NASSAU, The Bahamas — Minister of Social Services and Community Development, the Hon. Melanie S. Griffin, Friday urged victims of domestic violence and/or abuse to report those matters to the Police – regardless of whom the perpetrator is. “No one deserves to suffer abuse at the hands of another, let alone a family member,” Mrs. Griffin said.
“When the person who hurts you; whose violence you fear is not a stranger, but is someone close to you; someone you live with; someone you have loved and shared your life with, it makes the hurt and pain even deeper. “But you need to know that you do not need to let any of these feelings paralyse you or stop you from seeking help. Report it to the Police.”
Mrs. Griffin’s impassioned plea came in wake of a spike in the incidences of violence against women in particular, and men and children in general, and as a result of the killing of a young mother of two as a result of domestic violence.
Officials from the Ministry of Social Services and the Ministry of National Security said reducing the number of domestic violence cases in The Bahamas – particularly those relating to murder – in the country. Mrs. Griffin said there is no need for victims of domestic abuse to feel “ashamed,” play the blame game, or experience any of the other negative emotions associated with being a victim.
“You may be scared, afraid and even ashamed and embarrassed to talk about it, but know that you do not need to let any of these feelings paralyse you or stop you from seeking help,” Mrs. Griffin said.
“If you are a woman of faith, you may feel even more conflicted and even trapped,” Mrs. Griffin continued, “but again, remember, no one deserves to suffer abuse at the hands of another”
