LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Abuse of women in politics

letter to the editorWhy have the Dominica Women Organizations and groups not taken a public stance against such public abuse by politicians against women?

Listening to the speeches at the just concluded Labour Party Rally on Monday and comments of others, I am now convinced that I must express myself too. I am a mother of a little girl – many times she tells me of boys in her class who are calling “Black Dog!”. Mind you! These are boys who are not doing well in class. I have to motivate and instill in my daughter “What a BLACK BEAUTY SHE IS!”

The leaders of our Country seem to be very comfortable to be  in a public forum and belittle women who are brave and bold enough to say “ I am capable of running this country too” .  They attacked their education, the person, their private/family lives and anything else that comes to mind etc.  And while these men are degrading these brave and bold ladies, other women are cheering them on and clapping – and think it is so funny.

Dominica has made great strides in the development of women’s liberation and education, we can boast of having one of the World’s greatest woman Prime Minister Dame Eugenia Charles. She has set the standard for us to follow, when Dame Eugenia spoke the then President of the USA listened. She was abused by her male colleagues – often attacked about her unmarried and childless status (personal issues) and rarely on her ability and capability.

Dame Eugenia Charles and Neva Edwards (Former Speaker of the House of Assembly) have set the standard for us (women) to follow – great women like:  Loreen Bannis, Gloria Shillingford, Carissa Etienne, Jacinta Bannis, Justina Charles and many, many others, who are holding leadership positions in every arm of Government or Institutions (privately and/or publicly). These women are daughters, mothers, wives, sisters, aunties, friends, confidantes etc, yet are ready , able and willing to sacrifice a bit more of ourselves for  community/country development.

We are seeing the same trend today – where men stand in public and continue to debase women, while other women cheer them on.

I ask myself – where are the “Women’s Organizations” and groups whose mission here is to safe guard against the abuse, debasing, belittle of women and girls from anyone and in any form in this country,  and to ensure our rights are not trampled on.  No matter what political affiliation one has – the rights of women should and must always be safe guarded against- ALWAYS!  Why have the Dominica women organization and groups not taken a public stance against such public abuse by politicians against women?  Why have women (who are in these leadership positions) not spoken against this form of abuse?

Our leaders on both sides of the party lines have to respect women publicly and privately, they must set the example for all of us to follow. I would like to urge all Politicians to stay on the issues that are relevant to the Country’s development. Present your report card, your plans, and dreams, your manifesto.   Trust us – We are smart enough! We will come to the conclusion! Truth is addicted to light – it must come forth!  Stay on the path of excellence! Be great States Men and Women! We have had enough of “Mal-Parle-ing”.  To lend a line from one of Dominica’s National Songs “ Arise! Arise! Dominicans arise and strive to make an earthly paradise!

 

Marian Jno-Finn

[email protected]

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110 Comments

  1. AMAZED
    May 12, 2014

    Ok,I will give any woman who agrees to or find nothing wrong with what reginal austrie said about Ms. Williams the benefit of the doubt. I don’t think they fully understood what was said; This man is a tyrant and I fail do believe that he was born of a woman and have a wife and daughters. Women of Dominica needs to rise up against this tyrant

  2. siserrou parrarot
    May 11, 2014

    This attack should be stopped long time ago but this government believe in promoting stealing elections by calculating the amount of supporters a community need and plunge in diapooria and pay passage for lazy Dominicans who can’t visit their country and wait for a plane ticket t o come down and vote shame on those wasted maltawavy Dominica. That why senior is curse with poverty cause they started the trend

  3. Opinionated
    May 10, 2014

    I disagree with the author – one cannot talk about equality for both men and women yet the cry is only about debasing women. The theme of the article should speak about debasing personalities be it men or women.

    Feminism is a very destructive ideology created by white women in Europe, I do not understand why black women follow the footsteps of white women whereas the black woman worked alongside the black, struggled together with the black man since slavery days; they were equal partners in medieval and ancient Egypt. Feminism is one of these ideologies that is responsible for destroying many relationships and marriages.

    • outside
      May 11, 2014

      Thank you for your balanced comment. It would seem that the author is fine with men abusing men in politics. Alsi she has not quoted any abusive staement made by whom made and against whom made and at what event. One cannot present a case without evidence. I await for the evidence from the author.

  4. messenger
    May 10, 2014

    I support Ms. Jno. Finn statement. This is not party line talk. I am a woman and i feel the same way. It is time that politicians respect women who have decided to take up the mantle, we as women are not only foot soldiers and doing the house to house campaighning. Hon. P.M please stop the politicians who do this on your platform. Remember you have a beautiful wife, politics or not women demand respect especially on the eve of mother’s day.i therefore, condemn Hon Austrie statement.

  5. Radio Codcarpi
    May 10, 2014

    @ ocra a good name is indeed better than riches, so why did she have stolen cow meat in her freezer. She brought in on herself. No one forced her to aide and abet a thief. Lets discuss that people.

