THE Mothers Union movement in the Caribbean is concerned about both the escalating rate of crime and the nature of crime and violence presently plaguing the region.
And the group is even more concerned that women and girls are frequently the victims of these crimes, which in many instances are perpetuated in the home by male family members.
This concern was raised yesterday by president of the Barbados Diocesan Mothers Union and vice-president of the Provincial Mothers Union, Jennifer Maynard, at the multi-faith observance service for Commonwealth Day at St Mary’s Church, The City.
Maynard said that in an effort to address this issue, the mothers’ group continued to join other religious groups, Government and non-governmental organizations in devising and implementing programmes and activities.
“Studies show that when women are supported and empowered, all of society benefits. Their families are healthier, more children go to school, agricultural productivity improves and incomes increase. In short, communities become more resilient.
“There is no doubt that empowering women to be key change agents is an essential element to achieving the end of hunger and poverty,” she said.
As he delivered the Queen’s Commonwealth Day Message, Governor General Sir Clifford Husbands, said: “This year, the Commonwealth celebrates the important role that women already play in every walk of life and in every Commonwealth country.”
