According to Dina Parham,(daughter in law of Nora Parham) there had been reports that Nora was pregnant when she had been incarcerated for Trapp’s death. Our newspaper had also received verbal reports that Nora had been pregnant when she was hanged. Dina recalls that right before the hanging, Nora was taken to the hospital.
“Maybe they took her to have the baby,” she wondered, questioning where that baby would be, if Nora had had one – whether that child is alive or dead.
Dina Parham says that her husband is still not satisfied with the outcome of the court case, because even if it were true that Nora had killed Ketchell Trapp, it is his view that the circumstances of the case had not been fairly considered, because it is their view that the killing would have happened under provocation.
Parham said that they have resurrected investigations of the incident and hope to have Nora vindicated if indeed she was innocent of the charges against her.
Reference
Ramos, A. (2009). Nora Parham’s relatives want more answers. Amandala, Retrieved October
16, 2009 at http://www.amandala.com.bz/index.php?id=9043
If Nora Parham were living in today's time period, would her fate have been the same?
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Monday, October 19, 2009
SOST 304 Social Studies for Primary Teachers POST # 2
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Nora Parham case was one of tragedy and injustice. First injustice was being married to an abusive husband. It seems that she was not an independent woman: she depended on him for daily life; the things women do for home and family. She then believing it would work continued in this relationship, enduring the psychological, emotional and physical abuse from this man.
ReplyDeleteAlthough evidence clearly states that this man lit himself on fire. Nora was blamed for this vengeful crime. She had poor representation amidst a political arena of one-sided men jurors and police officers. A governor who wanted to see the case tried in the swiftest manner, as to make an example of this woman; in the same process destroying a woman and her family without a clear understanding of Nora's history of abuse.
Today it would be a different story. I believe the rights of a woman would have made a significant difference in the way the case was tried and the way evidence would have been collected. I am sure that no judge would have overlooked the testimonies of those who saw the physical abuse of Nora Parham. I am sure that a psychiatrist would have been brought in to analyze the trauma on the children and Nora. Forensic labs would have proven that the built of butane and metane gas in the pit latrine ignited when the cigarette was lit and as a result Trapp lit himself on fire. This story is one of tragedy and injustice. The heart breaking part for me is that the family is still going through this tragedy, there needs to be closure.
It's time for the justice system to say they were wrong!!!
Based on the material read, my view on Nora Parham is a woman who had gotten enough of the life style she was with Mr. Trapp. Despite the numerous attempts to express her concerns and well-being of the safety of her life and that of her children's to the authorities and others, it all fell on deaf ears. Mr.Trapp had made life for Ms. Parham a living hell, so to speak, with his controlling attitude and abusive ways. Wanting to live an abusive-free life with the basic needs to maintain a home and family doesn't really show a behaviour of being voilently jealous.They way I see it, everyone has a breaking point or like the saying goes,"This was the straw that broke the camel's back!". Unfortunately, it happened in a very sevre manner caused by anger-flared between the two parties, provocation-beating from Mr. Trapp just before the incident and carelessness on Mr. trapp's part. So jealously in my opinion, doesn't play a major factor in this.
ReplyDeleteNatalie,
ReplyDeleteyou state that " am sure that a psychiatrist would have been brought in to analyze the trauma on the children and Nora" (Par. 3). I am trying to figure out how this senario would have decided the fate of Nora if she was living in today. Can you explain?
Christine,
ReplyDeleteI m not sure you focus on the question:If Nora Parham were living in today's time period, would her fate have been the same? Review
Mr. Tucker,
ReplyDeleteA psychiatrist would have made the difference, in determining the effects of Trapp continual abuse on the children and Nora. This situation was not a first time incident; surely this was repeated for an extended period of time: she had 4 children. Even if Nora had intention to harm Trapp it would have been provoked. A psychiatrist would have been able to testify concerning the emotional state of Nora and the children leading up to this event and help to prove Nora's case as provocation.
Mr. Tucker,
ReplyDeleteOur justice system has change considerable since that time(1963). The testimony of key witness- psychiatrist would be permitted today.
If Miss. Nora Parham would still be alive, her sentence would be different. In our days, we have different organizations that would have had stepped in to give her bought a fair trial and a different sentence. First of all, we could talk about Human rights; they would have been the number one on her side, because they are the ones fighting against Capital Punishment, so the legal process would change, more investigation would have been done and more witnesses would have been called, so that they could have more evidences against or in favor. The other organization which would have had stepped in would have been the Women’s Rights, because they are in the fight against domestic violence.
ReplyDeleteWhen we speak about a pregnant lady, we need to remember that there are laws against abortion which is taking a life and we should not forget the children’s right.
Her fate would also be a bit different, because the Ombudsman would have had, and is hereby addressing the Government of Belize officers on the topic of abuse.
I think that if Nora Parham were living in today’s time period her fate would have been much different. I think that she would have had a fair trial. We have organizations like “Women’s Issue Network” to help fight her case. I strongly believe that Nora was wrongfully judged because Mr. Trapp was a police officer.
ReplyDeleteNora was victimized twice both by Trapp and the system, because nobody on the jury had the “balls”. If it was a mix jury including both men and women it would have been different.
Ms. Velda
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on the note that we she would have been give a fair trial and more witnesses would have been called. More organizations to help her fight her case.
