The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) commends the Government of Jamaica on the passing of the long-awaited legislation aimed at preventing sexual harassment. The bill was passed in the Lower House in July and then in the Upper House on October 1st. 

The Act outlines the conditions for dealing with sexual harassment in places of safety, medical and psychiatric and correctional institutions, schools, and the workplace. Additionally, this legislation addresses concerns about sexual harassment arising in landlord and tenant relations and other institutions. 

In her presentation to the Senate on Friday, Leader of Government Business and Minster of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith reiterated that ‘the Bill does not intend to remove flirtation, or prevent the starting of relationships, it just really requires people to respect the concept that someone might not want your advance.’ 

The JCC applauds this historic milestone to provide protection to victims of sexual harassment and looks forward to the conclusion of the legal process and the coming into effect of this long awaited and much needed law; however, the importance of public education and sensitization cannot be overemphasized.