Gender-Based Violence Still a Cause For Concern

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Two Bahamian women share their harrowing stories of surviving domestic violence in the first episode of “The Rewind”, an Our News Digital podcast.

The survivors speak up in the hope of helping others and fostering change in the community.

Hosts Jasmine Lundy and Jhanae Winter dissect and analyze their stories with Megan Johnson, Assistant Clinical Coordinator at The Bahamas Psychological Association , and Tai Pinder-Mackey, a criminal attorney of Pinder Reckley & Co.

What effect do you think gender-based violence has had on the country?

If you haven’t seen the first episode of “The Rewind” yet, what are you waiting for?

Cases Are Climbing

The number of reported gender-based violence cases has caused waves of outcry throughout The Bahamas. The pandemic has shed more light on the sometimes silent struggle and stories of survival surrounding victims of alleged domestic abuse, rape, and homicide.

According to a report by The Tribune, as of August 2022, six domestic violence murder cases were recorded.

Sixty-nine cases of indecent assault were reported to the police, and 10 reported incidents of incest were documented between January 1 and August 23.

Additionally, there was one reported case of sexual violence with a mentally ill person and seven reported incidents involving dependents.

Assistant Commissioner of  Police and head of the RBPF’s Domestic Violence Unit Dellareece Ferguson described those figures as “startling”.

These figures only represent reported cases; police acknowledge that some cases go unreported.

The Justice System at Work

The justice system is at work, with arrests being made and suspects being placed before the courts.

In August 2022, a 65-year-old man was charged with sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl.

Acts of gender-based violence do not only affect women and girls – men and boys can also be the victims of GBV.

In November 2022, a 37-year-old man faced charges after being accused of having unlawful sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old boy.

These crimes shine a light on the dark truth behind GBV. It can happen to anyone, at any age.

The Cases That Shook The Nation

Some gender-based violence cases that received national attention are the stories of four-year-old  D’Onya Bella Walker who was murdered, 21-year-old Heavenly Terveus, who was shot and killed by the father of her child, and Paetra Curry who was run over during a domestic dispute caught on camera in November 2021.

There is much work to be done in the Bahamian community, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel, as the public outcry did not fall on deaf ears.

You Are Not Alone

In addition to women’s rights groups speaking out and putting in the ground work like Coalition of Child Advocates, Rise Bahamas, and Human Rights Bahamas, lawmakers have also spoken out about the matter.

Prime Minister Philip Davis, and Minister of State for the Public Service Pia Glover Rolle have confirmed solidarity with survivors of GBV over the past few months, stating “rape is rape”.

Moreover, Bahamas High Commissioner to CARICOM Leslia Miller-Brice says she’s standing with women who are victims of gender-based violence.

Let’s Continue To Break The Silence

Although cases of GBV may not be slapped across headlines daily, it is important to remember that this is a daily fight.

One phone call to the relevant authorities can save a life. One question can bring to light a heinous crime. One act of love, compassion, or empathy can encourage someone to live to see another day.

Part II of The Rewind’s gender-based violence episode continues in January 2023, with a question and answer session that may help you or a loved one.

If you or someone you know is in need of help or support, reach out.

Police	919	Emergency assistance
Domestic Violence Unit	302-8387	This number can be contacted Monday through Friday between the Hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm for those requiring someone to speak with in confidence.
Bahamas Crisis Centre	328-0922	24-hour hotline

The effects of hurricane Dorian and COVID-19 are still being felt in the community. If you or someone you love is in need of support, call the numbers on the flyer below.