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| Back then, it took a village to grow children.. artwork by Ray Jackson |
Community spirit, once the lifeblood of our neighbourhoods, now seems like a distant memory, lost in the hustle and bustle of modern life. In today's Jamaica, the sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility that once defined our communities has waned, leaving a void where neighbourly bonds once thrived.
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| Lois and her neighbours |
The reluctance to intervene in the affairs of others, even when witnessing wrongdoing, speaks volumes about the erosion of community solidarity. Fear for one's safety and the safety of loved ones has replaced the instinct to offer support and assistance to those in need. It is sad to see how few are willing to answer the call for help, even in the face of dire circumstances like a house fire or personal tragedy.
A recent incident involving teenagers seeking to connect with their neighbours (a situation I witnessed) underscores the extent to which barriers have risen between us. What once would have been a harmless invitation to play has now become a cause for suspicion and distrust. The breakdown of neighbourly bonds is further evidenced by the lack of basic acknowledgement between residents, as people hurriedly pass each other by, consumed by their concerns and disconnected from the world around them.
In the face of rapid urbanization and the proliferation of high-rise living, which threatens to take over Jamaica, the fabric of our communities is fraying. As people retreat further into their bubbles, the prospect of a future where genuine human connection is increasingly rare looms large. Yet, amidst this bleak outlook, there remains a glimmer of hope – a yearning for a return to the days when neighbours were friends, not strangers, and when the strength of our communities lay in our willingness to support and uplift one another. Jamaica, the time is now to reignite that spirit before it fades into obscurity, reclaiming the essence of community that has defined us for generations!
Writer - Lois Grant
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| Lois Grant |
Lois Grant - JP, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London, is a distinguished communications professional with a legacy of groundbreaking achievements. From her early days at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) to leading the Public Relations unit at Grimax Advertising. She co-founded Innercity Promotions, celebrated for pioneering live dance hall concerts. In the '90s, Grant established her agency, Corporate Image Communications and Productions, creating innovative events for brands like Tastee Limited, COK Credit Union, and the Jamaica National Building Society. Her impact extends to shaping the political landscape of three Caribbean islands, Jamaica included. She was a former Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica (2007-2013). Grant continues to contribute as a consultant working for prestigious entities such as the US Network, NBC Sports and more recently as a travel influencer.
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Lois Stories are very entertaining and televant. Thank you Lois for shsring.
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