“In my own circumstance, I face the fear everyday that of the 94 women i employ, one will be the next victim,” are the chilling words from an open letter to the Prime Minister Andrew Holness, by the Managing Director of Edgechem, Doreen Frankson, who is deeply concern about women’s security in Jamaica.
The spiraling of crime in Jamaica, in particular against women and children is a conflagration that is driving fear in the island, and people across the world are paying special attention to the heinous upheaval.
Members of the business community in Jamaica and those in the diaspora, are declaring that the government put measures in place for women’s security in more aspect of the society.
Ms. Frankson was very emotional in her letter to the prime minister, where she pointed out that it was her decision to live her life in Jamaica and contribute to national development of the nation, but the continuous act of brutality against women requires an immediate change to many archaic laws in the country. She further stated that “Law-abiding women continue to be targets for business decisions they make in the interest of their companies, or companies, with which they have been entrusted management responsibilities.”
There have been letters sent to the prime minister’s office, many of which were suggestions to tackle crime, in this particular letter, Ms Frankson made it personal as it relates to the business community, where she realizes the crime is hitting too close to home.
The managing director spoke of a particular incident that took place, in relation to the beating of a colleague by an ex-employee, who she had terminated a few days earlier. Ms. Frankson is now of the belief that the government has absolutely no crime plan for women’s security, especially law abiding business women.
Her letter was face with much dislike, as persons questioned Ms. Frankson sincerity in wanting measures in place for women’s security. It is being argued that her message was bias, even though it spoke of women and children, persons believed it came with prejudice for special treatment be given to uptown rich women, and not women and children in general in Jamaica.
It was Ms. Frankson place on the government putting measures in place, to protect “productive women” in the country that didn’t settle well with the public who read the letter in its entirety.
Many made reference to Dr. Glenda Simms article on Deputy Commissioner Novelette Grant, not being selected for the Commissioner of Police rank, where they believe Dr.Simms only speaks on the protection of professional and rich women, who she believes aren’t treated fairly, but usually silent when crime, sexism and prejudice are against the average women.
One person’s comment asked “is it only productive and professional women who needs to be protected or is it all women and children.”
Our newsroom understands the crime monster that is making wave in every corner of the country, in places that were once quiet and peaceful community but are now daily headline for crime, needs to be addressed as women and children seem to be the main target for criminals personal interests.