Fighting the shadow of child murders

In a country that prides itself on its vibrant culture, warm people, great food and stunning landscapes, there’s an underlying issue casting a dark shadow over Trinidad and Tobago. The issue is the blatant disregard for human lives, especially children’s lives, which we can no longer afford to ignore.

The recent, heart-wrenching tragedy involving the murder of a 13-year-old primary school pupil has rocked our nation to its core once again. This happened even before we had a chance to begin healing (if this were even possible) from the prior massacre of four children in Guanapo, Arima.

We must confront the grim reality that our children are not as safe as they should be. Every parent and every caring citizen must take a moment to imagine the countless times that child may have stood in front of the mirror, summoning the courage to face another day and begin her journey towards healing.

This is not the Trinidad and Tobago we want to be known for—a place where our children face such grave dangers.

The way forward is clear, and it begins with us as a collective society. We must acknowledge that the nation’s children are not someone else’s problem but ours, too. The “if you see something, say something” refrain, echoed by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, must not fall on deaf ears.

The young girl saw something, felt the courage to “say something”, and tragically became a victim for her bravery. This should serve as a stark reminder for all of us. Are we prepared to follow her example and speak out against the injustices happening right before our eyes? Or will we continue to hide behind the false security of our self-made, burglar-proofed prisons?

The time has come for change. We must become a society that protects, nurtures and uplifts its children. No longer can we allow our future leaders, innovators, panmen, hairstylists, lawyers, entrepreneurs and visionaries to live in fear.

We must stand side by side, raise our voices and demand the safety and well-being of our children, for it is in their dreams and aspirations that the true spirit of Trinidad and Tobago resides and continues.

That feeling we’ve felt in our souls is the catalyst needed to motivate and ignite the change that our children so desperately need.

Let us remember the young souls we lost and vow to create a safer, more compassionate Trinidad and Tobago where every child, no matter their economic status, geographic location or race can grow, learn and thrive without fear in this place.

In honour of all the kids whose lives were tragically cut short. The choice is ours. Will we be the change we want to see?

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