    • >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
      May 11, 2014

      You are too dam stupid and ignorant. If only you could read you would have contributed better than that.
      Having said this, i believe this is what we as a people have come to accept from this gang of man/women posing as a Labour Party. I too condemn it, and join with the rest of the constituents of St Joseph in rallying strongly with Monell. Criticisms like this one only helps to solidify Monells position, and her support base.

  6. Righteous
    May 10, 2014

    While I do not condone the mistreatment of Women in any aspect of society, I am not going to jump on this bandwagon about disrespect of women in politics. Politics in Dominica has and still remain without substance on most level. The name calling from both sides, the personal attack from both sides will continue until “we the people” decide that enough is enough. We go to these rallies and clap, laugh and shout when some of these politicians attack each other because we support party no matter what.

    It is time that we change the mentally of these politicians. Come with some substance, tell us how you are going to empower us as a people, as a nation. Everybody talking about what Reggie said about Miss Williams as an attack on women, enough of this “Man should stop bashing Women” business. What he said about Mr. Linton was no better. I will challenge all of you to hold your politicians accountable, whether RED, BLUE, GREEN, WHITE, BLACK etc. Let us not be party opportunists. They should all stop and bring some substance to the table, be it UWP, Team Dominica, Labour, Freedom or the Reform Labour party. As a people let us take a stance about Mepwi in Politics and demand more substance.

    #Citizens against “Mepwi” in Politics.

    One Love Dominicans!!!!!

  7. Open Mind
    May 10, 2014

    We all know who Austrie is by now, don’t we expect dogs to brk? A man only brings out what he has within,every time this man opens his mouth, is to insult and be inhumane. One would swear that he speaks the same language that he excrete. This man is so unfit to be in government. When is it that Dominica is gonna have the right people to govern the country?

  8. dat
    May 9, 2014

    When you put yourself in politics you are playing with fire. See what Hilary Clinton and Obama’s wife went through they were called names. That’s ashame to be siding one set of women that’s what you call pure hypocrite.

    • >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
      May 11, 2014

      @ dat Reggie referred to himself as a dog. You refer to yourself as ‘dat’. The two of you are almost the same.

  9. Anonymous
    May 9, 2014

    ouch!!!! the shoe do hurt when it’s on the other foot~~~

  10. La Femme d'Austrie
    May 9, 2014

    Happy Mother’s day every one. You are all beaufiful and God loves you. They say silence is a golden rule, especillay when you are going to speak the dispeakable. I do not, do not condone what Reg has uttered. As a hard working mother, I go thru that abuse, being referred to as a d donkey. Such behaviour shows pretence in love for mother.
    And Alix, you should have never referred to yourself as a vermin on a political platform or otherwise, unless you are downright serious.
    Iy is also a big disrespect to our present and fore-mothers.
    Let 298 square miles(Da,) be a good example to the whole wide world, including the U.S of A.

  11. JoJo
    May 9, 2014

    Typical, the NEP brigade out in force again for damage control. It is too obvious. Austrie is not a proper representative for the image of our country. Roosevelt Skerrit damaging himself having that man talking in public. He has no manners. Monelle or no Monelle. The man gives our country a bad name.

  12. listener
    May 9, 2014

    Miss William are you saying that you entered the fight without your stick? well you either get used to it or you bow out while it’s still early, you know the game ,you join the game ,so play the game girl and stop crying . :-P

    • ???????????
      May 9, 2014

      @listener She won’t bow out. WINNERS DON’T QUIT! I personally believe that Austrie has put Kelver further behind in the race, AND HAS MADE MONNELS WIN EASIER.. If only you had just half a brain you would have known that.

    • My View
      May 9, 2014

      @Listener…I sincerely hope you are not a woman condoning such gutter politics…and is that what politics is all about …a fight?….Well no wonder so many GREAT women who can make a bigger CONTRIBUTION and IMPACT to the development of the country than some of these USELESS men, , shy away from service…..

  13. Anonymous
    May 9, 2014

    Much a do about nothing. Just another supporter of the UWP demonstrating hypocracy again and trying to take sound bites from the massive DLP rally to make the party look bad. What about all the crap that was spoken about Loreen and Alix? While I do not condone any of this, it is politics my friend, and is the world over. Look at the fun that is made of Sarah Palin in the US. I just think that this thing is being overblown for polical purposes and to gain sympathy for the UWP St. Joe candidate. Unfortunately for you guys, prolonging this won’t get the woman elected.

    • May 9, 2014

      Dont put Sarah Palin in your magshee.We like her in AK.She knows how to make mula

  14. Well...
    May 9, 2014

    So Reggie say she like cow meat/”bef”/beef… all he meant is that she like to gossip and/or she like trouble. That she doesn’t need to know the facts or where the news come out just bring it for her. All he tell her is to not mind other people business before minding her own/her children.

    I don’t know her, never met her – so I can’t say if this is true or not. I am as feminist as they come (although I prefer equalising, no gender should get more favour than the other) and hardly politically affiliate, just and observer. And people are making such a commotion over this, whether he meant that beef is all she can afford, or he insinuated that it was a threat and someone should poison beef for her, and all other sorts of things. And people say Dominicans don’t have an imagination.

