance for equity: The Caribbean tragic colonial history that has apprised us today, cannot be eradicated with a rope, stones, or fire as seen elsewhere pulling down historic generals or former slave owners statues; or call for the resignation of local managers who typically operate businesses in the region once benefited from these ships with tweets, high anger, and low action.

Me-too is not 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, reduction in violent crimes or political alliance. Simply put, any reconciliation is not going to be based on skin color, it is how much pie one can keep for his social class.

Furthermore, if many of today’s buildings, contracts, ports, and manufacturing have long been sold to foreign investors, which will sit at the table me-too may not represent the downtrodden.

Though these islands remain a place to forget your overdue bills and any other issues merely temporarily, the reality is that; some share the identical point of origin, bear a resemblance to you, but until now have the bourgeoisie conscious colonial mentality. And conveniently will yield power, overlook poverty once able to slightly move their necks economically, and considered a success.

Essentially, several wealthy islanders who have obtained an academic opportunity can now pay their way into that upper crowd will feast, dance, have business dealings still struggles to address an institutionalized class and racial system.

Subsequently, where does the Caribbean start for social and economic justice for Afro-Caribbean and ethnic minorities? The lack of a protest does not mean that there is not one brewing internal each day.

And since innocent people of color did not have a personal reservation, stringent rules and penal laws were created that transcends into systematic institutional racism today.

Today’s global racial equity call is not like recent women’s me-too when they came forward and spoke up about their experience of improper and inappropriate widespread sexual advances, harassment, and rape by powerful men and action was quick.

Colonial occupation has established a legacy where only a new economic reconciliation path for all will establish the first step. Some argued perhaps eliminating several debts for may Caribbean islands, but a mental rehabilitation from slavery despite independence remains a drain.

The re-balancing question: The debt burden undoubtedly remains a national debate to develop a new economic road map, but can they all afford to protest earnestly for fundamental change; and how do you bite off the nervous hands that are merely sustaining you?

If the Caribbean me too solution is “possible reparation” or a unilateral economic package for better schools, education, adequate healthcare, infrastructure, and new manufacturing is an excellent approach.

And how does one support the casting of a new fishing net, when you have a judiciary system with holes on basic democracy and cultural tolerance for all? One must step back and rigorously evaluate that, “Out of Many One People.”

Soul searching waves: Undoubtedly, the Caribbean continues to anxiously search for its soul, and if one’s hair was no longer acceptable in the local school, what next, Rasta only bathroom, bus, dining area, etc. The styling of one’s culture may explain the abundance of bleaching cream being bought in the region for acceptance by many.

The ruling describes a considerably complex broader story emerged recently of British insignia, a medal that is worn by the heads of state, the governor-general of Jamaica that depicted a Caucasian person on the neck of a black person. Though dehumanizing, how do you draw a balance if laws carries similar weight on its people.

History has gently told us, between 1788 and 1838 workhouses in Jamaica the most significant British West Indian colony was marginalized in conditions encountered by most of its population that impacted local industries, like finance and manufacturing.

A notable example: since COVID-19 and its impact on sustainable tourism, it only exposes the Caribbean lack of collaboration as these island stances regarding which one has a firmer grip on the pandemic for the next terrorist dollar. Quite frankly, in my humble option, it will come down to who tells the truth on the number infected, fatality and actual cause, rather than who, essentially delivered it there.

Most importantly; an economic and collaborative me-too even for 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 save numerous lives.

BY R.D. Miller

In a recent report by Leta Hong Fincher for CNN, she noted that a “United Nations and Inter-Parliamentary Union report highlighted that 10 of 152 elected heads of state were women, and men made up 75 percent of parliamentarians, 73 percent of managerial decision-makers and 76 percent of the people in mainstream news media.”

From the archived of achievement:

Since the death of Eugenia Charles, the first woman to hold the post of Prime Minister of Dominica, on July 21, 1980–on June 14, 1995, there has been no other to date in Dominica. Today, the selection of leaders resembles a “beauty contest” and where their image is more important than skills or economic policies.

Except for the late Eugenia Charles, Portia Simpson, and Kamla Persad were defeated when they ran for re-election. It created more critical analyses of how they lost rather than their political accomplishments.

They were too tough, unable to connect to shifting demographics; something disconnected them from the working class, oppressed, but rarely spoke of hidden sexism, misogynist views, low voter turnout, and parliamentary control in which some representatives appeared not to recognize their power.

