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1. What is Jamaicans for Justice ?

Jamaicans for Justice is a not-for-profit, non-partisan, non-violent volunteer citizens' rights group which advocates for fundamental change in Jamaica so that justice will be realised by its citizens in all spheres of national life-the judicial, economic, social and political systems in order to improve the present and future life of all Jamaican citizens.

2. What is our vision ?

The vision of Jamaicans for Justice is for a Jamaica where the rights of all are assured, where there is equal opportunity for citizens to realise their potential and enjoy a sense of well-being and where our culture is enhanced and respect shared. The mission and vision of JFJ are indebted to be applied in all members' lives as much as being ideals for the society at large.

3. How to become a member

Any person who wishes to become a member of Jamaicans for Justice is required to:

a) fill out an application form (available from the Secretariat or click here )
b) pay an annual membership fee of Ja$50.00, and,
c) attend an orientation session (or complete an orientation package.)

4. Categories of Membership

a) Full Members-Persons residing in Jamaica

b) International Associate Members-Persons who do not reside in Jamaica and who do not have a local JFJ Chapter may become associate members through on-line registration or sending a completed application form to the Secretariat by mail or facsimile. International members must acknowledge receipt of an orientation package.

5. Membership Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of all members of Jamaicans for Justice to:

6. Rights of Members

All paid-up members of Jamaicans for Justice, of good standing, have the following rights:

7. Membership Participation

Members are encouraged to participate in the activities of Jamaicans for Justice by joining or supporting committees, attending forums, lobbying and campaigning, participating in demonstrations and protests, writing letters and attending regular meetings. Members can be as active, or inactive, as is convenient to them.

8. JFJ Committees

Members are invited to join any of the following committees:

Access to confidential or sensitive information by a Committee or a Member of a Committee can be attained through a request to the Board of Directors. The Board reserves the right to deny any request for information with an explanation. A Director must sit on each Committee to facilitate interaction between the Board of Directors and the Committee.

9. Lobbying and Campaigning

JFJ's main approach to addressing issues is through lobbying and carrying out various types of non-violent public campaigns. Members are encouraged to participate in and support these activities. Strength of numbers, and the thoroughness with which JFJ researches and presents its views are how the group is assured of making a positive impact.

10.Meetings/Forums

Weekly and Committee meetings enable members to contribute to discussions. Members can also suggest networking opportunities and speakers on topical issues. Members are encouraged to attend forums being put on by JFJ.

11. Duties of Directors

A Board of Directors of not less then nine and not more than twelve individuals manages the affairs of the organisation. The Directors appoint one of their number to serve as Chairperson until the term of service expires. The Directors may delegate any of their responsibilities or duties to Committees consisting of as many members as may be thought necessary. The Board of Directors has the overall responsibility to provide guidance and strategic focus to the body of members, and to establish operating systems and procedures.

12. Demonstrations / Protests

JFJ organises protests and demonstrations to expose issues to the public and create change. Demonstrations need to be conducted in an orderly manner with the approval of the Directorship. Weapons of any kind should not be carried when acting on behalf of the organisation. Demonstrations will be conducted at all times with the framework of the Law.

13. Statements to the Press

No statement to the Press purporting to come from Jamaicans for Justice can be issued without the sanction of the Chairperson of the Communication and Education Committee or at least two Directors. If the Press requests a response from the general membership on an issue, an appropriate response may be given, such as, "Although I am a member of JFJ the following is my own personal opinion and I do not speak on behalf of the general membership of JFJ."

14. Code of Conduct

Members will have to abide by Jamaicans for Justice Code of Conduct. Members will be considered in serious breach of the Code of Conduct if they do the following, including but not limited to:

15. Complaints Procedure

Where there is any indication of a serious breach of the principles, values and guidelines for membership by a member, such behaviour should be reported to the Directors of Jamaicans for Justice. The Directors shall investigate all complaints and initiate a review based on due process to make a final determination on the matter. Complaints should be made to the Board in writing before being aired at general meetings of JFJ, which are open to the public.

16.Donations/Fundraising/Sponsorship

Jamaicans for Justice obtains most of its money from donations and fundraising activities. Members are encouraged to assist the JFJ in fundraising and to make such donations to the group as are possible and affordable. JFJ accepts sponsorship of its programs and activities from the Private Sector and from philanthropic organisations locally and internationally. Jamaicans for Justice does not accept State funding or contributions from political parties.

17. Membership Communication

Members are encouraged to make suggestions orally at weekly meetings or through the suggestions box, e-mail, to committees or to the Secretariat.

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