Photo | The Tribune

ALICIA WALLACE: When we clearly see the issues and block out the bullying voices then things really can change

Monday marked five years since the 2016 referendum on citizenship rights and sex-based discrimination.

‘Educate to eradicate domestic violence’

LOCAL activists are again calling on the government to implement the necessary tools to effectively address the needs of domestic violence victims.

ALICIA WALLACE: A mother and daughter die but are we really shocked in a society complicit in violence against women?

FOLLOWING the murder of a 30-year-old mother and her eight-year-old daughter on Monday morning, the conversation about domestic violence has started again. There is shock, sadness and frustration. We have questions that have been asked before and never seem to get answers. How are guns getting into the country? Why do so many disagreements end in violent death? Who could kill a child? Then there is the question far too many people ask: Well, what did she do for him to kill her?

ALICA WALLACE: If only we could learn practise the old maxim - it’s good to talk

Over the past few weeks, I have had speaking roles at numerous youth conferences, workshops and specialised sessions. There have been a few recurring themes but the one that stood out is teen relationships. During the question and answer periods and later on email or social media, participants having been asking a range of questions on topics including sex, violence and red flags.

ALICIA WALLACE: It’s been six months - by now we should know what we’re doing

We are six months in and the government still has not figured out how to respond to the COVID-19. From public health management to addressing economic concerns, there are far too many gaps. The main issue continues to be failure to consult. What does the government have against engaging experts, practitioners and affected people?

ALICIA WALLACE: No more ‘Papi’ stories please PM - just a clear message and a sign you understand

During the FNM convention ahead of the 2017 general election season, there was major concern about the leadership.

ALICIA WALLACE: Dorian must be more than a memory - rather a call to action

It has been one year since Hurricane Dorian devastated Grand Bahama and Abaco.

ALICIA WALLACE: Scratching your head trying to work out what really changed in seven days? Me too

Last week, the Prime Minister announced a seven-day lockdown to start immediately due to the rise in COVID-19 cases. The next day, he reversed the decision because, as should have been obvious, people were not prepared for it. He said various business could operate “until further notice”, but never gave any indication of plans to announce another lockdown.

ALICIA WALLACE: One man cannot deal with this crisis on his own. Minute-by-minute decisions are not going to get us through this

Some of us do not seem to matter. There is little consideration to people living with illnesses and in need of medication, people experiencing poverty, elderly people, unhoused people, women, or children.

ALICIA WALLACE: There are too many unanswered questions and a lack of respect

We are now in our second week of lockdown and received a national address from the Prime Minister on Sunday evening which gave very little information.

ALICIA WALLACE: We need to take account of all COVID’s symptoms - mental, financial and social

We’ve spent another holiday weekend on lockdown followed by one day to prepare for a two-week nationwide lockdown.

ALICIA WALLACE: Can we have some clarity please AFTER the press conference headlines

On Monday, 40 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed, most of them in Grand Bahama and New Providence. The were 16 new cases on Sunday and 10 on Saturday. The return of weekend lockdowns and the 7pm curfew were not welcomed. Everyone knew there would be an announcement last Friday, but most expected a full lockdown.

ALICIA WALLACE: Playing the blame game when everyone knew what was likely to happen

The number of reported COVID-19 cases has been going up since the borders opened on July 1, so it is not a surprise that new restrictions were announced by the Prime Minister in the national address on Sunday. Everyone braced themselves for the worst. Some expected a full lockdown while others thought the borders would completely close without notice.

ALICIA WALLACE: Will we ever learn to tolerate and celebrate every person no matter what their gender?

Bahamian drag performer Anastarzia “Starzy” Anaquway is on the popular television show Canada’s Drag Race. Starzy, who is 37 and now living in East York, Ontario, has won more than 15 pageants in 17 years of competition.

ALICIA WALLACE: When we are having a difficult conversation - are we really listening?

Over the past few months, I have been facilitator and participant in scores of conversations. In most cases, they were informal, but generative.

ALICIA WALLACE: We know opening the borders just doesn’t add up: we’re chasing the dollars and it’s a big risk

Is this freedom? Beaches and parks, gyms and spas, places of worship, and businesses are now open. The requirements are different from what we expected.

ALICIA WALLACE: Is the curfew still in place because we know the more desperate people become, crime will rise?

The rules keep changing. We are getting some of what we asked for, but not all of it makes sense. It does not seem as though the decisions will be explained without a considerable amount of pressure. We are one week away from the opening of the borders to commercial flights yet the curfew remains in place, albeit it starts an hour later.

ALICIA WALLACE: There’s more to do than move a statue of Columbus

Every now and then, the conversation about the statue of Christopher Columbus starts again. It generally does not last for a long time, but people weigh in and we end up with the same sets of opinions. Some people think it should be removed from Government House while others think it should stay.