While not all women often agree on the same measures, particular political approach even values based on experience, the pressure for socio-economic equality, upward mobility, gender equity, many scholars noted that calls for creative collaboration to have a stronger representation in the Caribbean and elsewhere remains in the mirror.

The elephant in the room:

The incremental rise of populism never works in the Caribbean, especially today. It typically leads to what seems to be personal financial gains of the elected office. The legislative elections should undoubtedly focus on the next generation, rigorous debates in which the legitimate concerns and interests of voters are properly aligned with their economic future.

Will she ascend to lead the National People’s Party (PNP) of Dr. Peter Phillips, MP and Leader of the Opposition?

Will the Honorable Dr. Phillips, who holds the power, surrender to her or any other comrade after decades in government? This is still a crossroads as far as changing guards are concerned.

Mr. Phillip has been one of Jamaica’s finest legislators and experience contributed remarkably to the nation. However, some probable voters may consider it is time to cede power, as the demographics have shifted to a younger group.

But can he instantly remove the barriers that women often face in politics, from a decade of a stained mirror woven an old colonial and slavery mentality, where only a few get through, or can he use his skills and talents to capture the imagination of young voters to change course, or continue to steer this political ship into an iceberg?

The fact is, it seems, this party ship captain leadership will take if not everyone, a majority of the crew if it sinks based on the polls with them.

But with the COVID-19 pandemic, stagnated economic issues, and high employment, whoever is selected will need a strategy to reduce organized crime, violence attracts new investments that benefit all, and aggressively reduce the divide between the haves and have-nots.

Often policy in the Caribbean seems to operate as an apprentice in a local mechanic’s workshop. An opportunity to show his skills only when the supervisor has no choice, or can no longer steer, so we spread.

Unfortunately, holding on to power creates division, disconnect, and a stalemate of new ideas for advancement, and to create a pathway for the next women leaders.

Of course, some will push back with force to make it look like it’s a day in church, and I get it, they’re all politicians, and I’m not in the room. The parliamentary system throughout the region, for these potential women leaders to climb to the top, they must win the approval of the men in the system.

A delicate balance:

Maybe term-limits should be considered where communities across the region must ask themselves; each election cycle with the same guards, are they feel safer regardless and have the new platform for economic prosperity on many fronts, jobs, education, access to good and affordable healthcare regardless of party affiliation, especially in poor and developing countries plagued with crime and economic stagnation.

Every vote has consequences, but losing an election does not mean ascending mobility for women in the Caribbean is lifeless. The appointment of more women to political office is essential; in particular, teenage girls to have a role model, better education, job opportunity, health, and security.

People genuinely believe, “democracy of the people, by the people, and for the people,” but it is an oligarchy system where elected leaders get to select who they figured out the community will recognize from an emotional connection on both sides to provide them with increased control on personal power disguised as working for the community.

This is not a brutal censure from a political aim of view. Many elected representatives use appointed positions to state that they are inclusive. But purposeful exploitation also comes in all forms, even at the top, with political titles, because if they can only hear her opinion voice after the meeting.

The Mother’s Day tweets to your constituents are great, but an economic plan to lift these young women out of poverty and crime should support them, and others that may be trapped in a violent relationship.

Handing out few grocery bags is always good for the poor, but if followed by a camera for a 30-second video to tweet while asking the recipients to say thank you to the leaders, the exploitation of the borders. Of course, it offers a temporary solution and the following day, but the long-term viability remains murky.

Facing the reality head on.

This is not the time to go on an apology tour because if the official titles for many women in the region are “former,” because it cannot become a comfort zone. Very rear men apologize for their failure according to many studies.

According to Pew’s analysis, and an academic study noted that about 50 percent of women in the labor market today have an undergraduate degree matching the number of men educated at college. Sadly, these academic accomplishments still have barriers in developing leaders and business owners to design a model for the later generation.

The voice of young people in the region for them to emerge as the next leaders still need to know there is hope. This is not the time to go on an apology tour because if the official titles for many women in the region are “former,” because it cannot become a comfort zone. Very rear men apologize for their failure according to many studies.

I’m not an expert on women’s politics, and although more women have become politicians in the region, their male counterparts seem to remain in the shadows.

They must see the barriers or tenacious issues that women encounter as one of them and not as the women on the separate part of the house working together to change the barriers in poor communities.

BY R.D. Miller

Part I- Finding the right balance

Following the Coronavirus (COVID-19) spill onto the coast of the Caribbean Islands. It included similar waves of fear, uncertainty, and anxiety we have seen elsewhere. The news conferences and push for compliance by elected officials have reduced the risk of this communicable disease, including death rates to date based on local reports.

