The African proverb “It takes a village” to raise a child and protect its children is often applied to solving crimes. However, this principle is not widely accepted. A community’s protection of itself can become a deterrent to its own safety.
A recent tragedy in our village highlights the issue. Two young lives were lost, and several others were wounded in an intentional act of violence. The reluctance to speak up against such crimes can be disheartening, but it’s also understandable due to concerns for personal safety.
Law enforcement often says “Help me help you,” but this plea is frequently met with silence from the community. The fear of retaliation or risk to one’s life can lead to a code of silence that becomes as big a threat as the actual crime. Witnessing such atrocities can be traumatic, and the consequences for those who speak out are severe.
The lack of trust in the justice system means many crimes go unreported, and even when cooperation between law enforcement and the community is strong, murderers often don’t receive full accountability or face long enough sentences. The risk of future retribution from victims’ families or others impacted by the perpetrator’s actions must be considered.
It’s essential to respect those who speak up for the community’s safety while acknowledging the limitations of law enforcement without community support. As we move forward, it’s crucial to recognize that sometimes, silence can be just as damaging as inaction.
Source: https://www.shawlocal.com/daily-journal/2025/01/12/jackson-why-help-me-help-you-often-goes-unanswered