ALICIA WALLACE: We won’t go away and the questions won’t stop just because you treat us with contempt

The resignation of Dr. Duane Sands as Minister of Health has come up again. We all still had questions about what happened to lead to that action. We heard there was a breach of protocol, but never a description of the breach. How did Sands overstep and who else was responsible for what took place?

ALICIA WALLACE: There is reason to be enraged, to protest, not to remain silent

Restricted to our homes and already exhausted by the effects of COVID-19 on our lives, many of us watched as Black Americans demanded recognition of their humanity and justice for the lives that have been stolen by law enforcement. It raised questions about race and racism in The Bahamas — a topic we do not often discuss and people try to quickly shut down.

ALICIA WALLACE: Why did this shameful ceremony happen, robbing the dead of their dignity and the bereaved a proper moment to grieve?

When my grandfather died I was out of the country for study. I had planned to return three weeks later, but got the support of my parents and the university to make the necessary arrangements to change the date. It was a difficult time of year because final exams were set to begin in a matter of days. Some people suggested I stay, but others, including my parents, told me to come home if that is what I needed to do.

ALICIA WALLACE: Nothing personal, but sitting in the assembly is not the way to get the job done

It is not unusual to be asked whether or not I have political aspirations or, more directly, told that I need to run in the next general election. This is sometimes an unfriendly challenge.

ALICIA WALLACE: We knew what we were getting but things really do now need to change

We have known for some time that we have a leadership problem. We have a political landscape problem. We have an electoral process problem. We have a system that does not work for us and has led to results, election after election, that have been subpar at best.

ALICIA WALLACE: More questions than answers which Sands’ resignation does not make go away

No one was pleased when news broke that two permanent residents were allowed to enter Nassau early last week while the borders were closed. It was said these people brought 2500 COVID-19 testing swabs – not testing kits – which were donations.

ALICIA WALLACE: Towards a new horizon? Not with the same old names writing the script

The optimistic among us believe we may be moving toward more participatory governance. It is possible there will be more opportunities for citizens to more directly engage in decision-making processes.

ALICIA WALLACE: When it’s all over, let’s make sure we do things better

Over the past few days I have been having conversations with people about the COVID crisis, the responses of different governments and the reactions of the public. I have been interested in the thoughts of artists, activists, educators, students and members of the press. There is one question I keep asking – what is your hope for when things change? Some answers are personal and some are broader and more inclusive.

ALICIA WALLACE: Why we need a proper plan, not just reactions

Last week I saw a Facebook post that stated the government plan to deal with the COVID-19 crisis is a good one, but the people lack discipline. I stopped and re-read it several times, wondering whether or not it was sarcasm. I waited for people to comment, interested in the conversation it would spark. People seemed to, for the most part, agree with the statement.

ALICIA WALLACE: We won’t get everything right and the shopping strategy has sparked the panic it’s meant to avoid

Following the weekend lockdown on short notice, introduction of a grocery shopping schedule and the announcement of a complete shutdown from Wednesday night to Tuesday morning was no great surprise.

ALICIA WALLACE: Choose life for ourselves and each other by playing by the rules

We are almost two weeks into our new and temporary way of living. It has been extended, as many of us expected, and it is in our best interest to follow the guidelines provided.

ALICIA WALLACE: Closing schools was easy but where was the planning for what families did next?

COVID-19 is forcing us to change the way we live. It demands that we change our behaviour in order to stop the spread of the virus. We are not yet taking it as seriously as we should. We should not have waited for a confirmed case before taking action, especially when we have thousands of people moving in and out of the country, directly engaging with a large proportion of our population through the tourism industry.

ALICIA WALLACE: A little disappointment shouldn’t kill the dream

Last week was quite busy as I worked with the all-volunteer team of Equality Bahamas to plan and execute our annual International Women’s Day events.

ALICIA WALLACE: We need to wake up and put ourselves first

We all want the best for ourselves. We want to make enough – or more than enough – money. We want good health. Mobile devices, internet and food delivery are more common than they have been in past years. As time goes on, our “bare minimum” list gets longer. We are quite certain that we deserve it. There are times, however, when it seems we do not believe we deserve the best, but other people do. However unintentionally, we frequently elevate the opinions and comfort of others above our own.

ALICIA WALLACE: It’s only $100 but its significance means so much

The recent kerfuffle about $100 is almost laughable.

ALICIA WALLACE: Whispered secrets which tell a much deeper story

Everyone is talking now, just as they were before, but with voices that are a little louder. It almost seems as though there is less fear. Memories are being jogged as stories are spilling and judgments are being made. People are finally saying, in spaces where more people can hear them, that they knew at least a part of what was allegedly happening behind the walls at Peter Nygard’s Lyford Cay home.