The pandemic also underscored the tension between political party leaders, local communities, the science to the best way to mitigate the potential spread and the safety of front-line staff.

It equally served as the political basis for the next local election campaign. Each opposing side accused the other of the nation’s shortcomings from preparedness; economic loss, corruption, to bed space available, and other resources present to cope with the pandemic.

But figuring out precisely how deadly the coronavirus will be, how many people are infected, and the exact number of deaths being reported remains a key question facing epidemiologists and local communities.

Like many other places, in which the tourist industry plays an essential role in the local economy, and a huge part of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Managing this pandemic effectively is critical, and it has created a delicate balance between local business operations, job losses, tourism, curfew, public safety, and long-term economic sustainability.

Part II –The other public health crisis off the ventilator

These issues may demonstrate external influence such as drug trafficking, and illegal firearms being imported, but handling crime requires more collaboration to curtail criminal enterprises; and what are some of the internal driving factors.

And while local law enforcement cannot attribute the uptick in violence where deaths may surpass the pandemic numbers, it serves as another public health crisis behind the mask, awareness, curfews, and lock-downs, or political deflection.

The answers many of these communities will seek for years are, they may understand that the Coronavirus crime wave threatens the economy, but between economic downturns from the pandemic and the increases in crime rates, which one do you hold accountable, the virus or the leaders?

Although violence is ubiquitous; unfortunately, some regional media outlets in these communities often compare to minimize, and that is not a solution. It creates a message of moral equivalence that is deviating from local crime reality and other systematic issues.

At some point, if all the apples under the tree are rotten, you may now have to look at the tree.

Between January and February 2020, reports show that Trinidad and Tobago recorded over 73 murders. If this trend continues, it may surpass 2019, 536 murders–the second-highest in Trinidad’s history for one year.

If this trend continues, it assumes an honorific title no civilized nation should be proud of in the region as the highest murder rate per 100, 000 local inhabitants. The other number often hidden, the death rate is also edging up from an average of 35.8 to now over 40.1 based on several crime analysis reports.

Though identifying where the specific crime might happen can be difficult, what are the social disadvantages and, economic barriers that make joining a gang more attractive for many youths- to even break social distancing rules?

A nation can curtail a pandemic through travel restrictions and other government programs, but it must begin to analyze troubled spots that led to ongoing crime.

Realistically it is not an overnight solution to sufficiently address neglect, re-victimization, school fights that can escalate, weapons accessibility, school dropouts, Juvenile delinquency, use of drugs or alcohol. Leading experts argued that if these issues are not handled early can escalate into more problems.

Leaders must know the warning signs: low self-esteem, mental health issues like depression, lack of parental guidance, anger, economic inequality, and social disadvantage to address these subjects. 

While these debates continue with each changing guard of the people’s house, horrific crimes have not waned. Today, it seems nowhere, or no one is safe from the pulpit to schools. It looks like criminals; gangs abducting students, murdering intellectuals, sports icons, youths, entrepreneurs; business owners, and cases surrounding domestic violence which is on the rise, according to local reports.

Part III- Violent crime does not discriminate like COVID-19 regardless of the political side in power

Studies have shown that on average about 40 percent of the Caribbean population identifies crime and security-related issues more severe facing their countries, further so than poverty or inequality. And while leaders debate, the emotional and physical effects linger, and sadly, there will be more victims.

In contrast, Bermuda, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, and other countries maintain lower rates. Of course, they are less populous, and although some remain under colonial rule and well-managed government, there are also reported smuggling of illicit drugs, and firearms, organized crime, and criminal gangs, but these islands have a much better handle on crime. Bermuda recorded its first murder in two years: five in 2018 and zero (0) murders in 2019.

Reports also show that crime costs countries in Latin America and the Caribbean approximately three percent of GDP on average, representing over US$350 billion in policing, private spending, violent victimization, and capital investments.

The hidden victims

Her story reverberates with other victims, and the data shows that a cycle of violence repeats itself. Often a quick media clip is published as empathy, but only gives the impression of concern, while victims in these communities have barely to no follow-up support. Besides, many of these crimes go on unsolved.

Today, more high-powered weapons are being displayed on social media only seen in war zones. And though the local authorities have seized few; there may be gloomier days if these criminals continue roaming these streets.

They are too many reports of innocent people embarking on their daily lives, hard-working business owners contributing to the local economy, but their success seems to place them at high risk for these criminals.

