As 2024 marks the 30th year of the International Year of the Family, the Community Affairs Division within the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting and partners, will observe International Day of Families using the theme for Global Family Day 2024, ‘Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families.’ The United Nations 2024 theme is ‘Families and Climate Change.’
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Ministry on Monday, May 13, 2024 by the Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting the Hon. Myles LaRoda.
He said the government agrees with the United Nations warning that without drastic action, adaptation, and mitigation — the impacts of climate change will become increasingly difficult and costly.
Minister LaRoda said, “We also believe that healthy, wholesome, self-sufficient families are crucial to our nation’s social and economic growth and development; and climate action.”
He explained that in this regard, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, the Ministry will host a one-day forum, and a live prime-time production entitled, “The Heartbeat” in observance of International Day of Families.
The forum will take place at the National Training Agency from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be expert presenters speaking on How Climate Change Impacts Families, Tips to Strengthen Family Relations, The Impact of Violence on the Mental Health of Families, and Strategies for Strengthening Families with Disabilities.
A number of non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations and government agencies will share with the public the nature of their organizations and the services they offer.
Minister LaRoda explained that attendees will have an opportunity to speak with the experts face-to-face and gather information on how to strengthen their families and communities. This is a free event open to all.
He also said the program titled “The Heartbeat” is the first of a series of shows produced by the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting.
“Renowned journalist Clint Watson, will host the show that will provide a platform for victims of abuse to share their stories and for experts from the public, private and civil society sectors to offer their insights and guidance.”
The program will be launched from SuperClubs Breezes on ZNS TV 13 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the evening of May 15th in front of a live studio audience.
Minister LaRoda said, “Survivors and experts will talk about what went wrong with our families and what we can do to strengthen our families and communities. The Hon. Wayne Munroe and I will give the final word on how we move forward to build stronger families and communities. Our aim is to empower and restore hope.”
He said, “Recent tragic events in our nation have underscored the urgent need for a return to the core values of love, kindness and compassion that have long been the hallmarks of our society.”
The Minister added, “From the senseless loss of life in a nightclub shooting, to the disturbing incidents of domestic violence and rising divorce rates, it is clear that we must take decisive action to address the issues that threaten the stability and well-being of our families.”
Also attending the press conference were: Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Phaedra Rahming-Turnquest; Acting Director, Department of Social Services, Charlamae Fernander; and Chief Probation Officer, Department of Social Services, Lisa Bowleg.
By: LLONELLA GILBERT/Bahamas Information Services
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