ALICIA WALLACE: Going through the motions is the easy option - but not the right one

This past weekend, my father celebrated his birthday and we marked the occasion by attending his church. I realised, not for the first time, that it was quite easy to go through the motions of sitting and standing, responding when prompted and follow the entire service without aid. Years of weekly attendance with my great-grandmother ensured that, not only was the mass cemented into my memory, but several versions of it.

ALICIA WALLACE: Forget the game - there’s so much to talk about in that half-time show

Super Bowl LIV has come and gone, the Kansas Chiefs celebrating their win over the San Francisco 49ers. Conversation continues about the televised event with focus on at least four areas – the US president’s tweet placing the team in the state of Kansas when it is actually in Missouri, boring commercials, Jay Z and Beyonce sitting during the national anthem - and the half-time show. As always, people have a lot to say about the latter. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez, Latina performers known for both singing and dancing, shared a stage for the first time.

ALICIA WALLACE: Stir the pot - it might just produce the change you need

Whether at work, school, or other institutions, we all have to, at some point and with some regularity, attend meetings. Assemblies, check-ins, updates, services, training and conferences all bring us to a space with other people with connections to the institution or topic at hand.

ALICIA WALLACE: Back in the heartbeat of Junkanoo I missed so much

It is not a holiday season without Junkanoo. To miss the Valley, Roots, One Family and Saxons on Bay Street is to be asleep for the entire season.

ALICIA WALLACE: Honestly, it’s no sin choosing to live alone

There is, quite possibly, nothing more blissful than living alone. Everything is where you left it, you have the quiet time you need when you get in from a long day, the bed is all yours, and no one is making your bills even higher.

ALICIA WALLACE: Human rights are not something to fight for, they are something we already have - even Haitians

We are all born free and equal. We are all entitled to human rights. We all have the right to life, freedom and safety. Gender, race, nationality, class and education level are non-factors. We do not have to earn human rights. There are inherently ours.

ALICIA WALLACE: Don’t blame us, Mr Johnson

It is, unfortunately, not unusual for Members of Parliament and Cabinet Ministers to insult the Bahamian people, especially in their bids to excuse their own actions.

ALICIA WALLACE: When women at risk become even more vulnerable

Monday marked the beginning of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence and was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. We all know the numbers. One in three women experiences violence in her lifetime. Though they may not have shared their stories with us, we all know people who have been affected by gender-based violence, having experienced it themselves or witnessed it.

ALICIA WALLACE: Finding time to look back, see what worked and plan ahead

As the end of the calendar year approaches, it is important to take time for self-reflection and self-assessment, especially for those who use the Gregorian calendar for setting goals and try to commit to new year’s resolutions.

ALICIA WALLACE: Working with strangers on a group project (and no internet) - what could go wrong?

Group work is one of the most dreaded parts of high school and university for anyone who cares about earning good grades and fair share of input. I remember complaining about group work and how it would affect my grades, emphasizing my preference for being solely responsible for my academic outcomes.

ALICIA WALLACE: Warped opinions driven by a flawed system that sets people apart

What is the value of a human life? How do we decide who deserves what? This is often a part of national conversations, though not explicitly stated.

ALICIA WALLACE: Minimum wage doesn’t cut it - we have to get real

There are a number of life skills we either learn on our own, usually through trial and error, or suffer continuously for not having learned. They are not taught in school, though they should be, and our parents fail to impart certain kinds of knowledge because they do not have it, do not know how to share it, or it has not occurred to them that certain skills are critical and need to be taught.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Here we go again - the church seeking to control how we think

It was recently confirmed that Pride celebrations will be held in The Bahamas in October 2020. It is no surprise this announcement was closely followed by homophobic rhetoric, proclamations that The Bahamas is a Christian nation and that we should remain focused on hurricane relief and nothing else.

ALICIA WALLACE: Where does loyalty lie - with the party or the voters?

With Member of Parliament for Centreville Reece Chipman’s departure from the Free National Movement, there is been quite a bit of talk about loyalty.

ALICIA WALLACE: Are we really getting the next steps right?

Mandatory evacuation, on the surface, seems like a good idea. It is for everyone’s safety, right? We want to ensure the government can legislate for our safety particularly when we expect disaster will strike. We need to know people in the most vulnerable areas not only have somewhere else to go, but are compelled to go.

ALICIA WALLACE: Child refugees struggle to get back to school

WE are consumed by our private lives. In many ways, we see our lives and experiences as synonymous with the Bahamian experience or the human experience.

