Recently, I went along with a friend to a community function in a popular inner-city community. I indeed enjoyed the spirit of the community members and the unity that existed, but while looking around something troubled me immensely. Most persons there were young people and children sporting long hair extensions, false eyelashes, skimpy outfits and involved in very crude conversation. One could hardly differentiate the adults from the children!

That says a lot about Jamaica as it relates to the development of our young minds and the progress of our nation.

Unscrupulous adults

It seemed to me that many of these present children won't ever have that opportunity as, whether by influence or force, many no longer behave as children. There is no longer that sparkle in their eyes or that glow that only young, pure, innocent children possess. In addition, many even work regular nine- to-five shifts in the streets, selling a variety of goods to assist their families, or even begging.

To make matters worse, there are those unscrupulous adults who prey on these young children, especially the young girls, seeking sexual favours and taking advantage of their economic and social positions.

This situation needs to be halted. At the end of the day it is left up to parents and caregivers to make wiser and better decisions, the Government to implement more effective policies and every well-meaning individual to take responsibility and assist in restoring the innocence and the real essence of childhood.

I am, etc.,

TAMARA MCKAYLE

tmckayle246@gmail.com

University of the West Indies,

Mona

Kingston 7.