The use of Obscene Language
It is disturbing that in our society today the standard, customs, norms and values are so vastly declining that the use of obscenities has become commonplace or platitude. It is like a trait or ordinary expression and has become prevalent and predominant in everyday conversation. Obscenities are today commonly used in many different contexts and circumstances and time and place by persons of all strata, status and age which indicate a significant decline in our social etiquette and morals.
The use of these words may once cause affront and alarm, but the limits to what words may be used in conversation without social stigma and disgrace have been greatly expanded. Obscene language is used predominantly with gross or blatant disregard for the discomfort, distress, upset, and annoyance it may cause to others or even the criticism and rebuke the speaker or user may receive.
The indecent, repulsive, lewd, depraved, abominable, immodest or disgusting nature in which these words are used create grave annoyance to many. Not only is the use of obscene language, which has bombarded our society, a break down in our norms, customs, and values but it is also an offence for which persons can be arrested and face criminal prosecution.
The 1994 Revised Laws Of Grenada, Chapter 1 Volume 1 Section 133 B states “Whoever makes use of any threatening, abusive, insulting, obscene, or profane Language, or Sings any insulting or offensive song or ballad, to the annoyance of any person in any place; shall be liable to imprisonment for three months, or to a fine of one thousand dollars, or to both.
The Royal Grenada Police Force in its endeavour to protect and serve all citizens and foster peace, prosperity and harmony in our society and by so doing reduce crime, reduce fear of crime and improve community safety will enforce the law and bring perpetrators of the law to justice in an effort to reduce the habitual use of obscenities.
The Royal Grenada Police Force takes this opportunity to inform and educate the public of the laws bearing in mind that ‘ignorance of the law’ is inexcusable/no excuse we urge persons to take responsibility for their actions, practice self-respect, self-discipline and diplomacy. The use of obscene language which is now being used as if conventional is annoying to persons, a breakdown in morals and a breach of the law; it is inappropriate, disrespectful and lacking in character and purpose and serves no basis in conversation.
The conception or apprehension that the use of these obscene language create fear or approbate result is totally unrealistic and unfounded, these epithets or utterances are offensive to modesty and decency. Obscene Language is prohibited regardless where it is used or who it annoys. Whether it invades the privacy of the home, or is used in the street, school, vehicle or elsewhere due consideration should be given to one’s choice of words, the feeling or annoyance it causes to others and most importantly the fact that it is a breach of the law of the land.