    And as for unsavoury comments being made towards women in public office and the wives of women in public office. that’s as dumb as a celebrity being shocked to find a paparazzi outside their property. It comes with the territory! And you’re right Dame Charles and the speaker are strong women who knew what they were getting into and took it in strides. do you think that women are the only ones getting lashed.

    Would you prefer women only went after women, and men after men, or no one went after women, or maybe no one went after one. It’s a nice thought admittedly, but it is a naive one to the core. Stop looking at it as “women and me”, look at it as politicians, as persons in public office, as persons who chose to be in the spotlight on a national or international stage. You think Monelle crying over this, I doubt it. If she was strong enough to put herself out there, I would venture to think that she knew what she was getting into like any other MAN or WOMAN.

  15. real possie
    May 9, 2014

    I love doing my research, I went back to check on an not so old case of the young lady that got killed in Portsmouth and am looking for Marian Jon-Finn blog or posting as to giving her hopefulness of the young lady safe return to her kids did not see her name on any looked at the one when they did find her body God bless her soul did not find any did not see a letter talking about abuse and murder in Dominica against women maybe there is other news she may have, given her views on the matter but I did not see her name on either so I will ask again where were you in those times? for those of you that might want to take me to task go to DNO past news date 11/08/13 look at both then come lambast me.

  16. james
    May 9, 2014

    If you want to be treated equaly, and you are, whats the fuss. unless you pick want you want to be treated equal on.

  17. Jude Nicholas
    May 9, 2014

    DNO all I am reading and hearing is that Reggie Austrie was degrading to Miss Williams. Have you ever done any research to find out the moral behind the story. I heard Blessings gave an insight this morning on Q95. He was saying brothers kill wrong cattle and place some meat on a freezer can you follow up on lead.

    Does the story have any thing to do with brothers putting cow meat on a freezer? why wont you do some investigation and report.

    • %
      May 9, 2014

      Jude after your long hibernation you have come back sounding even more foolish than you were. You are even more stupid than Austrie now, so you can imagine!.
      I would like to cndemn the attack on Monnel and would like to call on all right thinking women, all across the island to do the same. I have already heard the sentiments on many, but still i believe that this is not enough. This entire month needs to be taken highlighting to the people the nature of some of the leaders in this WICKED LABOUR PARTY, that poses as a government. This attack is degrading to all women and this is why i am happy to hear the sentiment of those women who feel insulted by people who are supposedly LEADERS OF OUR GOVERNMENT.

  18. Just Asking!
    May 9, 2014

    Dominicans, let’s be honest and not political…should a rally when one expect EVERY member of parliament to be sharing his works and plans with the public be used to tarnish another human being?

    Was is right for Mr. Austrie to insinuate through his speech that since Monelle likes cow meat, she will do “anything for cow meat”? What doesn’t he mean by that? Is shs so cheap that she will even have sex for cow meat? And that is not denigrating?

    Should we encourage such policy degeneration in our political discourse?

    Dominican stop being red, blue, green and yellow and look at speeches from our elected members objectionably- That’s all I am asking.

  19. james
    May 9, 2014

    Equality, take your it or leave it.

    • lamp
      May 9, 2014

      If you are going that way, then I suppose you are in full support of Miridom and same sex marriage. Take it or leave it. Otherwise, you are the big boss hypoctite.

  20. hypocrite
    May 9, 2014

    Marian Jno Finn peope like you should stop being hypocrite and coming in wolves clothing to score cheap political points for UWP. Alix Boyd Knight was called vhemin, Loreen Bannis was called political hore, u never said a word it was alright for then. Stop being a hypocrite woman Dominicans has read all through all u.

    • %
      May 9, 2014

      @hypocrite I think you are the HYPOCRITE, not the writer. If you have didfficulty understanding English, you need to attend night classes. As i have already done in public, I WOULD LIKE TO CONDEMN this brutal, hostile, denegrating and vicious attack on Monel by Austrie, and would like to call on all women ACROSS THE LENGTH AND BREADTH OF DOMINICA, to show theit total and utter outrage at what this WICKED SETS OF PEOPLE IN THE LABOUR PARTY a.llowed to descend upon Monel.

    • Osanna Mowanga
      May 9, 2014

      Marian, while i like the effort that you are making to help keep your community together, i am wondering what is your criteria for greatness?When you call persons like Loreen, Jacinta,Mrs. Charles great, what have they done that has left the country better?You even mention Gloria> Is it because someone has a position you call them great? Greatness means much more to me.
      When someone is in a position for personal gain, this is not greatness.

  21. May 9, 2014

    The uwp says so much things on the pm no one says nothing :?:

    • Ezra
      May 9, 2014

      Have your read the article? The last time I checked the PM was a MAN

      • lmckoy
        May 9, 2014

        I believe you may have missed the point that was being made. In politics, they attack their opponents – male or female. A politician’s main objective is to get elected and most will do or say whatever they think will get elected. Do you remember how the former US President attacked ‘his friend’ Barack when he realized his wife was not winning?

