NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Members of The Bahamas Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, along with visiting Regional and National members, painted a few legislative offices in Nassau red as they participated in various activities as part of their annual Bahamas Delta Days at the Capital (DDAC) 2024. The sorority members engaged in a parliamentary tour, legislative meetings, courtesy call, and a public education forum, to have their voices heard on important anti-crime bill amendments, address concerns about violence, and advocate for safer communities.
Under the theme, "Taking a Stand by Taking our Seats," members of the sorority met with legislators on April 10th & 11th and advocated to have their voices heard on amendments to the Bail Act and the Anti-Gang Bill, crime in general, and to explore potential solutions to address this pressing issue in the country while reaffirming their uncompromising commitment to communities and the government.
With the guidance of the National Social Action Committee, Delta Days aims to initiate dialogue and foster tangible solutions by engaging with those in positions of power.
The program commenced with a social action charge delivered by Southern Regional Social Action Coordinator Alfreda Coward. Coward emphasized the vital role played by members in raising awareness among legislative bodies and stressed the importance of collective action, advocacy, and advancement to empower communities.
Dressed in their signature red attire, members of all ages then gathered in Rawson Square and embarked on an enlightening tour of the House of Assembly, where they were educated on the fundamental principles of parliamentary democracy in the Westminster system.
The sorority members then had the privilege of a courtesy call with Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Cynthia Pratt, who commended the community efforts of The Bahamas chapters and underscored the importance of mentorship programs. Her Excellency encouraged the members to continue being positive role models and to positively impact the community through partnerships with schools, mentorship programs, and NGOs throughout the country.
The first day of the program concluded with a public education forum, titled "Crime's Shadow: Illuminating Its Impact on Our Communities" which took place at the University of the Bahamas, Harry C. Moore Library. The panel featured Attorney Romona Farquharson-Seymour, Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Rodger Thompson, and Ms. Khandi Gibson from Families of All Murder Victims (FOAM). The panelists provided valuable insights and views on the proposed recent amendments to the Bail Act and the tabled Anti-Gang Bill. Additionally, the discussion also revolved around initiatives that the sorority and other non-governmental organizations could undertake to address the root causes of crime.
The courtesy call on Attorney General (AG), Senator the Honorable L. Ryan Pinder culminated the two-day program. The legislative meeting with the nation's AG allowed for the members to discuss further the proposed amendments to the Bail Act and the tabled Anti-Gang Bill. The AG acknowledged the challenges in ensuring that sureties fulfill their responsibilities and highlighted the potential deterrent effect of penalties outlined in the Anti-Gang Bill for those involved in gang activities. The conversation underscored the collective effort required to combat crime, emphasizing the significance of engagement and participation from the government, police, and the community. The importance of conflict resolution skills among young individuals and the decline in community involvement in raising children were also addressed.
The Bahamas Country Coordinator, Shery Poitier, expressed the commitment of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members to advocacy work, stating, "It was great to have an opportunity to be able to collectively get a better understanding of the proposed amendments to the Bail Act and the tabled Anti-Gang Bill. As Bahamian Delta women, we continue to rise to the challenge of advocacy and action like we've done throughout the history of our sisterhood."
Bahamas Social Action Coordinator and Delta Days chair Catherine Adderley and co-chair Shakera Johnson stated that this year's event aimed to encourage members to engage with key stakeholders, advocate for a better quality of life for Bahamian residents and remain solution-oriented.
"It was really wonderful to have been able to pay a courtesy call on the governor-general and the AG," Adderley said. "They both spoke extensively about the role NGOs play in assisting with the fight against crime. It was a great opportunity for us to talk with them and to better understand the very important role the three Bahamian chapters can play to help deter crime in our country."
Valderez Miller, Chapter President of the Nassau, Bahamas Alumnae Chapter, said she was extremely proud to have hosted this year's program. "We have work to do throughout The Bahamas to protect and prevent our youth and citizens in general from being targeted," Miller said. "I am elated that the Sorors of the fierce and focused Bahamian chapters are at the forefront of our efforts in raising awareness of the challenges we face today. We will continue to be on the frontline doing the work."
Over 100 people participated in this year's DDAC including members of the organization and the public. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is the largest African American women's organization in the country, founded in 1913 to promote academic excellence, provide scholarships, support underserved communities, contribute to positive public policy, and address community issues.
"There is so much that Delta is doing. We believe it is important to be involved in our communities, and this year's program again underscored our commitment to social action." Upsilon Zeta Chapter, President, Lemicka K. Williams.
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