BOILING POINT

Scores of nurses rallied on Monday to demand action against the rising tide of violence against women, following the shocking assault on one of their own. Describing the attack as a “national disgrace”, the nurses marched through the streets of the Corporate Area, chanting “Enough is enough” and “Keep your feet off our heads”, as their ranks grew throughout the day.

The march began about 8 a.m. at the University Hospital of the West Indies, where the assaulted nurse is employed, snaking its way to the National Heroes Circle, then along East Street in downtown Kingston, and continued in surrounding areas into the afternoon.

“We’re not just standing for one person. We are standing for all women in Jamaica who have been victims of abuse,” said Deondra Facey, a nurse of 13 years at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital in Kingston.

The assault, which reportedly stemmed from road rage and took place on the nurse’s way to work last Tuesday, was carried out by a man. Footage of the incident showed him manhandling the nurse, and even stepping on her head.

The police have since charged 65-year-old businessman Robert Bell with multiple offences, including assault occasioning bodily harm, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and possession of a firearm with intent to commit an offence.

His lawyer, Christopher Townsend, confirmed that Bell remains in custody and will appear in court later this week.

The incident has ignited a firestorm of anger, with citizens and activists alike calling for an end to the widespread violence against women. The protest saw support from civil society groups, healthcare professionals, and political leaders, all united in their demand for change.

One nurse, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Gleaner that she was furious after seeing the video.

“Vengeance inna mi heart because this is a woman. And the worst part, mi see har uniform, and a one like mine, so mi get worser upset ... . Anyone a wi cudda deh a road a go a work like she. Any one a wi coulda go anyweh and a situation like this present itself to us,” she said.

Another nurse, also speaking anonymously, shared her personal pain, recalling a similar attack she endured six years ago when she was robbed and beaten while on her way to work.

“I’m now suffering from post-concussion syndrome, something that I will have to live with for the rest of my life. So when I saw what she was going through, it was personal for me. I cried because I know exactly how she felt in that moment,” the nurse said, fighting back tears.

“It’s time now for them to start doing something. Women and children are under attack,” another nurse said.

Dawn Marie Richards, president of the Nurses Association of Jamaica, said colleagues across the island have been mobilised in solidarity to create continued awareness about violence against women and children. She said similar demonstrations took place on Monday in Portland; Spanish Town, St Catherine; St James; St Ann; and St Mary.

“We are hoping that we can impact the policymakers to ensure that when persons are caught, they are given the full brunt of the law. But we also want to help our women and children to identify signs of domestic abuse, identify signs that they can speak about, and find safe spaces that they can to share their concerns,” she said.

In 2021, the World Bank indicated that more than one in four Jamaican women experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or from a non-partner.

Gender Affairs Minister Olivia Grange, who joined the Kingston protest, condemned the attack and reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring justice. She also highlighted recent legislative reforms, including amendments to the Domestic Violence Act and the implementation of the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, which are aimed at enhancing the protection of victims. Grange added that ongoing discussions are taking place to further strengthen laws, with a review under way that could result in new legislation being introduced.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton said he had not received any reports of disruptions in services in the public health system, noting that the healthcare sector stands in solidarity with the nursing community.

“I don’t have any reports, ... but with so many nurses out here, it’s possible that some services may be slowed,” he told The Gleaner. “That said, I’ve seen strong support from doctors and other healthcare staff who are ready to step in where needed.”

The minister emphasised the seriousness of the incident and affirmed commitment to ensuring support for the affected nurse. He said the matter is now in the hands of the police and is hopeful that the law will take its course.

“I’m here to give support, to reassure, and where action has to be taken, the legal system should take its course. The police have arrested the [alleged] perpetrator, and we hope that justice will be served,” he said.

Opposition Spokesman on Health Dr Alfred Dawes, who also took joined the protest, denounced the culture of violence against women.

“We have to stamp out this whole idea that it’s okay, that violence against women is acceptable and it’s something that we have to live with. We don’t have to live with it any more. We are a civilised society,” he said.

sashana.small@gleanerjm.com