        By the way, I was a big fan of Ms Charles – not because she was a woman but because of the admirable qualities of strength, competency, honesty, etc. that she displayed!

      • Jose
        May 9, 2014

        Objection when its about our friends.

      • james
        May 9, 2014

        Equality

      • Jessica Walsh
        May 9, 2014

        They said so many things on the Pm wife. So many things on the Speaker of the House, so many things on Loreen Bannis, so many things on Mrs. Charles, Pierre Charles wife.
        I was listening to Rally on Sunday. All of the Parlreps spoke very well and executed some good projects in the pipeline, why aren’t they talking about the positives. These people in the opposition are just speaking baloonie. You know what THE NUMBERS AND THE BRIGHT RED COLOURS DOTISH THEM. THEY FRAID THE POWER OF LABOUR.THEY BLUE VEX. THAT IS A MATTER FOR THEM . THE HAND WRITING IS ON THE WALL.

    • Anonymous
      May 9, 2014

      This editorial was well written. This was not an attack on any individual. The writer spoke to all politicians irrespective of political persusation. In the 2014 the calibre of our politicains should be much higher. It should noted that one of the concerns of many individuals is the academic level of those vieing to do service for country. It therefore stands to reason that our politicians irrespective of party affiliation should conduct themselves as the honourable men and women they are deemed to be.
      Politicians should be aware they are educators, role models, as well as mentors.

      • True
        May 10, 2014

        @ anonymous the editorial was an attack on the DLP. read again paying close attention to this..”Listening to the speeches at the just concluded Labour Party Rally on Monday and comments of others, I am now convinced that I must express myself too…..

    • ()
      May 9, 2014

      @Get out I think the attack was in poor taste, and those who are trying to defend it by saying that they said similar things on Tom, Dick or Harry are even more vicious that Austrie. I agree thaat all womens organisation all across Dominica should have already condemed the attack by a self proclaimned rott weiller.

  22. Informant
    May 9, 2014

    Its amazing that when a DLP candidate was called a political prostitute all lips were sealed; now this is making headlines in Dominica everyone is enraged. Where was the rage back then when Mamo, Alix Boyd knights, Sonia Williams and the other women in politics prior to Monelle under attack? enough with the hypocrisy why should women be treated any differently from male politicians. There was no disrespect in what Reggie said and i see no need for an apology.

    • .
      May 9, 2014

      @Informant Maybe you are just as Austrie is. Are you expecting Dominicans to be so cheap? Were you one of those clapping? Your stomach must have been filled with water , you pocket bursting with free money and free bus fare, so you clapped and clapped. I found the statement was debasing and INSULTIVE, and i highly commend all those who are enraged and furious about it.

    • JoJo
      May 10, 2014

      Oh, I never hear that. Tell me whom was mentioned, who said that , where and when. If it is true that is equally bad but give us the facts pls.

  23. pamela
    May 9, 2014

    I cannot believe UWP supporters and their leaders still on that story. All you that should be ashamed of all yourselves still dwelll on a story that has nothing to do with degrading women.Tell the Dominican public the real story behind that cow meat story. If is that young women all you using for Dominican to feel sympathetic to all you cause . Shame on all you. But St Joseph know why he made that statement and know the story about when he said the young woman like cow meat. When you decide you want to get involve in politics. You better make sure your have no skeleton in your closet. The DLP should come out with the full story behind that cow story for the UWP to find something else to campaign on . I cannot believe a group of grown ass men who are thristy for power using a young women misfortune for their political benefit. Shame on the UWP party lead by Linton !!!!!!!!!

    • Voice
      May 9, 2014

      “I cannot believe a group of grown as men who are thristy for power using a young women misfortune for their political benefit. Shame on the UWP party lead by Linton !!!!!!!!!”

      Are you serious? Pamela you can’t be!

    • .
      May 9, 2014

      @pamela I think this is as insultive as can be. Quite apart from these supposedly being leaders, they owe it to themselves and the other females in their own party to show respect. This statement was denegrating and i would like to join ranks with all those who are still condeming it, and will continue to condemn it. What was even worse and SHAMEFUL was that DLP women themselves were happy at this UNPROVOKED attack at Monel, in her own village od St Joseph.
      Both Skerrit and Austrie mentioned nothing to the St Joseph people (the poorest village on island) about jobs, but loaded their own villager (Monel) with all KINDS OF SATANIC INSULTS!
      I CONDEMN IT!

  24. Shameless
    May 9, 2014

    To all those who seem to believe that Reggie did nothing wrong while verbally abusing and belittling Mrs. Williams while his boss, our PRIME MINISTER and our UN Ambassador cheered him on, I say shame, shame and shame. Some of have tried to justify what Reggie Austrie said by invoking past statements that has no bearing or not of this nature simply to make him appear like he did nothing wrong but no kind of excuses can exonerate such tasteless blatant attack on a woman who is aspiring to serve our country.

