Dear Editor,
I take this opportunity to express in the strongest terms possible on behalf of the members of my foundation and on behalf of the many, many people, both male and female who have expressed their horror and disgust after taking note of the front page photo of a woman lying on the road after she has allegedly been pushed out of a moving car by her alleged assailant.
Our community has been through a lot post Hurricane Irma. It’s expected that an increase of tensions at homes and at business places would occur, after experiencing such a traumatic natural disaster. It is also proven that a peak occurs in relational violence during holiday seasons, and weekends.
A combination of being traumatized, losing one’s home, losing your job, and feeling a sense of hopelessness can put some people on edge that can ultimately lead to a despicable act of violence. There is simply no excuse to resort to such criminal behavior.
A structural support plan is needed to have more mental health professionals available for those who requires such support. Our Mental Health Foundation requires more support as well. Professionals who evaluate traumatic behavior and who provide much needed counsel to children as well as adults. No matter their background or standing in our society.
We are aware that counseling support was provided and discussed by a team of mental health professionals post hurricane Irma. However, more structural funding is needed to temporarily recruit more of such professionals, not in the least due to the small number of hard working professionals in this field who are available and provide their much-needed expertise around the clock. They too deserve some rest.
Peridot Foundation trusts that our law enforcement and judicial authorities will seriously investigate this unfortunate incident and do whatever is legally required to bring justice to the alleged victim. At the end of the day both parties will need counsel and support, each based on their respective horrific act and experience.
In the spirit of the Holiday season, we wish u much Peace and patience towards our fellow citizens.
Gracita R. Arrindell,
Founder of Peridot Foundation