ALICIA WALLACE: A time to work together

HURRICANE relief work continues with donations coming in, needs changing, and systems being imagined, debated and, in fewer cases, created.

ALICIA WALLACE: It’s time to help, not to fight

THE past two weeks have gone by quickly, but the beginning of relief efforts feels like it is in the distant past.

ALICIA WALLACE: Together in grief, kindness and hope we will come through

Grief is a beast like no other. It is unpredictable, unwieldy and unwanted. We often do not know how to deal with it, whether it is our own or someone else’s.

ALICIA WALLACE: Black and white lives - the conversation is long overdue

Race is a difficult subject to broach in almost any space or circumstance, and particularly challenging when participants are in denial about the ways it impacts our lives.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: A friend’s family opened my eyes to a different way to educate children

This week, I am catching up with a friend who lives in New York. She has two children - 13 and ten - who attend the Waldorf school where she works as a teacher.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Let us know when the lights are going off and at least we can plan around it

Bahamas Power and Light held a press conference on Sunday, and while many of us tuned in, none of us have better information that we had before.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: We all need a plan for a time we can’t avoid

We are ageing, living longer and it is does not seem like we realise it.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Poverty isn’t a choice, for many it’s their battle throughout life

Money is a complicated topic of discussion. It is, in many ways, taboo to talk about money in real terms. We can comfortably talk about high prices, sales and taxation, but it is more difficult to discuss, in concrete terms, salaries, expenses and what we can and cannot afford.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Why now there is simply no excuse

How often do you think about the power you have? As a parent, employer, or citizen, you have a certain amount of power that people who are not in the same position do not.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: A whole new world and we don’t look anywhere near ready

The commitment has been made to ban single-use plastic in The Bahamas by next year. There have been a few mentions in the media since 2018, but I have not seen much happening to prepare the public for the changes to come.

ALICIA WALLACE: None of us is safe from a stray bullet, vulnerable amid illusions of safety

Following the shooting of 15 people at a party in Montel Heights where the intended target ran into the crowd, the Commissioner of Police said: “I feel safe and I think you feel safe.” This is a puzzling statement, particularly given the incident being discussed.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Can someone turn the lights on in BPL’s thinking?

We know it happens and with greater frequency during the summer months, but we are frustrated by the disruption and inconvenience of electricity outages.

ALICIA WALLACE: When things don’t add up we need to change them

MICAL MP Miriam Emmanuel has been the talk of the town since her inability to read a seven-figure number in Parliament last week.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Imagine, keeping calm behind a bus until it’s ready to move off

I know very few people in Nassau who do not hate driving. I know some who plan their days around peak traffic times, some who get someone else to drive, some who play a particular genre of music to keep themselves calm and some who complain about it every single time they have to do it.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: They’re only children - look after them well

There is reluctance to recognise children as whole people with a range of emotions they have to learn to recognise and handle and their own likes and dislikes in addition to the need for guidance, education and discipline.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Don’t be blind to the power these men hold

Last week, on the heels of Bishop Simeon Hall’s call for the church to take a strong position against sexual violence and his distinction between rape and sex, the president of the Bahamas Christian Council contradicted it with reckless remarks meant to turn people against Carnival.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Welcome words but we need action too

Bishop Simeon Hall recently called on the church to take a stance against sexual violence, specifically including acts within families and marriage. He made a distinction between the desire for sex and the attempt to gain power which leads to sexual violence. Hall also correctly made the connection between the dehumanisation of women and failure to see us as valuable people, noting society must value women in order for sexual violence rates to go down.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: When opportunity knocks make sure you’re ready to act

Opportunities are everywhere. We tell each other to go out and seize them all the time, but many of them already have names and addresses.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: We don’t have to make everything a competition

Disasters intrigue us. We are interested in how the fire started, who was targetted and why it took so long for help to come. Some become amateur detectives, trying to find motive. Some are self-appointed jury members and judges, deciding who did what and what they deserve as punishment. Not much time passes between freak accidents and terrorist attacks, especially when we have international news at our fingertips. There is always something to theorise, obsess, pray and argue over.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: What’s in the message is most important thing

I remember being told, over and over again: “It’s not what you say. It’s how you say it.” Hearing it now brings back memories of being told my delivery was more important than the message. Though I have learned the importance of considering the audience, I still rail against tone policing and the dismissiveness that meets nonconventional delivery that defies neocolonial norms.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Schools have to get in the fight to protect our students

Fights happen in schools all the time. I went to a high school known for its Christian mandate and inflexibility.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Ask people what they need then maybe we’ll have the right answers

The Economic Empowerment Zone programme launched in the Over-the-Hill community seems to be going nowhere fast with only 17 applications for concessions. It is perplexing that this was presented as a poverty alleviation initiative given its emphasis on businesses rather than households, individuals and vulnerable communities.

THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: It’s shoddy, unacceptable and time we demanded better

The current administration has not been popular - and that may be an understatement.

CULTURE CLASH: They can’t get by without a bit of help from friends

Last week Friday was International Women’s Day, and several events were held in Nassau and other cities all over the world. It was interesting to see what agencies, organisations and individuals did in their acknowledgement of the internationally recognised day.

CULTURE CLASH: Why is it an assaulted child’s mother must share the blame for her ordeal?

International Women’s Day is on Friday, and this year’s theme is Balance for Better. The theme is broad enough to capture any number of issues, from equality in the workplace to legal reform.

CULTURE CLASH: Let’s prepare for 2020 - stand up and be counted

Our system of governance and political party structures and systems need work.

CULTURE CLASH: Learning from the lessons of our Commonwealth partners

Dozens of Commonwealth government leaders and advisers are attending the Equality and Justice Forum in Cape Town, South Africa hosted by the Equality & Justice Alliance (EJA) this week.

CULTURE CLASH: We need to do more than pay lip service and get real on human rights

We have never talked much about human rights. When the topic comes up, it is often in reference to the right to life and liberty.

CULTURE CLASH: Remember – We came from the same place, were deposited on different pieces of rock, enslaved and forced into new ways of seeing, believing and being

People leave their homes for many reasons. Some leave to further their education, to find work, or to gain experience through training programmes and internships.

CULTURE CLASH: Jobs, yes, but so much more needs to be addressed

Jobs. That seems to be the magic word - and politicians know it. “More jobs” is the promise of all promises and we hear it often, especially during election season and when the electorate is dissatisfied. It was no surprise when this was a major focus of the prime minister’s national address.

CULTURE CLASH: Leave Boom Bye Bye in the past where the attitudes it champions also belong

Recent events have led to conversations about hate speech over the past few weeks.

CULTURE CLASH: Failing families - an easy scapegoat for all our problems

The “breakdown of the family” has been blamed for everything from national examination results to the murder rate. There is generally no data to support the claims when they are made, but we largely agree something is wrong with the home environment. The family is a small, foundational unit that helps to shape many other groups, so it is logical to assume it affects them, doesn’t it?

CULTURE CLASH: Why R. Kelly’s story exposes a deeper, darker truth

Surviving R. Kelly, a docu-series on the R&B singer’s alleged abuse of women, aired on Lifetime over the past two weeks and, as expected, sparked heated debate.

CULTURE CLASH: Give yourself the best chance to keep those resolutions

We’re only two days in, so of course excitement about the new year is still in the air. It still feels like we have a lot of time and can do anything.

CULTURE CLASH: How we dress isn't the problem, bullying attitudes to belittle women is

It is not uncommon to experience and hear about difficulty accessing government services.

CULTURE CLASH: ‘Sorry’ still seems the hardest word

How many times do you apologise in week? For stepping on someone’s foot, bumping into someone, hurting someone’s feelings, or failing to follow through on a commitment, we often have to say we are sorry. Apologies do not immediately repair damage, but they are not just words.

CULTURE CLASH: What we saw in 2016 is what we have now

We are plagued by the desire for a hero. When anything goes wrong, we look for someone to save the day.

CULTURE CLASH: March, yes – but that can only be a first step

Protests are always political. They do not have to be partisan, but most of them end up being aligned with a political party, if only by perception.

CULTURE CLASH: It’s better for everyone when we’re not afraid to talk

Most of us have to work. We do not have to like it, but we do have to show up and perform tasks as assigned by whoever calls the shots. We labour in exchange for compensation which includes a salary or wages. While this is the only form of compensation some of us receive, others have health insurance, pension plans, gas allowances and discounts.

CULTURE CLASH: If the system is wrong then we need to change it

We have a systems problem. Systems are not just machines or procedures for high-level tasks, but include the timing of traffic lights, the passport renewal application process and the dissemination of information.

CULTURE CLASH: Thank God for those unafraid to say ‘no’

The Arawaks were a peace-loving people, they say. Our history books place the Arawaks in direct opposition to Caribs who, we were taught, were violent. Some books even say they were cannibals.

ALICIA WALLACE: Everyone has their say - then the back-pedalling begins

The Government of The Bahamas faced review by the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Committee during the 71st session at the United Nations in Geneva. The review followed the submission of the State’s report on progress made since the last submission, tabling of shadow reports by three non-governmental organizations (NGOs) — one of which is publicly available — and oral statements and a private meeting with NGOs.

ALICIA WALLACE: Under the microscope - how will we do?

The Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), commonly known as women’s bill of rights, was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979.