    The era of may-pwee politics is a bygone period and NO ONE should support such despicable behavior from those who should know better. This is an attack on all women and any person, women in particular who condones such attack should have their head examined. The behavior of those concerned (Reggie, PM Skerrit, UN Ambassador Vince Henderson) should be publicly shamed and reported to the UN by submitting a copy of the video along with voice recordings.

    Finally, the opposition should organize a protest rally (broad day) consisting of all women who felt affected at the ministry building or St.Joseph playing field (place of the insult) ASAP. Every woman and girl of every age should be invited to send a clear message to “EVERY” politician and men in general that such animalistic behavior towards “OUR” women CANNOT and will NOT be tolerated. Enough is enough! Change is a MUST to get rid of those who will NOT respect our women.

    “I AM FOR CHANGE; ARE U?”
    Assertive, NOT Agressive!

    • JoJo
      May 10, 2014

      And why was the UN Ambassador at a party rally? he is supposed to be neutral because he represents the country, every Dominican and not only labour party. These guys are not diplomatic at all, so sad!

  25. me
    May 9, 2014

    That was quite embarrassing what Austrie said there, and an insight into HIS character and depth of it! Not the kind of guy who I would like to be governed by.

  26. May 9, 2014

    Abuse of Women in Politics? I don’t see any abuse of women in politics. A woman in politics doesn’t make her less or more of a human. She is a POLITICIAN. Politic here is give and take. Simple. If you can’t take just leave the ring.

  27. Doc. Love
    May 9, 2014

    I applaud you Marian for your commentary. I hope you are not affiliated to the UWP or Mr. Lennox Linton, if you are, by this week end you are going to be covered with political dirt. If you listened to the Heng hosted by Krazy and the ex Mayor Cecil Joseph this morning, is a clear indication of what to expect this week end on the so-called Animal Show. The Prime Minister’s wife was sitting no more then five feet from Regie and he behaved in such a despicable manner, tell us with certainty what to expect from the DLP for the political season.

  28. builder...
    May 9, 2014

    its such a shame that the DLP convention was said to be based on the ministers portfolio and Reginald Austrie speach was based on the new uncoming female politician..what have he presented based on his success as a minister during the last 5 yrs?

  29. Alixx
    May 9, 2014

    Marian Jno Finn, please write a similar letter for the attack Alix Boyd Knight received from the UWP and Q95 Journalist

    • ?
      May 9, 2014

      Did the women’s bureau come in defense of Alix?
      The women’s bureau has a mandate to discredit and speak against ALL attacks against women….physical, verbal abuse etc.
      if the DLP men had any respect for women they would protect Alix as well as Monelle from verbal abuse on de political platform.

      i have heard Alix on de political platform……..Doh never try to compare her abusive utterances, to calling Dominican’s to rise up for country with patriotic vigor.

      SHAME SHAME SHAME ON ALIX AND DLP!!!!!!!!!!!!

      FOR THIS CAUSE MONELLE WILL CONTINUE TO RISE!

    • Ezra
      May 9, 2014

      Our leaders on both sides of the party lines has to respect women publicly and privately, they must set the example for all of us to follow. I would like to urge all Politicians to stay on the issues that are relevant to the Country’s development. Present your report card, your plans, and dreams, your manifesto.

      Read this again please!!

    • Ezra
      May 9, 2014

      Our leaders on both sides of the party lines has to respect women publicly and privately, they must set the example for all of us to follow. I would like to urge all Politicians to stay on the issues that are relevant to the Country’s development. Present your report card, your plans, and dreams, your manifesto.

    • !!!
      May 9, 2014

      As far as I remember it was Alix Boyd”sown words and actions that were her downfall!!!!

    • STAND UP WOMEN
      May 9, 2014

      There is not comparism between this situation and what happened to Alix…….As far as I remember it was Alix Boyd”s own words and actions that were her downfall!!!!
      I feel sick when I read some of these comments because I can sense they are coming from women…then I reflect on the high level of domestic abuse in this country and I am not surprised because it is those women who do not hold themselves in high esteem THAT cause men to treat them so badly…..
      WOMEN MUST RISE UP FROM THIS MENTAL SLAVERY…A MAN WHETHER IN POLITICS OR IN THE HOME WILL TREAT YOU JUST THE WAY YOU ALLOW HIM TO ….IF YOU SET HIGH STANDARDS FOR YOURSELF IN EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR LIFE …HE WILL RESPECT AND ADMIRE YOU…..A WOMAN SHOULD NEVER ALLOW ANY MAN TO DRAG HER DOWN TO THE GUTTER WHERE HE IS…..THERE CAN BE NO MAN WITHOUT A WOMAN!!!!!

