Dear Editor,
I am writing to address prominent issues regarding the social and economic welfare of my fellow Bahamians – rich and poor, seen and forgotten. For months I’ve been meaning to write to you, but I didn’t know exactly which topic to focus on. First, the Bahamas high school graduation requirements, set by the Ministry of Education, disheartens me. It is frustrating that ill-advised expectations for students were implemented, without a precursory plan to address significant issues like child abuse, financial and emotional instability of guardians, and unsafe home environments. Then, talks about legalizing rape within marriage resurfaced in the media. The conversations following revealed that a substantial amount of people in our country have destructive mindsets about women and sex. I had hoped that in 2022, most of society would have realized that pure love encompasses respect, dignity, and yes, a choice.
My frustrations reached their peak when my friend died at the Princess Margaret Hospital. Before her death, an eye-witness alleged that the staff took her case lightly, despite knowing that she had a high-risk pregnancy and was showing obvious signs of distress. My friend is not the first case brought to the public’s attention, revealing negligence by hospital staff that caused death. I miss you, Meghan. After cases like these, it would be comforting to hear of progressive investigations and dismissal of staff, but this rarely is the case, which leads me to the second reason I am writing this letter.
Unless there is action taken, accountability set, and nepotism eradicated, we, as a people, are going to drown in the waters of pain. People are hurting, and hurting people are dangerous people. If this pain is not addressed and properly treated, it will create a destructive cycle in the lives of many Bahamian residents. We are already seeing the fruits.
There are an array of issues evident within our society, that are blatantly taken lightly by the proper authorities and everyday civilians. Homelessness is rampant, addiction is prevalent, mental illness is ignored, incest occurs frequently, and inhumane care at medical facilities is constantly being reported, yet, what has been done to bring change?
Are we truly one people, united in love and service? It’s not just our pledge, it’s our prophecy. There are charities, businesses, and good Samaritans who are trying their best to change this country for the better. However, we all need to do our part. I hope this letter inspires every reader to assist in the development of The Bahamas – give to the poor, help the helpless, and treat people the way we would want to be treated. Step outside of your comfort zone, and take action for your neighbor’s welfare.
From the fetus to the elderly, the addict to the sober, the abused woman to the abused man, the educated to the uneducated, the Bahamian born to the expat—everyone in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas should be cared for. This is our duty, so let’s make it happen.
Sincerely,
Alexandria King
Trainer and Visionary
The Film of Hope, Director
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