Policewomen Honoured by Charity Organisation

Charity organisation Sarah’s Children recently joined hands with the S Hotel in Montego Bay, St. James, to host a luncheon to honour 30 policewomen of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

The event, which was held on March 25 at the S Hotel on Jimmy Cliff Boulevard (formerly the Hip Strip), was also in celebration of the 75th anniversary of women serving as an integral part of the JCF, underlining their invaluable contributions to law enforcement in Jamaica.

The atmosphere, notably the tributes, was charged with respect, admiration and gratitude as the policewomen were acknowledged and lauded for what many see as their unwavering commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of their communities.

“I am here to express my profound appreciation for the relentless efforts and sacrifices made by these policewomen on a daily basis,” Montego Bay’s Mayor, Councillor Richard Vernon, said.

“They play a critical role… have been doing so for 75 years… in the day-to-day operations of the JCF and in safeguarding the rights and liberties of the citizens of Jamaica. On behalf of the St. James Municipality, I must also commend their steadfast resolve in the face of adversity, and their unwavering commitment to serving the public with integrity, compassion, and valour,” he added.

Other stakeholders, including several business interests, stepped forward too to offer their tributes, recognising what they say have been the “indispensable contributions” of the policewomen in maintaining law and order, fostering community engagement, and building trust between law-enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

“Your words today have underscored the significance of gender diversity and inclusivity in law enforcement and the invaluable perspectives and skills that women bring to the field,” Attorney-at-Law, Tameka Bryce, told the gathering of those paying tributes.

“It is with a great sense of pride that I say thank you to all our policewomen across the nation for the job they have been doing on our streets, inside the communities… inside our schools. I cannot say enough about their indispensable roles in shaping a safer and more secure society for all,” she said.

Founder of Sarah’s Children, businesswoman and media practitioner, Janet Silvera, said the luncheon was not merely a moment of celebration but also a poignant reminder of the challenges and barriers that policewomen have had to overcome in their journey towards empowerment and equality.

“This luncheon serves as part of a rallying cry for continued support, recognition, and advocacy for women in law enforcement, and by emphasising the importance of creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all,” Ms. Silvera said.

“It also serves as a powerful testament to the timeless values of courage, honour and service that define the spirit of the JCF and the remarkable women who are an integral part of its legacy,” she added.

Ms. Silvera further explained that in partnership with the S Hotel, the idea was to put on an event that “stands as a beacon” of inspiration, empowerment, and recognition for the 30 policewomen of the JCF who have dedicated their lives to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and community service.

“Their journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women in law enforcement and a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that dedicated individuals can have on society,” she added.

Custos of St. James, Hon. Conrad Pitkin, in lauding the organisers, said the luncheon provided a platform not only for celebrating the 75-year milestone of women in the JCF, but also for paying heartfelt tributes to “these dedicated” servicewomen.

“Every speaker’s words have resonated deeply, affirming the profound impact that these extraordinary policewomen have had on the fabric of Jamaican society,” he noted.

“The air was filled with a sense of camaraderie, solidarity, and sisterhood, underscoring the bonds of friendship and mutual respect that had been forged among these exceptional women,” Custos Pitkin added.

Sarah’s Children is an advocacy group formed with the objective of caring for and protecting children and the elderly, particularly those who are disabled.

It was founded three years ago and named in honour of Ms. Silvera’s mother, Sarah, and which also focuses on assisting women.