  30. A JOKE THAT MAN
    May 9, 2014

    To all Dominicans, let us get back to the SWEET and UNDERSTANGING DOMINICA we all were use to. I am pleading with us to stop all these mapwee, jealouse, hatred, selfishness etc. Just because politicians want to run the country does not give us the right to just degrade and insult one another such manner. PEOPLE WE ARE ALL DOMINICANS AND IF WE DO NOT TAKE CARE OF US WHO WILL ? PAPA BONDIER PUT A HAND AND HELP THOSE IN AUTHORITY TO BE A ROLE MODEL TO US. STOP IT , STOP IT, STOP IT. JESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSUS HELP.
    Dhttp://www.vidiani.com/maps/maps_of_north_america/maps_of_dominica/large_detailed_road_and_physical_map_of_dominica.jpg

  31. ?
    May 9, 2014

    I am a proud father of a beautiful 15 year old daughter. She would definitely stand with you on this and she will definitely be supported by her mother, my mother and myself of course.
    FOR THIS CAUSE WE WILL RISE TO!!!!!

  32. Bee
    May 9, 2014

    Thank you Miss Jno-Finn well said!

    Our so called National Council of Women – supposedly an independent organization has apparently not seen it fit to publicly renounce the disgraceful minister’s attack on this young woman who so willingly offered her services for public office.

    Shame too on all those women, who, so blind sided by party colors that they saw nothing wrong and cheered gleefully at the filthy, gutter politics that Austrie was spewing.

    Shame on the Prime Minister who came after and of course said nothing against it because he obviously was okay with it.

    A laborite friend told me “oh all of the politicians like that” talking dirty about the others. My response to her was that was not true and that she needed to listen to both sides in order to make sound decisions based on first hand information as opposed to making a decision based on what other people said. I don’t at all support the DLP but looked at the stream on you tube so i would have first hand information. I advise her and all other right thinking individuals to do the same, listen to the government, listen to the opposition and using a strainer decide what is more credible. I am not asking anyone to listen to the animal show, that is a different story, but when politicians are on platforms, listen – whether u support them or not. then make a sound comparison and eventually a sound decision.

  33. INSENSITIVE
    May 9, 2014

    look mam with all due respect. women always asking for equal rights and opportunity. yet allu want to be treated differently.politics is a dirty game.if you want to be in politics you should have the equal rights and opportunity to be treated just as badly as they do the male politicians.so because you are a woman politicians you not supposed to be attacked.if you cant take the roughness get out of the jam.The man say he feeling sorry for linton wife getting up next to an ugly man every morning .i doh see nobody talking about that. cause linton is a man he can take it. such hypocrisy.

    • Bee
      May 9, 2014

      Actually, Insensitive, that was equally shameful and you are right that should be rejected too. Like I said before his entire thirty minute barrage was filthy.

  34. freddy
    May 9, 2014

    I am a man and a son of a woman, a husband of a wife, a brother of two sisters and a father of a daughter.

    I am appauled at what went on at that rally on Monday. I share in the disgust of all right-thinking Dominicans who stand and condemn all the filth that was spewed from the mouth of these Labour Party pollititians.

    I further call on the many women’s organizations and the church of God to do likewise and COMDEMN these degrading and un-Godly comments. Thanks Ms. Jno Finn..

    • john
      May 9, 2014

      Were u appauled and disgusted when Alix Boyd-Knight was verbally abused by the UWP? Stop your hypocrisy man!!!!!

  35. Anonymous
    May 9, 2014

    What did Austrie say that was degrading? Monell’s choice of meat? How much she loves it? and to ensure that she knows where it was coming from? How is this degrading

    • HMMMM
      May 9, 2014

      Didn’t he also comment that she should stay home and care for her kids?

    • Anonymous 2
      May 9, 2014

      I just wonder how you would react if Austrie spoke in such derogatory terms about your mother,wife or daughter instead.

    • Anonymous
      May 9, 2014

      He Also said if you want Monel to do anything for you show her a piece of meat.
      You find nothing wrong with that?

    • Anonymous
      May 10, 2014

      I’m tryna wonder how this is degrading as well. If you can’t take the roughness don’t come in the jam.

  36. Angel Giraudel
    May 9, 2014

    I absolutely agree with this article. Everyone involve should stay on the subject matter. Criticize constructively. Also as it relates to women supporting women, this is a situation that has existed from biblical times. However, there is no reason why women should not support women.

  37. Pondera
    May 9, 2014

    Excellent commentary. Very objective.

  38. love I
    May 9, 2014

    Hats off to you….I Totally agree, too much of this is going on, and fingers can be pointed to certain politicians who do that all the time…..Time for Women to stand up to this nonsense,,,,even in their private homes…Time for Change.

  39. Shaka Zulu
    May 9, 2014

    Nice piece keep it up. Follow-up with action. Rosa Parks kindled the fight for equal rights. If you act others will find courage to follow. It only takes a spark to get fire going. By your letter i think you got that spark.

  40. A concern citizen
    May 9, 2014

    Well written. I think its high time these politicians elevate the level of political rallies to highlight their achievements and future plans for the economic growth of the country. Stop this gutter politics and mouth slaying. Also the partying must also stop since this is a distraction to guide the masses away from the real issues.

  41. Albert joseph
    May 9, 2014

    leona will adress that,just befor election,it will come back alive around carnival time,we will see who will like it.

