Are mothers deaf, dumb and blind?
published: Monday | April 18, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THERE IS a disturbing trend developing in our little country. Statistics show that the number of cases of carnal abuse is on the increase. The older men seem to be targeting both the naive and the precocious students of our secondary and high schools. What I find most alarming is that many of these young girls do not seem to share the disgust and shame of the wider society. While the nation groans and the caregivers are tearing out their hair, the 'victims' show neither remorse nor shame. In fact, some of them are experts at keeping their tryst a secret, for then
they can be assured of the name brand jeans, pretty slippers and box food.

Another worry in this disgusting scenario is that many mothers appear to be deaf, dumb and blind. How can a woman living in a one room house have no suspicion that her man is ravaging her 13-year-old daughter on a daily basis? Doeasn't she notice smells? Doesn't she notice the ogling eyes? There must be some clue for her to notice. Or is she glad for the help? Is she afraid of the man or the scandal?

The nation's young people seem to have lost their sense of shame because many of the incidents are not brought to light. These girls are many times tight-lipped and defensive of the abuser. Although much effort has been made to educate the nation about treating with these situations, many people do not benefit from these initiatives because they only watch cable tv and hardly have time to read anything.

I am etc.,

JASMINE MATTERSON

teacherjas@yahoo.com

St. Thomas

Via Go-Jamaica