The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

In the wake of an unsettling surge in violence within the first week of the new year, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter, Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter and Tau Nu Chapter (the Bahamas Chapters) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. express profound concern and an unwavering commitment to address acts of violence displayed in our community. Our hearts are heavy as we confront the reality that recently eight lives have been tragically lost, leaving communities reeling and families shattered.

The escalation of murder, amongst other forms of crime (which is on the decline), especially its devastating toll on women and children, demands immediate and decisive action. Women, the pillars of our communities, face an insidious burden, bearing witness to the disintegration of safety and security in their daily lives. The trauma inflicted is not just a fleeting moment of fear but a lasting scar on the psyche of our society.

In response to this crisis, The Bahamas Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. stand united, calling upon every sector of our community to join forces in a powerful coalition against violence. Our plea extends beyond mere words and is a call for tangible, actionable steps towards dismantling the cycles of crime that plague our nation.

We urgently advocate for robust, community-centred strategies to combat this scourge. This includes enhanced crime prevention initiatives, more effective community policing, and comprehensive support systems for victims. It is critical that local authorities amplify their efforts, but equally vital is the role of every citizen, and all civic organizations, in fostering a culture of vigilance and mutual support.

At the heart of our mission, the Advocate for Social Justice Committee, has a deep-seated resolve to empower those most affected by these troubling times. Through our transformative programming initiatives, we will continue to equip our communities with the tools, knowledge, and support to activate their voices and mobilize self-help to empower communities to help themselves. We pledge to continue to focus on the integration of employment, education, social services and public health services into efforts to reduce crime and ease the burden on law enforcement and correctional services. We acknowledge that the causes of violent crime are multifaceted, intertwined and chronic and the solutions must be multisectional, interwoven and sustained.

The Bahamas Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. remain steadfast in our dedication to service, scholarship, and sisterhood, with a focused commitment to uplifting women and children in these trying times. Together, we continue to stand in solidarity with Bahamians, unwavering in our pursuit of a safer, more peaceful future for all.

ETA PSI OMEGA CHAPTER

PI UPSILON OMEGA CHAPTER

TAU NU CHAPTER

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY

January 10, 2024