« Today's Daily Word - Monday, August 24, 2009 | Main | Bolt does it again! »
August 24, 2009
The following article was carried in today’s observer…read and chew on it!
Nelson bemoans youth looking to dons, foul-mouthed entertainers as role models
Security Minister Dwight Nelson yesterday said that too many youngsters are looking up to dons and "foul-mouthed" entertainers as role models and urged the nation to help the youth change their focus.
"Role models have taken on a different look in the get-rich culture which has taken over our society," Nelson told worshippers at a church service for the Jamaica Police Federation and the Special Constabulary Force Association at the New Testament Church of God in Bayside, Portmore, St Catherine.
"No longer are pastors, teachers, civil servants and policemen - who have achieved their dreams through long, hard work - considered suitable role models by many. They have been replaced by gang leaders and foul-mouthed entertainers," Nelson said.
"We must reject this desecration of our culture. We must, as a nation, recommit ourselves to playing our part in the mission to save our country. We owe it to ourselves, we owe it to our children," he added.
Nelson said the practice was one of the contributing factors to crime in the island.
Citing last week's killing of a policewoman and the shooting of two male cops, Nelson reaffirmed the ministry's support for the police, who he said risk their lives daily to protect the country.
He said that despite several challenges the police must be lauded for their efforts.
"It is an open secret that our law enforcement officers are confronted with great challenges in their mandate and the execution of their duties," he said.
"I say it once more that the Ministry of National Security is committed to playing its part in finding ways to make it easier for the country to fight its challenges."
The service was attended by police from various divisions and formations, as well as members of the church.
Many applauded the minister's comments, interjecting the refrain "is true" wherever possible.
Sophia Azan, custos of St Catherine, urged the police to carry out their duties lawfully.
She said the cops should use power responsibly.
"The police force has a great responsibility that is put in their hands, great power. In exercising that power of authority, always remember that you cannot help the law by breaking the law. Practice what you preach," she said.