THE EDITOR, Sir:
ALL THE carnival revellers and promoters would have been pleased with the recent 'success' of Jamaica Carnival 2005. By all indications this event seems to be getting bigger and is a source of income for the country and individuals, especially on the last day.
While all are entitled to enjoy themselves in whatever way they see fit, as long as it is legal and does not infringe on another person's rights, it should be done responsibly. The recent advertisements of 'Bring di condom come' is scandalous at the least. This is even more pronounced when it is sponsored by a national organisation. The flavour of the ad is suggesting that 'free sex' is either being promoted with carnival or there is an admission that it is prevalent. This speaks against the moral fabric of our society and when an ad like this is run, then how can we be hypocritical enough to question what causes the decay in the morality of the society?
If the intent of the ad is to promote safe sex, then it should be positioned in that way and not suggest that it is okay to indulge as long as you bring a condom. It is crucial that those with the authority to produce such ads for public display are responsible enough to ensure that the correct message is portrayed, especially as children and young adults are drawn to the carnival festivities.
Personally I would be ashamed to be associated with such a production and hope that for the sake of clarity the responsible organisation will apologise to the public.
I am, etc.,
DENNIS CHUNG
dra_chung@hotmail.com
Kingston 8
Via Go-Jamaica
