Eighteen Authorised Officers have been formally designated, and 14 tribunal members sworn in, to enforce Jamaica’s Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act, 2021, marking a significant step forward in Jamaica’s commitment to gender justice.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on July 17 at the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in Kingston. Portfolio Minister Olivia Grange described the event as “far from a mere formality,” emphasizing its importance in ensuring the Act is upheld nationwide.
“These appointments are not ceremonial — they are practical, necessary, and extremely important,” Minister Grange said. “This represents another great stride in our journey as a nation towards a fairer and safer Jamaica for all.”
The tribunal members were carefully chosen for their expertise in law, labour, gender, human rights, academia, and landlord-tenant relations. Their role is to hear and adjudicate sexual harassment cases under the Act, which protects individuals in workplaces, educational institutions, and residential settings.
Minister Grange reminded the tribunal of their responsibility: “You’re obliged to demonstrate fairness, compassion, and the ability to deal with deeply personal, sensitive matters with dignity and balance. Your role is to listen carefully, judge fairly, and ensure that both complainants and respondents receive justice.”
The designated Authorised Officers, trained by the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Faculty of Criminal Investigation, will serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking redress. They will inform complainants of their rights and ensure no one is discouraged from coming forward.
“You must ensure the law is not just known but properly utilised,” the Minister urged. “Your job is to listen without judgement and to make sure that not even one complainant is turned away.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, also spoke, highlighting that the law is about respect and protecting people from unwanted advances. She noted that while the legislation is gender-neutral, women are disproportionately affected and therefore prioritized in discourse.
Minister Grange described the occasion as “a historic moment for the gender architecture in Jamaica,” declaring, “We’re turning laws into real protection. We are making sure that there is justice for everyone.”
