I am writing this letter in response to a previous letter entitled "Political Battered Wife Syndrome." The letter is disconcerting to say the least. In a country that has considerable Domestic Violence it disgusts me to see a citizen using Battered Woman Syndrome as a metaphor for Trinidad's current political arena. I am sure that (the letter writer) could have found another metaphor for the new political party.
Domestic Violence is a serious issue and while those who are elected to government should be considered carefully, one should have a little more care with how one chooses one's words. Battered Woman Syndrome should not be used in such a cavalier and insignificant tone. People in such predicaments who experience this condition are living in a cycle that they themselves are unable to fully understand.
Furthermore, Editor, while freedom of speech is necessary, this goes beyond freedom into words that are offensive and demeaning. Domestic Violence is a problem in Trinidad and Tobago as well as across the world. Battered Woman Syndrome as well as Battered People Syndrome while highly debated is an effective tool for helping many people convict those who are carrying out acts of domestic violence. Never should it be utilised in jest, or as a comparison for the Politics of Trinidad.
Should a letter such as this come to your attention one should offer a trigger warning before it is published. Domestic violence is a very sensitive issue.
Christina-Claire Georges,
Cascade.