ALICIA WALLACE: And still we dream – of a proper bus system

Safe, reliable public transportation is not often a national discussion. We do, however, talk about it among ourselves, especially if we depend on it to any degree. Those who use public transportation regularly are both well aware of the challenges of the system (if we can call it a system) and skilled in making it work anyway.

ALICIA WALLACE: Time for a different tune than our brand of one-note tourism

We watched another one bite the dust on Monday, over and over again. It instantly became a where-were-you-when moment. The videos and pictures seem endless and I imagine people return to them to experience the thrill, again, of what was once Crystal Palace crumbling before their eyes. It is not often we see demolitions in The Bahamas, so this was quite the spectacle. As the dust settles, many people are sharing memories of Crystal Palace, from teenage sleepovers to working night shifts. The demolition, as some have said, was the end of an era.

ALICIA WALLACE: Living in the minefield of how women are expected to behave

After being found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault of Andrea Constand, Bill Cosby was sentenced to three to ten years yesterday. Prosecutors and defence attorneys agreed to merge the three counts to one sentence. Cosby’s attorney had asked for house arrest given his age and legal blindness.

FACE TO FACE: Green shoots of political reform - but will they be allowed to grow?

Political and electoral reform has been a hot topic for years. It is one of the few things we all agree is needed in The Bahamas. Here I am referring to changes to the system of governance, elections and representation at the government level as well as within political parties.

ALICIA WALLACE: Why should Serena be held to a higher standard?

When I became aware of Venus and Serena Williams, my interest in tennis increased exponentially. Andre Agassi and Stefi Graf were fine to watch, but it was exciting to see, not only girls, but black girls on the courts. They played tennis and they did it well.

ALICIA WALLACE: The ‘now’ generation? More like later, if ever

Home ownership is not easy. It is no walk in the park to look for, purchase, build, or maintain a house. Anyone who has gone through the process, or even attempted it, knows this and has anecdotes to share. There is nothing simple about it.

ALICIA WALLACE: What must a woman do to convince people of her worth?

The BPL debacle has been interesting to watch. Every day, another layer is peeled back, exposing not only what has transpired behind the scenes, but the motivations of individuals.

ALICIA WALLACE: Service second to none? More like second rate

We all need service and we want it to be fast and inexpensive. Some of us want it to be friendly too and responsive to our every need. For any given service in The Bahamas - and in Nassau in particular - we would be fortunate to get two out of four.

ALICIA WALLACE: Time after time all Grand Bahama has received is neglect

Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed on Monday the government intends to buy the Grand Lucayan hotel properties — Memories, Breaker’s Cay, and Lighthouse Pointe — which closed for repairs following Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. Close to 1,000 people lost their jobs and Lighthouse Pointe was the only property to reopen, now employing approximately 320 people. The decision to purchase, of course, has drawn mixed reviews from the Bahamian people. The announcement comes at an odd time, following the 60 percent increase in Value Added Tax and the $90,000 cut in school uniform assistance.

ALICIA WALLACE: We should applaud our judges for defending everyone’s rights

Following the holiday weekend the country is abuzz with news of the injunction granted by Supreme Court Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson. The injunction pauses utility disconnections and evictions by the government until there is a judicial review of the government’s plan to bulldoze shanty towns.

ALICIA WALLACE: So what really does frighten us about immigration?

Immigration is a tough topic.

ALICIA WALLACE: Super Value made a mistake but they can still put it right

Last week, Super Value president Rupert Roberts said the company will no longer provide enhanced maternity costs. The company practices a form of self-insurance, setting money aside to cover medical costs rather than engaging an insurance company which could cost more money. It has decided to discontinue maternity payments it makes which are on top of the statutory requirement in order to have more money available for catastrophic illness and life-saving treatment.

ALICIA WALLACE: Facing up to the fact that time catches up with us all

We spend a fair amount of time in preparation. We set goals, plan our futures and work toward becoming the versions of ourselves we imagine.

ALICIA WALLACE: What are the real reasons behind the Minnis shuffle?

NO matter how low we set our expectations, there seems to be surprise, embarrassment, and frustration at every turn. There has not been much to celebrate in recent weeks, the increase in Value Added Tax bringing a muddy tinge to our reality. It puts

ALICIA WALLACE: How you can prepare for the arrival of VAT

VALUE Added Tax will be increased to twelve percent in a matter of days, and many of us are still trying to figure out how to make it work. Adjustments have to be made, some on a daily basis, but this does not mean we have to be uncomfortable. It mea

ALICIA WALLACE: The lessons we can learn from the Budget

THE world of partisan politics is never dull. The Budget Communication certainly makes for a lively few weeks, full of debate, pontification, and a range of emotions. It is probably the time we are most attentive to the government and political manoe

ALICIA WALLACE: Facing up to mental health challenges

I KNOW people with mental health challenges, some of whom are getting professional help and others who cannot afford it, do not want anyone else to know what they are going through, or do not think it would help. I have received phone calls and in-pe

ALICIA WALLACE: Why VAT rise hits hardest for the people who can least afford it

Bahamians tuned in to the Budget Communication in Parliament last Wednesday with great interest. After laying out a number of supposed benefits to the Bahamian people, Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest showed the price tag. The FNM administration intends to increase Value Added Tax (VAT) by 60 percent, taking it up from 7.5 percent to 12 percent on July 1. It expects this tax hike to increase revenue by $400m in the next fiscal year.

