NASSAU, The Bahamas – The annual observance of Child Protection Month in The Bahamas during the month of April, not only provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to come together to reflect, to raise awareness, and, most importantly, to commit across all sectors to the protection of the nation’s children, but to also reaffirm the sacred, shared, responsibility to nurture, guide, and safeguard the youngest members of society, Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda said Thursday.
The commemoration of the month is backed up by year-round interventions and/or collaborations between child protection officials across all sectors of society.
Minister LaRoda was addressing the annual Child Protection Month Church Service hosted by the Child Protection and Childcare Facility Units of the Department of Social Services, in conjunction with the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect Unit (SCAN) of the Ministry of Health and Wellness. The Church Service was held at Bible Truth Ministries, Martin’s Close, Cowpen Road.
“I am reminded of the wisdom in Proverbs 31:8, which says: ‘Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute,’” Minister LaRoda said. “This is our call to action as a community. We are called to speak for those who are vulnerable, to stand up for the children who may not yet have a voice, but whose lives are precious and deserving of our protection.
“Child protection is not solely the responsibility of any one profession or agency. It is the responsibility of us all. From our churches to our schools; from our neighbourhoods to our workplaces, we must all come together, work in collaboration, and be vigilant in ensuring that no child is left behind, forgotten, or harmed.
“As I stand before you today, I call upon every member of this congregation, and every person in our community, to remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children. Let us commit to offering support to struggling families, to reaching out to children in need, and to never turning a blind eye when we can make a difference.”
Mr. LaRoda said the 2025 theme: “Powered by Hope; Strengthened by Prevention,” is a profound reminder of the dual pillars upon which effective child protection is built.
“Hope represents the unwavering belief that every child deserves a future filled with opportunity, safety, and love. Prevention represents the proactive steps we must take -- individually and collectively -- to avert harm and ensure that children grow up in environments where they are protected from neglect, abuse, and trauma.
“As a society, we are indeed powered by hope. We have hope for a brighter future of every child in our care, every child within our reach, and every child entrusted to our collective responsibility. It is this hope that propels us forward in our shared mission to create safer and healthier environments for children to grow, learn, and thrive.”
But hope alone, Minister LaRoda continued, is not enough
“We must also be strengthened by prevention. This means that, as a community, we need to prioritize early intervention and support for families before challenges escalate into crises. It means strengthening our child protection systems by strengthening staff capacity with consistent specialized training, improving stakeholder networks, enforcing legislation, refining research and data collection methods, among other factors. It also means ensuring that every child has the resources, support, and guidance they need to succeed. This can only happen through a concerted effort by private and public sector and committed community involvement.”
Minister LaRoda applauded the efforts of the many professionals and community members whose dedication and tireless efforts, he said, are at the forefront of child protection – these include, but are not limited to teachers, guidance counsellors, law enforcement officials, healthcare professionals, social workers, and parents, whom he said are the first and most important protectors of their children.
“Teachers, you are the first line of support in identifying and nurturing vulnerable children. Your compassion and vigilance play an essential role in shaping children’s lives and ensuring their well-being.
“Guidance Counsellors, your work helps children navigate complex emotional and social challenges, providing them with the tools they need to overcome adversity and flourish.
“Law enforcement officers, you stand as defenders of justice, working tirelessly to ensure that children are protected from harm, and that perpetrators of abuse are held accountable.
“Healthcare professionals, your critical role in identifying signs of neglect and abuse, along with providing care, support, and healing, is a fundamental part of our collective efforts in safeguarding children.
“Social Workers, you are the bridge between families and vital services, ensuring that children and families receive the help they need to overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier lives.
“And, of course, parents -- who are the first and most important protectors of their children, providing love, care, and guidance. Together, each of these individuals and professionals make an immeasurable impact in our collective mission to protect children and strengthen families.
“Together, powered by hope and strengthened by prevention, we can create a world in which every child has the opportunity to grow up in safety, security, and love. May God bless our children, our families, and all of us who serve them, and may we continue to stand united in the pursuit of justice, compassion, and care,” Minister LaRoda added.
(BIS Photos)
