‘Dad’ Miniseries to Dispel ‘Wutliss’ Father Stereotypes

The Bureau of Gender Affairs, in partnership with Men of God Against Violence and Abuse (MoGAVA), AIDS Healthcare Foundation and the Management Institute for National Development, have launched a new miniseries titled ‘Amazing Dads’.

The series aims to promote positive stories about fathers in Jamaica and mobilise men to be productive members of society.

Gender Minister Olivia Grange, who has portfolio responsibility for the bureau, said she readily endorsed the miniseries.

“(It) is a well-needed platform to highlight the positive roles of men, notably, our Jamaican fathers. There are many amazing stories of fathers who have gone above the call of duty for their children and their family’s well-being, despite challenging circumstances,” she said.

Grange said she is hopeful that positive messages about Jamaican fathers will be broadcast so that other persons who need motivation to become positive, male role models will be inspired.

“These stories are not always highlighted to remind us of how important fathers are, and that good fathers do exist,” she said.

President and founder of MoGAVA Reverend Jayson Downer said the miniseries is a public education programme that seeks to highlight men and their positive role as parents in the Jamaican society.

“The programme … aims to document the importance of fathering, dispel the cultural myth that fathers are ‘wutliss’ and, perhaps, most importantly, demonstrate how Jamaican fathers can be actively involved in the growth and development of their child/children amid challenges”.

“Amazing Dads also aims to reiterate the positive roles that men play in society, being mentors and guiding both younger males and other fathers. Fathers of exemplary character will be interviewed to share the roles they played in their child/children’s lives and the influence it has on their child/children’s behaviour,” he added.