ALICIA WALLACE: Mottley cruises to electoral wipeout

On May 24, 2018, Barbados elected its first female prime minister. Mia Amor Mottley led the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) to victory, winning over 74 percent of the votes. This election brought an end to ten years of governance by the Democratic Labour Party (DPL) led by Freundel Stuart since 2010. The BLP won all 30 seats in the House of Assembly—a first in the country’s history. Political parties in The Bahamas should look at the BLP’s campaign and collateral as there is a great deal that can be learned and practiced.

CULTURE CLASH: We need to take time for ourselves

We are supposed to be strong; there for everyone at any time.

FACE TO FACE: Women without apology, without inhibition - the whole world should celebrate her

We are not short on opinions about Bahamas Carnival. From the announcement four years ago, it was a point of division. Between the Junkanoo vs Carnival debate and the desperate appeals from the church, the event has always been controversial and polarising.

CULTURE CLASH: Don’t be blind to Cosby - the criminal

Most of us know Bill Cosby as Heathcliff Huxtable. He is a doctor married to lawyer Clair Huxtable and father of five children. He is a funny, playful character with endearing eccentricity. Everyone loves Cliff, and wishes he could be their father. The Cosby family was aspirational, and The Cosby Show gave us somewhere to be when our own lives, homes and families did not quite manage to bring us joy.

CULTURE CLASH: Corruption is not just in high office, it’s all around us

At the G20-OECD conference, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Yury Fedotov said: “Corruption is a global threat. It is a serious roadblock to economic development. Corruption aggravates inequity and injustice and undermines stability, especially in the world’s most vulnerable regions.”

CULTURE CLASH: We play follow the leader and God forbid anyone who doesn’t play by the rules

When we talk about leadership, we usually point to government as an example. The Prime Minister is seen as the ultimate leader. There is no one with more control. No one with greater power. No one with more responsibility. No one in a more important position. No one more unquestionable or beyond reproach. No one more silencing, domineering or undoubtedly correct. The prime minister is synonymous with leadership.

FACE TO FACE: Let’s agree - we need to disagree better

Physical violence is an undeniable issue in The Bahamas.

CULTURE CLASH: What really lies underneath this dress code for schools

What are you concerned about today? What is at the top of your list of qualms, battles to fight and issues to raise? It is always interesting to see what demands attention, riles us up and pushes us to take action. For so long we have been taking what has been dished out, finding ways to work around disadvantageous systems, and complaining in small circles.

CULTURE CLASH: Missed the bus but not a day of joy and wonder

Transforming Spaces — an annual art bus tour in Nassau, Bahamas — was last weekend, and I took too long to purchase a ticket. It sold out quickly and so I was left to either sulk, or make my own way from gallery to gallery to see the work of Bahamian artists.

CULTURE CLASH: In The Bahamas, marriage does not seem to be a good idea for women

It is rare for a news item to bring concerned pause. Our positions are usually clear; we care or we don’t care, and then we choose a side.

CULTURE CLASH: Ask yourself - what are the women in your life really worth?

Tomorrow is International Women’s Day and this year’s theme is Press for Progress. The annual year-long campaign inspires people all over the world to consider the issues women face year-round, think about solutions and bring people together to take action for change.

CULTURE CLASH: Justice for all - it takes work

Social justice is, at the moment, an imagined future where wealth and opportunities are justly distributed. It is a world free of oppression and barriers due to gender, race, class, sexuality, religion, nationality, or all other identity markers.

CULTURE CLASH: Black Lives Matter - in The Bahamas too

It’s open season, but don’t worry. They’ll only kill the people they recognise, and only if they’re afraid. The Royal Bahamas Police Force is on a mission and no one cares to intervene.

CULTURE CLASH: Sexual violence - there is no grey area

I’ve seen and heard about people lamenting the ongoing discussion about women’s human rights specific to our bodies.

CULTURE CLASH: We don’t always have to be afraid

The US has been a major influence on The Bahamas for a long time. Proximity and tourism are not the only reasons.