Society must get back to taking care of each other, and that is how a nation reduces the feeling like it is on trial after each crisis

Maybe it is time to conduct a thorough background investigation on who are the employees in these critical public service jobs because they too play a pivotal role in the nation‘s safety and security.

Many experts cautioned that these trends support that you may have a failed state or edging closer.

Part IV– The judiciary role-separate but equal:

Even though the court’s pivotal role continues as it always has been – to use sentencing policy to cut violence and enhance public safety. However, given today’s noticeable uptick in violence, the death penalty debate seems to emerge every few years.

Though it is ultimately cruel, inhuman, and degrading punishment, many argued, some say it may deter these criminalities, that has diminished the tranquility of the nation.

Amnesty international opposed the death penalty and many countries have stopped such punishment for capital crimes.

If Jamaica and other high crime islands or any other regional areas still practice death by hanging, will it alter an offender’s behavior?

While debating Just Deserts, an Eye for an Eye, or Incapacitation. However, leaders must get to the root of the socio-economic decay because the tough penalty alone is not a solution. No modern nation can lock itself out of violence?

Even Though a term of confinement and sanctions may deter the offender and other individuals from committing acts of violence and increase general safety. Many of these poor and developing nations lack a Re-entry strategies.

The sequence of violence being reported, these islands have the data. Therefore, it is not total gloom or despair, but it needs a bold approach, and not we are going to because that is not a strategy nor minimization is a solution.

Throughout this essay, I’ve pointed to several key areas I believe are fundamental in addressing these issues. However, I have not shied away from the realism on the ground. Nevertheless, addressing criminality demands a forceful balanced approach.

The nature of a crime seems to capture more attention while the root of criminality diminished in these community debates. Sure, no nation cannot forecast criminal behavior for several reasons, but the reactionary application is not a long-term solution.

Furthermore, whether arming business owners or handing over more guns to citizens offers a solution. Most times, criminals target legal gun owners for their weapons, and some may be behind these new crimes.

If these communities feel that crime and other economic issues are being overlooked, or quick and rigid application serves as a public relations purpose, any strategies tend to have more questions than answers.

Walking a tight rope

Officers must serve communities along a close political line. They are often exposed to imminent danger, overexerted hostility, and possibly underpaid.

The crucial role for officers of these communities is like discovering a COVID-19 vaccine as organized criminals who may suffer from mental illness, frustration, or feel untouchable due to political connections will not hesitate in inflect fear.

They will take anyone’s life in their path like the virus because they do not feel bound by the laws, and rules that have been established in a society.

Some are using this unprecedented period of unease, anxiety, uncertainty, and stress to unleash chaos on local communities. Unfortunately, a few will stand up for some of those accused of horrific criminal acts, camouflage, or refuse to provide valuable information to make local law enforcement more effective.

They cannot continue blaming law enforcement if they refuse to speak when they have critical information. These communities may have mass serial murderers on the local streets if they do not deal with these crimes with the support of the community.

Many are being told not to call the police believing that they will not show up to help. Some strains between law enforcement in these communities and what they are facing today are self-inflicted and others routed in a history of systematic distrust going back to colonial rule,

Part V–The criminogenic risk and needs:

Social disadvantages not only in Jamaica but impoverished youths in poor and developing countries who feel abandoned from their economy with insufficient support to establish a solid ground to a positive direction, misconduct, and disorder become more attractive.

Often, these individuals have overlooked criminogenic risk factors that include anti-social cognition. They routinely exhibit risk factors like anti-social and personality behavior. They are angry, have inadequate education, and low job skills or training, employment, suffer from illegal substance abuse mental health issues. sadly, many are also victims of crime and need counseling.

Many spoke of the frustration with their leaders in the face of expectations, only to be stuck in a similar place after each election cycle. And though the economic and psychological implications of COVID-19 are still being assessed, there are more reports of domestic violence cases and robberies. Experts noted many people are now at home with little or no support and are unemployed, and may have had previous issues.

Today, it seems high powered weapons have replaced discussion to minimize minor conflicts. And with the lack of resources for resolution, disagreements degenerate into brutal personal aggression and killings. Many troubled individuals frequently have limited adaptive abilities and are quick to commit crimes against anyone, including family members in any conflict, through vigilante justice.

Crime reduction does not always achieve its goals form of imprisonment. Many incarcerated offenders struggle after the reintegration process with stigmatization, inhuman treatment, and the lack of resources to turn their lives. Using a general classification of all convicted offenders, whether inside or outside the prison walls, also creates tension and isolation.

Often many individuals who were deported lack resources to reintegrate, and yes, some are missed-classified and blamed for a crime even when innocent to deflect.

The recruitment of good staff is as vital as the assessment and treatment of mental health, substance abuse, psycho-sexual evaluation, vocational training, and more investment in social workers. These interventions targeting criminal behavior towards community re-integration will create a fundamental change to address the causes of this problem.

Though it is not an easy task, fighting crime is more than an election talking point. To eradicate these pockets of criminals and build public trust, they need an all-hands-on-deck approach.

Public safety risk requires a multi-faceted approach ranging from rehabilitation, counselors, social workers, mentors, community advocates, and investment in these communities with the participation of law enforcement agencies to entertainers.

The correction institution, legislation, and judicial system including politicians where often the silence is deafening must speak beyond the elected or elite bubble; and address it as a public health issue.

Part VI-The social intelligence struggle

While many victims search for answers, rarely find both political sides call for the disruption of these criminal gangs in outlying parishes and counties. In achieving a common conviction, joint statements send a persuasive message to these criminals that the nation will not tolerate the chaos and mayhem.

Community and constituency leaders need to work together to condemn these barbaric ideas that target police; reduce robberies, murders, and kidnapping. They must accept the reality to eradicate these pockets of criminals and build back social trust regardless of socioeconomic status.

Many will claim patriotism from their gated community, locally or from abroad while they continue to influence the political system only to protect their profit margin while violence and systematic issues rage on.

The silent generation can no longer close their eyes hoping these atrocities will go away. Governance seems to have come down to a delicate balance between fear and holding on to the ballot box.

It appears that some leaders aren’t courageous and willing to tick off these criminals. They are walking a tight rope pushing back to peddle a delightful story while the systematic issues continue.

Part VII– Can the island pride still hold?

Despite these gloomy clouds, it is not a total tragedy on these banks; [Jamaica] and other islands’ economies will rebound, and the residents are still resilient. There are reports of modernization and recovery projects, like modern highways and technological upgrades.

Some government programs will help in the long run, but the widening gap between the rich and the poor has been stagnant for decades and maybe the cause of several issues that need to be addressed.

You cannot give up because if these criminals win, there go these beautiful islands and other places.

Stay safe!

By R.D. Miller

Before COVID-19 surfaced globally, conflicts seem everywhere; from racial, economic-divide over wages and the widen gap-between the haves and have-nots; environmental, housing price skyrocketing, political corruption, gentrification debate, gun-violence, violence against women, student loans, missing students, border crossings. These events seem to have become the daily norm, and some of us have become immune; or turned away.

To be clear many of us are products of our environment by birth or migration. This is not an indictment on success and freedom and despite the stability, it can change rapidly.

Since COVID-19 emerged, the price of oil has dropped and the global financial market crashed. Major airlines are cutting back as much as 40 percent of operations, stores have reduced hours and financial experts are predicting a global recession.

This new normal has affected everyone. I also find myself the last few days explaining to a few people along the shopping aisle that the only difference in some store brand, after being asked about an item in my cart; because items they are accustomed to buying were no longer on the shelves.

These markets are also a place that serves as a social connection hub. These global markets are like any major chain, but carries a wide range of Caribbean, African and Asian and Latin products.

Late Friday evening, I was getting prepared to stack up two-weeks of supplies as suggested by the experts. Shortly after I  pulled into an international store parking space; someone I have never seen  on this block in over 15 years of shopping at this location, pulled beside me.  He did  not look like the typical customers who navigates these  isles, or this expensive vehicle seen on this side of town.

“Maybe, this person owns the mall,” I thought. From the initial hello, that led to; “have you been here before?”

“Yes, “this is where I shop for many years,” I replied.

“I heard that the sore has lots of disinfection stuff here because it is nowhere else.”

“They have plenty of items, and a hidden treasure in the community, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetable,” I replied.

“Have a good one,” he said. “You too” I replied.

We went in together. I pointed him to the detergent area and disappeared into a separate aisle. This is one of many stories since the outbreak people have discoveries new shopping areas that were overlooked. Will it change the way we interact with each other, even over cleaning products, a roll of toilet paper? I remain hopeful.

While experts recommend social distance for our safety, it has brought people in a strange way across all strata in life. It has taken on a new psychological assessment, structured in baseline epidemiological analysis from identifying risk factors to how, and where we get the supplies we need for survival.

Curtailing a challenging widespread disease, society will examine politicians and organizations. Each attempt at the decision process to have better medical systems in place, to well-trained staff is pivotal to mitigate these issues.

Sadly, without deep analysis both qualitative and quantitative data on many fronts, places like the Caribbean islands, poor and developing countries, the dynamics on preparedness are suspicious, distrust woven from colonialism, inequality, racism, violence, and poverty where fear takes over fact, panic will set in as local governments try to put out the best to ease frustration.

Sure, there is fear because of what experts reported where it started in China. You find these establishments especially restaurants, suffered from the lack of customers, as some believed that these people just arrived at their location from China.

I have also seen many new social media accounts created. It has helped people to stay connected and educated across race, culture, and socio-economic status.

In previous epidemics, one group was identified and immediately isolated, now COVID-19 rips; it is no longer them over there, that group, color,  class, race, or location. Today, it may be the person who owns the mall where you buy your groceries, or the one sitting in the board room on a policy meeting.

As COVID-19 trudges on like the once colonial quest taking everything in its path and forced society to adapt, such as; the Galápagos turtles, where one has a longer neck because its survival depends on eating from trees, and the other has a shorter neck as its survival depends on the grass it grazes.

BY. R.D. Miller

A delicate balance

After this unprecedented COVID-19 health crisis, what will be the job satisfaction rate of these facilities, healthcare systems, and nurses scorecards across the Caribbean?

This new potential wave of “Brain Drain’ from COVID-19 is not for the lack of political gratitude, or photo-ops, or alliance with one party, but values medical experts contend critically in keeping them on the sand.

It is an intrinsic value that surrounding one’s opportunity to grow within an organization and the extrinsic value; pay and job security according to experts.

It seems a few of these islands could use an updated Occupation Health and Safety laws. The lack of such regulation I believe undermines protection; ethics in medicine and the integration between the relations with their patients.

The role of a nurse is equally important as a good doctor, a police officer, a teacher, or a safe community. Their presence often allows families to head back to work, or get time off from staying overnight on a hard chair waiting for an answer from a doctor.

A nation’s workforce remains a key factor in its ability to innovate and compete in a global economy. Retaining a nation’s long-term health and socio-economic stability represents its ability to develop leaders and produce action-oriented people with valuable skills. You can only accomplish that with incentives to keep your people on the ground.

The decision to stay

Well-sought-after working visas have become a one-way ticket out for many that can lead to permanent residency as demand will increase from countries like US, Canada, the UK; and other nations affected by COVID-19. These nurses will be like stockpiles gowns, masks and ventilators should there be another pandemic.

But keeping nurses prepared is bigger than an economic package from trillions of stimulus dollars passed by government globally. It cannot replace these professionals and thousands of lives lost on the front line.

Today, a new analysis of caregiving widely observed in hospitals; the difficulties in balancing work and family responsibilities and emotions during this pandemic, now under the microscope.

Sure, government policies provided monetary relief, supplies, helped the financial markets, create economic activities from business closures, and unemployment, but experts noted that imported nurses have had a major impact on patients’ health, care systems economic and social development.

Collaboration, as experts noted, promised by the Caribbean Single Market and Economy remains emblematic as the global hunt for talent continues. It looks more of a competition for equipment; 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 members of the CARICOM States have better medical attention, but ensuring especially poor areas receive adequate treatment. In addition, addressing current  medical system that has outgrown its aging population

Looking for an upgrade:

Protecting vital medical workers from now on will not be about competency, or how many press conferences held, but ensuring that nurses have a better standard to keep potential turnover low. There must be a relationship between job satisfaction and organizational commitment among these region health care systems.

Before COVID-19, concerns regarding upgraded technology, supplies and other equipment to save lives, even newborn vibrate through these wards. Some facilities the claim jeopardize both nurses’ and patients’ lives by putting them at a higher risk of an infectious disease.

Several health care professionals argued that COVID-19 gaps and facilities operating like an experimental drug with little accountability, while pundits’ praise leaders for their interest overlooking the systematic failures on many fronts to create changes.

The reality:

The next flight out by these nurses is not a result of leadership style, gender equality, abandonment of their nationality or the lack of education; several have enormous student loans, safety concerns from high crimes, reports of underpaid with a little support system to ease emotional scars.

Many reports notes that the worst-affected countries see more than 80% of their “brains” emigrating abroad, such as for Haiti, Jamaica, and Africa to several small states with fewer than one million workers.

One nurse talked about vacations are being missed from the fear of losing employment, and that could reset the current salary after years of solid service. Her plans are an economic opportunity for a better work-life balance, (spouses, parents, children) hoping prepared system and organizational management as her role remains the same.

Although global movements may be restricted, a country like Cuban has supplied doctors and nurses with many other diseases and pandemic areas. Regardless of their political system or who received payment for their services, wherever they land, lives are being saved, as caregivers are becoming of great importance globally.

Over the next decades, the aging population will increase both hospitals and home-based care, according to healthcare professionals and scholars, and nurses will become more critical to meet the demands..

These nations will have to plug these gaps, and their medical system upward-mobility will diminish with migrated talents. Studies have shown some nurses make good salaries, but this profession should command excellent salaries, such as one in math, finance, science, or a career in petroleum, according to business reports..

The complexity of care

Although there are excellent doctors in the region in private facilities, there were reports that several practices closed because they too lack the proper resource, collaboration to conduct tests locally, and further educate their patients.

Many nurses will remain along these warm and beautiful shores avoiding brutal winters, but the region must also develop incentives for others to come back who have left to study medicine in countries like Germany, Cuba, the US, and other places.

There are reports of few modernization throughout the region, but cannot have trust in the system if some leaders seem to have a “pre-existing condition” that is a defensive and basic question asked about numbers of people tested for COVID-19 muted, but stimulus check being handed out are published, while dissenting views seen as antagonistic.

Caregivers’ experience imported, or local should not be polarized or exploited through politics. They are beyond a quick stop by a local shop, pave a road a week before an election; hand out a few dollars, then sell a false sense of community only to be missing until the next election cycle must stop.

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Her Story/Their Story

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

And from Guyana, Somattie Keosoram, Naiee Singh Naiee, 31, an ad­min­is­tra­tive of­fi­cer, and Sharon Burnett, 56 a shopkeeper.

Violence in general, especially domestic is a public health issue along many of these shores.

Studies have shown that on average about 40 percent of the Caribbean population identifies crime and security-related issues more severe facing their countries, further so than poverty or inequality. And while leaders debate, the psychological effects continue.

Does it matter if you are a teacher, student, wife, mother, aunt, or sister if the murder rates and violent crimes especially against women are high?

The chance of being kidnapped, robbed, raped, or murdered is also high. Unfortunately, before you finish reading this article, there will be other victims.

Today, weapons have replaced discussion to minimize minor conflicts. And with the lack of resources for resolution, disagreements easily degenerate into brutal personal aggression and killings. Often, these perpetrators have overlooked criminogenic risks factors that include anti-social cognitions and behavior. (Domestic Violence-Podcast)

The silence is deafening

Often selective amnesia kicks in and it can no longer be a strategy. Minimization represents not a plan, tweets do not conjure fundamental support, nor frequent comparison to another country offers a solution.

Furthermore, a sudden visit to a victim’s home is good, but without resources or a quick policy that lacks getting to the root of the problem, women’s concerns at the table and the community included is not a long-term solution.

Though violence is ubiquitous, and there are many reports of mentally deranged or racist individuals with easy access to high-powered weapons killing or targeting innocent victims. However, the reported one or two-per-day killings on these shores are adding up regardless of location.

It seems that the same record plays over and over, we are going to look for solutions and where local concerns voices seem to be drowned out. Additionally, these atrocities must be solved thereby, capturing potential serial killers off local streets and communities.

How many women before these latest victims have gone missing, abused, or murdered, and those stories remain unsolved?

Far too often a consistent trend,” the police investigation is ongoing, while vulnerable victims families search for sufficient answers. When does the “next button stops along these shores, and many other places?

Even more problematic than the re-victimization attitude by some, as if they had it coming.

Often in our society, conversations on these cases begin with the interrogation of the victim.

“She could have run out of the situation .”

What caused her to be abused?….. Why didn’t she leave?

But no one ever asked him in jail, at school, church, or in the community; Why he targeted her?

Often many victims, and even who are tasked to help may deflect or minimize. We recognize the traditionalists, the “silent generation, “as experts noted, are individuals of an era raised to be seen and not heard.

A victim is killed by a spouse, ex-spouse, or some dating partner every 14 hours. And every 20 minutes an intimate partner abuse someone. Domestic violence accounted for about 19 percent of the total burden of healthcare for women age 15-44 according to experts and the center for domestic violence.

This issue is beyond a few tweets with a distorted sense of empathy. They should be galvanizing more and demand change and official accountability because “we are going to, “does not prevent fractures, third-degree burns, lacerations, disfiguring scars, and finally death in many cases.

On many Caribbean islands, and other places, Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America; domestic violence remains taboo in some cultures. It has an extensive history of masculine chauvinistic (macho) status.

Many still view street harassment as normal and few will admit that is a critical problem. Habitually this behavior 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 for the offenders.

The upward socioeconomic mobility of women and other victims may have become a threat to some males because; she is now independent, confident, more educated, and that severely threatens traditional thinking where gender role defined and she was better suited or relegated to the kitchen.

This violence seems to be on a trajectory like in other places where ethnic, cultural, and religious cleansing from geopolitical conflicts. Human rights reports have shown, the vulnerability of women being targeted, and if they do not comply with orders many, are molested, brutalized, or killed.
 

The cycle, disconnect, and long-term impact

Many children who live in homes where there is domestic violence equally suffer abuse or neglect at a higher rate. This violence develops a pattern of psychological and overcoming this traumatic experience suffers long-term critical consequences in which some also become abusers.

Over three million children witness domestic violence in their homes every year. Some grew up falsely believing that if because concerned mum stayed it was ok. However, the lack of effective responses; resources, and often accountability by local law enforcement and judiciary; coupled with inadequate training for first-line responders to handle these violent cases, the cycle continues for helpless victims.

Often these victims’ stories are sometimes politicized, deflected, or little condemnation by elected officials to not disturb the tourist ships from docking, to keep hotels at capacity, or simply put, they likewise are indirect victims of the impact or fear to speak up.

Leaders must invest more resources in Community Policing, treatment programs, victim services, and youth organizations to identify these troubled individuals, job training, and rehabilitation to prompt a mental shift on how they mitigate conflicts.

These local systems must be able to identify the criminal symptoms with psycho-sexual assessments before you can deploy a vaccine.

The uptick in violence, especially against women, needs critical examination as to the cause supported by policies to offer more protection and support. Despite laws and women’s rights movements in the region dated back to the 1950s like in The Bahamas, led by Dr. Doris Johnson. However, several of these laws are outdated and may need to be amended to meet today’s concerns

Very often, it is a 48-hour news cycle, guilt, social media bliss, and promises as if governance can 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 to follow-up for the victims.

Confronting violence against women is making sure that their community remains a great place to live, work and play with the ability to provide resources to underprivileged victims, food, and personal care items, and a safe place to tell their story without being revictimized.

Poverty, inequality, stigma, and polarization make critical resources difficult to offer family or personal counseling. Intervention would allow treatment, victim services: mediation or shelters. Throughout many Latin American and Caribbean communities, according to the experts, access to these services would change course.

Sadly, experts noted that some group interventions stay in the shadow, lacks proper staffing, closed shortly afterward, and the convicted offenders frequently require the cooperation of law enforcement to make sure they attend treatment programs.

Victims continue using the health care system more than others do, and for several years after.

Today, it seems some elected leaders suffer from selective amnesia regarding violence; robberies to ongoing missing students. They are often caught up in the complexity between policing, politics, and the community.

Vigilantly justice on top does not develop thriving communities. It only shows a deeper systematic issue in the communities and people must speak up to reduce violence. “See something wrong, say something.””

Maybe an alternative to reduce this senseless violence.

China’s increasing presence globally studies and publications in recent years have shown making new inroads into the Caribbean islands and Africa. They have experienced a cultural explosion of Chinese companies and other recent investments.

These private investments reported offering a path to better economic growth and safety.

I reluctantly began hypothesizing given the Chinese influence on these shores. I entertain some deep thoughts and looked into this trend, and after calling a few experts and friends. They may offer a more robust public safety strategy to safeguard their investments.

If they should the Chinese takeover, high crime islands public safety operations, it may prevent more women from domestic violence killings and other criminal issues?

This idea is less than likely because reports have shown China has human rights issues like forcing Mandarin, as it has done the Uyghurs, an ethnic minority. But importing another approach to addressing these public health issues may work since they already invested and own key areas of these shores. This intrusion may upgrade technology and training.

This controversial practice according to scholars “who are their friends and all the enemies.”If these were to happen, violent criminals would face harsh restrictions of movements, and that alone is what many victims face in these toxic relationships.

These victims need your voice.

Violence against women continues to mask in the shadows in these communities. These victims deserve your support, and an action plan, after she gathers the courage to come forward.

There is a struggle, especially in the higher crime islands, to differentiate ideology from policies to combat this malevolent that is getting worse. Even if it decreases the number of cases of children who have gone missing or later found dead, it may be worth consideration.

The system needs to develop better assessments and interventions, mental health, and substance abuse. Often social media only focus on dense areas of crimes while rural areas have gone unnoticed. Speaking about domestic violence, build up confidence for the next generation of awareness. We can no longer accuse it of culture, where the objectification of women remains normal.

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).