  42. pax
    May 9, 2014

    Bravo M. Jno- Finn. I could not have said it so nicely, as enraged as I am.

  43. .
    May 9, 2014

    Women are no exception. Once in politics you are always open to scrutiny and judgment, man and woman alike. If you cant take it please do not enter the game.

  44. NKRUMAH KWAME
    May 9, 2014

    Marian, I could not agree with you more on this issue; however the MAJORITY of women in Dominica, instead of coming together in SOLIDARITY, will, on the contrary, APPLAUD such horrendous arsenic outpourings.
    HOTEP!

  45. Blue Bawi
    May 9, 2014

    Get specific Marian this broad stroke doesn’t work. What do you really want the womens organizations to respond to?

  46. grell
    May 9, 2014

    Sad in Dominica and other women cheered him on,very degrading,and you had a leader of a country and an ambassador listen and cheered this on.Will get a copy to the UN shortly.

  47. May 9, 2014

    who stands, or speaks out when the speaker of the houses were verberly abuse? we only see one side of the coin.

    • freddy
      May 9, 2014

      Interestingly!!!!
      Do you remember the famous “Helen’s legs” speech?
      Do you remember where and who it came from?
      Do you remember who referred to themself as “Vemming”? (not sure that’s how it is spelt)
      Do you remember who sat in the chair of the speaker and allowed a minister to go on and on about women’s antomy in a demeaning way?
      Do you remember who claimed to be a women’s advocate but said nothing about the woman from chance who was viciously attacked and abused by another woman from the Labour Party camp, aided and abbetted by another female talk show host–an integral part of the PR machine of the Labour Party?

      And it goes on. But I dare say two wrongs don’t make a right. What I know is that we need to put a stop to this savagery. A joke is a joke but THis particular minister goes tooooo far.

      More power to our strong beautiful black Dominica women who aspire to make a difference in our country and our world.

  48. Nomination committe
    May 9, 2014

    What did Austrie say that was degrading? Monell’s choice of meat? How much she loves it? and to ensure that she knows where it was coming from? How is this degrading

    • Ezra
      May 9, 2014

      Your understanding of the English language is clearly obscured, if you are making this comment.

  49. Nomination committe
    May 9, 2014

    What did Austrie say that was degrading? Monell’s choice of meat? How much love it? and to ensure that she knows where it was coming from? How is this degrading

  50. kingman
    May 9, 2014

    my friend, it is people like you and all the other organizations who continue to sit by and laugh and cheer when the prime minister is being personally attached and called all sorts of names; oh hypocrite.
    where were you and all of these organizations when the speaker of the house were being abused by the opposition and needed to hear the voices of the women in her defense; oh hypocrite.
    what abuse that went on at the rally?
    well I will not eat cow meat if I don’t know where that meat is coming from; if this is offensive or abusive to women then God help us all.

  51. May 9, 2014

    Women expose their bodies like they advertise them for sale. You see mothers dress their girls with the same nakedness. You go to a formal functions you see men dress from head to toe they even have socks on their feet and socks that go above their ankle but the women if they carry a long dress it is long only front or back or with a long split that one can see their panties if you take a good look. The tops that they put on almost all their breast
    showing. To make worse they put tattoos on thosebreasts. Their tops always too short all their belly outside. They ware their their clothes purposely thin so their gee string can show. I can go on and on. Women must understand if you want respect you must showrespect. When women behave in this manner, man must respond to their behavior. So I am calling on the poowomen right bodies to talk to your women tell them to behave as women and they’ll be treated as such.

  52. anon
    May 9, 2014

    Good article, if it were not for the political bias Iwould give it an a+. Have u heard the things that are been said about women who support the DLP.

    • LOVE
      May 9, 2014

      No I havent heard what is being said about women who support the DLP. Please do tell!?

      • joe
        May 9, 2014

        Well LOVE, if you never heard it shows that you are one-sided playing objective… “Alix in the White House… No way, No way” remember that carnival tune?? You must remember cause it was this year and played many times on Q and on the road….

        Then you must remember the SAVAGE attack the poor lady got from Lennox, and the rest of the cabal right on Q.. she was forced to decline her nomination for the safety of her family..

        I maintain all you people that support the BLUE is delusional!!!!!!!!!

  53. Shameless
    May 9, 2014

    Great, great great piece. Hopefully the guilty ones take note and in particular the politician who proudly refers to himself as the bulldog. But Change MUST Come.

    “I AM FOR CHANGE; ARE U?”
    Assertive, NOT Agressive!

  54. Tri-State Beauty
    May 9, 2014

    Marian I co-sign with you on this, however don’t expect the Women”s Bureau or even the very women in that political party to speak up. I have long held the view that we women are our worst enemies. We feel comforted, detached, even “uplifted” when another woman is being demoralized. I do know this, that insecure people like Reginald Austrie need to stoop this low to validate their existence. People who lack substance, always attempt to ridicule others to make themselves appear important. We always convince ourselves it’s not me, it’s them, it’s her… truth is he was speaking to every single Dominican woman!

