The Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, along with its social partners such as the National Council on Older Persons, will continue to advocate on behalf of the nation’s older persons, while simultaneously ensuring that they are safe, protected, and valued.
Addressing the annual Church Service held Thursday (October 16) as part of the activities commemorating October as Older Persons Month in The Bahamas, Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles LaRoda, said his ministry, in conjunction with the NCOP, will continue to stand as steadfast advocates for the rights of the elderly in-country.
“They are the glue that holds our families, our churches, and our communities together. Their prayers still cover us; their wisdom still guides us. They are our precious pearls, our living treasures, and the foundation upon which we continue to build.
“Our older persons are entitled to a life marked by dignity and respect — one that is free from abuse, neglect, or disregard. And as advocates, we will continue to use every platform available — through policy, through practice, and through public engagement — to ensure that they are safe, protected, and valued.”
Minister LaRoda said great responsibility comes with such an acknowledgment.
“We must all do our part to ensure that our pillars — our elders — live with dignity, respect, and love. It is not enough to recognize their worth; we must also reflect it in how we treat them every day.”
Minister LaRoda said true advocacy is to acknowledge, defend, value, offer care to, communicate with, and empower Older Persons.
“As we celebrate this Older Persons Month, let us remember that advocacy is not just a responsibility — it is a ministry of compassion. It is an act of love, gratitude, and reverence for those whose sacrifices have shaped our journey.
“They are the ones who paid our way through school, who kept our children on weekends, who stood in the gap when life demanded strength we did not have. They poured into us — and now it is our turn to pour back into them.
“Take a moment, if you will, to reflect. Think of that grandmother or grandfather, that mother, aunt, or uncle who helped shape your life. Whether they are here with us today or have gone on before, their prayers, wisdom, and unwavering love continue to guide our steps. So, I invite each of you to join us in this ongoing effort — to stand with us, to speak up, and to act — so that every older person in this country feels respected, cherished, and protected.”
Held at Bible Truth Ministries, the service was a collaborative effort between the ministry, its Department of Social Services (through the Senior Citizens Division), and the National Council on Older Persons, and showcased the talents of Older Persons from across sectors, all in an effort to highlight the contributions older persons have made, and continue to make to society.
The Social Services Minister commended those establishments and organizations that have made intentional efforts to prioritize service and accessibility for the country’s older persons.
“To those who have created priority lines, ramps, or spaces of comfort, we say thank you. Your actions speak volumes. And to those who have not yet done so, I urge you — take that step. Let us build a nation where kindness, patience, and consideration are not the exception, but the standard in how we serve others.
“Beyond policies and programs, this is also a call to the village — to families, neighbors, and communities of faith — to keep showing up for our elders. Whether it’s offering a ride, sharing a meal, lending an ear, or simply checking in, these simple gestures remind our pillars that they are seen, valued, and loved.”
The post LaRoda renders call to the village — to families, neighbors, and communities of faith — “to keep showing up for our elders” appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.