CULTURE CLASH: When leaders fail to lead

We often talk about leadership. It is a hot topic on the radio, at church, within civic groups, in politics, in schools and at conferences and training sessions. Everyone has wisdom to impart on the subject. We are not likely to ever come to a consensus on whether leaders are born or made, but can all see there are skills every leader needs to have and hone.

ALICIA WALLACE: Time to take things with a pinch of salt

Coming out of a year of sitting around, watching and questioning, 2018 has to be a year of collective action.

CULTURE CLASH: Time to ask ourselves - what do we truly believe in?

At this time of year, before looking forward and making plans for a better, more productive and successful year, it is wise to review the previous 12 months.

CULTURE CLASH: Eight years on the same debate with the same answer - rape is rape

We need to talk about consent. Most of us understand it to mean permission. Parents and guardians signing forms to allow children to participate in extracurricular activities probably comes to mind. We don’t think about consent as a way of controlling and protecting our own bodies. Instead, we view the bodies of women and girls as public property.

CULTURE CLASH: Time we talked to a wider audience

As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence continues, most people working in the fields of gender and violence prevention are attending events ranging from special assemblies at high schools to conferences. At these events, we see and engage, for the most part, the same people. We sit through presentations on the same material, listen to the same comments and have the same sidebars with the people we talk to every time we meet in these spaces.

CULTURE CLASH: Violence cannot be tolerated - in whatever form it comes

Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that often goes unrecognised and unchecked. We all know it exists, but our understanding of it can be quite limited in scope and type.

CULTURE CLASH: Stifling the press won’t get the job done, Dr Minnis

We have a media and communications problem in The Bahamas. Some would have us believe this is a reflection of the competence and work ethic of journalists, avoiding their own responsibility.

CULTURE CLASH: MPs, prove your worth before even thinking about a pay rise

We, the Bahamian people, are frequent victims of the bait and switch. Parties in opposition agree with us, promise to represent our positions, then forget about us once they have consent to govern on our behalf.

CULTURE CLASH: Where next for legislation on gender equality?

Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced last week the current administration will amend legislation in order to allow Bahamian women to automatically transfer citizenship to their children at birth in the same way Bahamian men already do.

CULTURE CLASH: A twerking schoolgirl - where’s the real problem?

ONCE again a video of high school students has made its rounds on social media.

CULTURE CLASH: Time for a fair deal for the fairer sex

ACCORDING to tabloid reports, a Progressive Liberal Party stalwart councillor said at a leadership candidacy event that Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin needed to know her place was in the kitchen. Perhaps more unfortunate than the statement was the

CULTURE CLASH: Sexual harassment is an act of violence

#MeToo — a campaign started by actor Alyssa Milano encouraging women to let people know they have experienced sexual harassment or assault has populated social media with evidence of the pervasiveness of sexual violence.

CULTURE CLASH: We need leaders we can trust and who share what we want

Everyone is talking about leadership. While people battle for top positions in households, corporations, and countries we redefine and re-conceptualize leadership in response to community needs, mindset changes and shifts in power dynamics.

CULTURE CLASH: Violence breeds violence and it begins in the home

Crime is never off our minds for very long. News reports, stories from friends, social media evidence and personal experiences guarantee our awareness and vigilance.

CULTURE CLASH: The intelligence needed to care

WHAT makes you think you’re so smart? Maybe you got a few As and Bs on your national exams, maintained a decent GPA, got into your first choice university, landed a great job with a fancy title, or get a lot of likes on your lengthy Facebook posts.

CULTURE CLASH: The climate change threat we cannot afford to ignore

WHEN we talk about climate change, it is often in limited, abstract ways. Climate change is not just about the temperature, land mass, or sea levels. The effects of climate change include economic loss, changes in atmospheric concentration, and cult

CULTURE CLASH: Nationalism and collective energy

THE past week has been hectic and panic-filled as the country prepared for Hurricane Irma which we expected to impact more islands and people than it did. We rushed to stores to buy food, water, ice, plywood, and all of the other supplies demanded b

CULTURE CLASH: D-average students aren't the problem - it's us who are failing them

EVERY year around this time, the entire country is frustrated by the BJC and BGCSE results. The “national average” becomes a measure of our worth and indicator of success, both present and future. For the past decade, this “national average” based o

CULTURE CLASH: Time for the Church to act, not just preach

The Bahamas Christian Council has long been a source of frustration due to its intentional influence on congregations, lack of citizen-centred action, and the subsequent power it holds over governments (once again affirmed in the Prime Minister’s national address and the promise of Crown Land). It is a body of religious leaders representing various denominations that only seem to make an appearance when convenient for the egos of its membership. It does not have a consistent social or political presence, even as the country faces pressing issues.

Stories this photo appears in: