Statement by Hon. Philip Telesford: Minister for Social and Community Development Housing and Gender Affairs, on recent acts of violence in the country.
Good morning fellow Grenadians, at home and in the diaspora, I speak to you in my capacity as Minister for Social and Community Development Housing and Gender Affairs, and as a concerned husband and father.
I know that we all desire a society of peace, stability and prosperity where each one of us would have an equal opportunity to make our contributions. It may seem, at times, that this desire is out of reach, and as patriotic citizens, this weighs heavy on us. But we should never give up hope, because by the Grace of God everything is possible.
Recently, there has been much talk about the growth of crime in our society, especially among our males. Being a man and father of 3 boys, I choose to share my thoughts with you on this subject.
I challenge the males among us, who may be contemplating acts of violence, to stop and ask yourself the following questions:
- What happens when someone gets killed in a violent attack by his peer?
- Do I get the chance to live a normal life after I kill someone?
- Is there a judgement day?
From time-to-time emotions run high, people get angry, and react in ways that are inconsistent to the peace and love that we have become accustomed to. I call upon you to THINK before you act, hold your tongue and walk away from company and crowds that have the potential to incite violence.
It is better not to respond to an aggravating question or accusation, than to give a response that would spark violence. Choose life over death, success over failure, hope over despair, friendship over hatred and strength over weakness. Doing those
things do not make you less of a man. In fact, the one who demonstrates the ability to walk away, keep quiet, or speak a word of love, is the one who is strong.
Let us learn from the past. There is no victory in killing and spending time in prison. Let us turn away from a life of Crime today!
As men, we need to pray more, find a quiet place, take time to allow the Word of God to minister to our minds. Ephesians Chapter 4, Verses 2 reminds us to
“Be completely humble and gentle: be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
There are many noises from various directions and lots of negatives circulating on social media and on radio. Let us begin to celebrate the positives. Avoid negative, loud and abrasive company. Speak love and hope to your friends and together, let us build Grenada!
As a member of Cabinet, I can say that we are doing all in our power to develop and execute proper plans towards an all-inclusive, prosperous future, where everyone can play his or her part.
Brothers and Sisters, the Government of Grenada, through the Ministry of Social and Community Development, Housing and Gender Affairs offers counselling for victims and their families, and for persons affected in one way or the other by violence. The Ministry also has a Probation Unit which works directly with juveniles and their families. If anyone requires assistance from the Ministry, you can call 4402269. You can also call Legal Aid and Counselling Clinic on 440-3788/3789 or the Special Victims Units on 440- 4739.
Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Martin Luther King Jr.
May the Lord Bless and Keep everyone you.
GIS
Our current situation within society saddens me I will always say “you can’t fix a broken glass but you could’ve prevent the glass from falling”. As a teenager myself with a burning desire and purpose to change and impact lives, I must say that I’ll blame the men/successful men within our society who can be of great influence and empowerment to our youths but sadly it’s all about the money everyone make there money and shut up when in fact they can be 100% more active and influential within society that’s all our society needs more positive influence by our successful and masculine men because our men/masculinity is the foundation of a well flourishing positively impacted society. However we live in a society where everyone still depends on our government to build and empower communities.
Couldn’t agree more with you and Sand. Yet, instead of a plan to address all those things and more, he’s talking about the Bible and Ephesians etc. A real plan is needed and it can start with more programmes for at risk youth, more community based trained counsellors, programmes to reduce alcohol, and so on.
To be violent is a personal choice. Blaming the economy, social injustice and discrimination is an excuse. I grew up poor. My father worked 3 jobs to support his family. We had government help for food and necessities. We did NOT see violence in our home. Why? Because our parents, specifically my father showed love and kindness to all. His wise words… “Never raise your or a fist.” Truer words…
Yes. Agreed. All these inadequacies are coming to a boil. My prediction: crime, domestic violence and deaths from suicide will continue to go up.
Extremely iniquitous wages are one thing. Unbridled capitalism – which consists of exploitative profit-gorging business and the insatiable demand for everything ( the “I want and must have it”) syndrome will destroy us. And Grenada is not going to be “exempted” from this trend.
You know how long I never hear a Grenadian talk so much sense! The government needs to address the severe income inequality between the capitalist class and the working class. At this moment the majority of the youth population is hopeless, as long as poverty exists crime and violence will exist.
Let’s talk about and address the route cause.
There is too much social injustice in Grenada.
Let’s talk about the deprivation and discriminatory pressure people must leave in Grenada.
Let’s about the meager wages..Let’s about the serious lack of economic activities.
When can man goes out to work anf take care of his family without depending on political handouts.
Let’s talk about creating good paying jobs.