By Ramesh Sujanani, Guest Columnist From Jamaica Gleaner

There is no doubt in my mind that many of our adolescents are ignorant of sexual matters, male and female, heterosexual and gay. I can recall, as a child, that my parents said nothing to me; my older brother, by 10 years, gave me an informed talk and a book to read.

So when I understood that Dr Carolyn Gomes’ organisation, Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), produced a book that was explanatory to adolescents, I was pleased that the matter was now being efficiently handled. Dr Gomes is an outstanding paediatrician, and has more kudos in this area than anyone I know. She became tired of medicine and decided to create a career in social life, which she did, first, by becoming Jamaica’s representative of Amnesty International.

Then she headed JFJ, when she condemned the killings and abuse of civilians by state actors, chiefly the police, who became captor, counsel, judge and executioner. The rationale of this move is still being debated among our citizens, almost every day.

As a country, we have noticed serious sexual problems among our young adults, traceable to their teen years. Teenage pregnancy, rape, homosexual tendencies and activities, and sexual behaviour in public places have become rife. I am not sure what plans the Government has to address these social dysfunctions, but all I can discern is chatter, delay and inaction. Without ‘sex-ed’ intervention, these old sores would continue to fester.

Dr Gomes, having seen the developments in the rest of the Caribbean, decided to proceed with a programme she would review from time to time. Rightfully or wrongfully, she made a decision.

Dangers of buggery

Professor Brendan Bain gave his opinion about the matter of buggery being a sex act with inherent dangers, including vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections.

The two physicians did what they thought was in the best interests of their country, and both are being castigated. I do notice the strong support in the case of Professor Bain and the call for the GG to strip Dr Gomes of her meritorious award. Dr Gomes was formerly a Thwaites, which is one of Jamaica’s oldest families, and I believe a descendant of George William Gordon.

So why the support for Bain and the vilification of Gomes? Both are outstanding medical professionals with ties to the Caribbean. Each did what he or she felt was necessary in a sexually sensitive environment. Could it be linked to the difference in colour? What else would there be? Perhaps the reaction is driven by considerations about race and colour, and not truth, fact, and fairness.

Ramesh Sujanani is a businessman. Email feedback to [email protected]

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IMAGE: Former senator Anthony Johnson amid church groups opposed to the repeal of the buggery law.

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