  55. Anonymous
    May 9, 2014

    Once she threw her hat into the political ring she was not just a woman but a political candidate and should be subjected to the same amount of scrutiny and critic as any other candidate.The Honorable Justina Charles has had her fair share of critic and ridicule from the other side, where were you then?

  56. Ben Dover
    May 9, 2014

    Strangely I have not heard from Alix Boyd-Knights who has been touted as a “defender” of women and who is asking for more women in parliament.

    Her silence is deafening.

    Does she have anything to say after the crude bashing of potential women MPs and other women by Reginald Austrie at the DLP rally?

    • True
      May 9, 2014

      @Ben Dover, are u serious. Alix Boyd-Knight has been continually savaged by the UWP and its supporters. The silence on your part when Alix Boyd-Knight was been attacked is indeed deafening.

  57. big boss man
    May 9, 2014

    I was at the rally,did not hear any abuse of women maybe some jokes,a little humor but abuse? Lady maybe you listened to the abuse which the brother of the leader of the uwp and others hurled at the parl rep for Grandbay,maybe a little confused!

  58. Pret
    May 9, 2014

    True say Marian, when we need the voices of those organizations the most is when they seems to be asleep, it’s about time things change.

  59. listener
    May 9, 2014

    I was at the rally on may 5th I heard some questions ,comments, and what I would consider little sense of humour during some speeches, such as cow meat , candidate crying ,and so fourth but never heard any thing like any body were called prostitute like the uwp did to the former pal rep of the castle bruce constituency when she crossed the floor, caisonian and all joined the band wagon against her, wasn’t that bad enough to write such a letter ? or maybe it was written and I wasn’t aware ,I’m in no way against the letter but I would like to see some balance here, so many things are being said about the speaker of the house ,the PM’s name is being dragged in the gutter every day is it ok??? give me a break.

  60. May 9, 2014

    I agree with that article but women must learn to carry themselves. Too many times I see women dress three-quarter naked. Shock a

  61. committed Dominican
    May 9, 2014

    It is sad to see that it is our prime Minister who is spearheading all these attacks on women. That just shows it’s a pack of wolves we have running our country. And what’s worse is the longer these guys stay in power the more troubling and difficult things get.Do the right thing, Vote them out.

  62. real possie
    May 9, 2014

    Marian you cleverly missed the only lady that was denigrated lately that was the speaker of the house where were you then? politics is always a nasty trade like you said I did not hear anyone got denigrated at the labor party convention all the man said was someone like cow meat compare to the things Mamo went through that is nothing I come from a mother and if anyone of them crossed the line I would be the 1st to say they crossed the line, my only thing I will ask again where were you when the speaker was called all kind of names? we tend to be selective in our views.

    • Shaka Zulu
      May 9, 2014

      Are we not all selective. If it is bad it is bad whether is Alix or monell. Why did you not speak up about it objectively if Alix was denegraded. What would you prefer she stay silent. She choose to use the recent rally to make a point. If it is valid then we should all agree to stop it whether DLP, UWP, or DFP.

    • Anonymous
      May 9, 2014

      Alix Boyd Knight described herself in her own words while on the political platform remember that when all you trying to bring her into the equation.

  63. ian
    May 9, 2014

    do the right, be firm be fair I meant to say.

  64. ian
    May 9, 2014

    you are right to publish this letter. lets hope your voice will spread to every corner of the island that those who have ears to hear and eye to read will join you in your fight against discrimination. again, live our national anthem said,” come be forward sons and daughters, do the fight be firm be fair.” please correct me with this line if I wrote it incorrectly. but I’m trusting my point was clearly understood.

  65. PoKeSa
    May 9, 2014

    A precedent has been set, in the case against the calypsonian, for slandering. Isn’t this the same as slandering or character bashing’

  66. Let Reason prevail
    May 9, 2014

    Well said Ms. Jno Finn. The women groups must speak out as well as the men: CARIMAN & DACAMEN. A pox on the houses of those ‘gentle?men’ politicians who abuse and disrespect ladies. What example are you showing your wives, children and the youth today?
    No wonder women do not want to enter the political arena. The politicians are well aware that it is wrong, wrong, wrong. The lady politicians should have given whoever the speakers were a couple ‘Kallots’ and shut them up. The crowd must show that they do NOT appreciate such language and bad behaviour. When will this mepuis end? We are fedup with the ancient malcassay behaviour. This is 2014people! Grow up! Let’s hope the other party shows some standards and not respond accordingly.

  67. ocra
    May 9, 2014

    Oh Regi, you not looking respectable nur, you cannot smile nor hold your head high. You try to bring down Monelle, but instead it backfired, you just raised her head higher, she is not ashamed to be a nurturing mother, aunty, nenen and sister to her children, family, friends, community and constituents. Still She Rise. Still She Rise. A good name is far better than riches Regi

  68. RED 2 BLUE
    May 9, 2014

    comments anyone??

  69. Anonymous
    May 9, 2014

    Could not have said it better myself

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