Dear Editor,

Jamaica has been grappling with a crime problem for many years, with high levels of violence and gun crimes plaguing our society.

As a result the Government has implemented a number of strategies to combat this issue. However, in the midst of all this it is important not to neglect the men and boys in our society as they are the ones who are most affected by crime and gun violence.

It is no secret that men are disproportionately affected by crime in Jamaica. According to the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Crime Statistics Report for January to December 2020, men accounted for 82.4 per cent of murder victims. Furthermore, young men are particularly vulnerable, with the same report indicating that 63.7 per cent of murder victims were between the ages of 15 and 34.

It is clear that something needs to be done to address this issue. However, in our efforts to combat crime we must not neglect the needs of our men as this could have serious consequences for our society.

For one thing, it can exacerbate the very problem we are trying to solve. When young men feel neglected they may be more likely to turn to gangs and other forms of criminal activity as a means of gaining power and respect. This, in turn, can lead to an increase in crime and violence.

Furthermore, neglecting men and boys can have long-term consequences as they are more likely to drop out of school and become involved in criminal activity. This can lead to a vicious cycle of poverty, crime, and violence that is difficult to break.

So what can be done to address this issue? One solution is to provide more opportunities for men and boys. This should include providing access to education and training programmes as well as job opportunities. By providing them with the skills and resources they need to succeed we can help them to avoid the pitfalls of crime and violence.

Another solution is to provide more support. This can include counselling and mentorship programmes as well as initiatives aimed at promoting positive masculinity. By providing our men and boys with positive role models and support systems we can help them to develop a sense of self-worth and belonging that will encourage them to think twice before turning to criminal activity.

It is important not to neglect our men and boys in our efforts to combat crime and gun violence. By providing more opportunities and support for them we can help them to avoid the pitfalls of criminality and contribute to a safer and more prosperous Jamaica.

It is my hope that the Government of Jamaica and the prime minister will take action to address this issue and ensure that our men and boys are not left behind.

Janiel McEwan

Youth advocate

janielmcewan17@gmail.com