The Journey to Justice: How JADS Works
When a member of the community faces discrimination, the emotional and psychological toll can be overwhelming. JADS was designed to transform that experience from one of victimization into one of active redress. By documenting cases of harassment, verbal abuse, and unfair treatment, the system helps individuals reclaim dignity through a structured and confidential process.
Every journey begins with a report. Whether it involves employment discrimination, a breach of medical confidentiality, or physical violence, case managers collect detailed accounts to build a foundation for legal or social action.
JADS does not operate in isolation. Once a case is documented, it is referred to professional redress partners, including organizations such as Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), to determine the most effective path toward resolution.
Redress takes many forms. It may involve a formal apology, a cease and desist letter, or in more serious cases, police action and monetary compensation. Each closed case represents progress toward stronger human rights protections in Jamaica.
Justice in Action: Our Impact
The impact of JADS is felt across the island. In 2024, the system collected nearly 90 complaint reports, reflecting ongoing challenges in both public and private sector spaces. Most cases involved harassment and verbal abuse, which continue to account for the highest proportion of reported violations.
Through counseling for complainants and targeted training for offenders, JADS addresses the root causes of stigma. Case management efforts lead to the closure of dozens of cases annually, while complex violations such as forced eviction or physical violence receive appropriate legal follow-up.
The Future of the Redress System
JN+ remains committed to modernizing JADS to make justice more accessible. The system is transitioning from paper-based documentation to a secure online platform that will function as a centralized case repository, improving coordination with partners and reducing manual data handling.
Visibility of JADS is also being expanded through interactive content and community-led awareness initiatives. The goal is to ensure that every person living with HIV in Jamaica knows that when rights are threatened, JADS is present to ensure they are heard, protected, and supported.