Would Nora Parham have had the same fate in
ReplyDeletetoday’s time period?
My answer to this is “Absolutely not” We are now protected with a vast amount of rights, especially Human rights which states that we all have a right to life. She would undoubtedly not be hung, and she would have had the right to a fair trial by jury. In Nora Parham’s case, two lives were taken – Nora and her unborn child. This clearly states that her rights as a human being and as a woman was hideously violated.
Secondly, Chapter 4, section 6 of The Belize Constitution Act Revised Edition, 2000 states – “Every person who is charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed to be innocent until he is proved or has pleaded guilty.” If the incident with Nora Parham had taken place in this present time period, then she would have been protected by this law. She would have been able to appoint a lawyer to fight her case and with proper investigation, would have been acquitted of the charge of Murder or would have spent some years in prison, but not hung.
Comments to Velda Jesse.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you. We are now protected by so many laws especially Human Rights. If that particular incident had happened in this time period, then Nora Parham would have been given a fair trial with the aid of a lawyer, and in my opinion would have been acquitted of all charges; especially if they look on the fact that she was a victim of constant abuse. I further read that she made reports to police about her abuse but nothing was done about it; as a result, she took justice in her own hands, and personally, I see nothing wrong with that especially if the law enforcers aren’t doing anything to assist.
If I was in the shoe of Ms. Sandra Trapp, I would have probably done the same thing just to get justice on my father’s death. I think that she was bias by saying that Mrs. Parham was violently jealous. She did not live with them so I would say that she could see what Mr. Trapp had done the maybe provoke Mrs. Parham to send her into the rage the maybe cause his death. So no I do not believe that she was a jealous person.
ReplyDeleteBase on the evidence that was give in court I would have vote for not guilty of nothing if I was one of the jury on the case. Base on her testimony she did lit the man on fire she threw gas on him that was all and no one could have say that they saw her did it.
Natalie said
ReplyDeleteI definately think that if Nora Parham was living in today's time period that things would have been different. Nora would have had the opportunity to a little fairer trial due to the fact that the medias would have help to publicize the injustice that was taken of her and her children. Back in 1963 it was proven that many people were on her sidebut they were controlled by higher heads and were not able to do anything about the situation. Today the situatuion would have been different because the public would not have only signed the petition but they would have been on every talk show to make sure their voices were heard. I also believe that today women have a little more say and due to the growth in domestic violence a lot of organization has been formed that would have protected Nora Parham from the ill treatement she received. I also believe that due to the lacjk of eye witness, factual evidence and tremendous support that she received; bothe the jurors and the judge would have to give her a lesser charge or find her not guilty.
Natalie,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you the outcry would have spark interest from all the peace keeping, human rights organization in the world. Death penalty would not have been an option today.
Nora Parham fate would have definitely been different because she would not have received the death penalty, to make matters worse if she was pregnant. With all the human and women rights movement in this day and age, she would be alive. Women rights would have probably hire a lawyer to show that she was a victim of abuse and violence and that she was probably suffering from Post Partum Syndrome. Her defense would have been that she was pushed over the edge and it was self defense. I also believe that if she had a jury of her peers she would have stand a chance of walking. If she was found guilty, she would have probably gotten 25years and would have been able to give birth and be eligible for parole after a number of years. In today’s time period and with support from the women rights movement her fate would have been different.
ReplyDeleteLorna said:
ReplyDeleteIt is beyond a shadow of a doubt that Nora Parham would be still alive and free in today's society as opposed to back then. Internationally, the world has been sensitized of the plight of abused women which has led to various radical and very much overdue changes in legislation and law both locally and internationally. Whereas today the word abuse is not only refer to as physical abuse but has been expanded to incorporate mental, emotional and in rare cases religious and societal abuse. Therefore today in no democratic country nor under any law that exists there in, would Nora Parham under the evidence presented would have been found guilty of such a crime much less have been sentenced to death. As is today the crown which still represents the Queen (head of state)if challenged by the offsprings of Nora Parham undoubtedly compensatory benefits would have to be paid today for the crown killing of a innocent woman and mother. The question of whether Nora Parham was pregnant at the time of execution further compounds the already complicated and unjust nature, judgement and manner including the extremely prejudicial and misleading directive of the judge at that time to the jury which in today society would be thrown out in any appeal based on not the evidence or the presumption of innocence until proven guilty but on the asumption of the degree of guilt. In no way nor under no circumstances what so ever would Nora Parham be found guilty. The questions of whether her unborn innocent child was also sentened to death by the crown at that time would be irrelevant as the testimony and facts to the case presented in this era would have clearly set her free from all charges. Decades ago Adolf Hitler killed hundred and thousands of Jews,at that time under his rule it was considered legal. Today, many of his soldiers and generals are being tried and convicted and sentenced to life in prison and death base on the grusome immoral and now illegal actions known today as war crimes in our present society. Nora Parham would have been set free and viewed as the victim that she was today. Many years ago in British Honduras (now known as Belize) during the Nora Parham era it was the belief then due to ignorance (lack of knowledge and education)that if a child "Mole drop" it was the norm to turn that child upside down and hit the child continously hard on the bottom of their feet untill mole was back in place in the fore front of their head, that was considered medical magic. Today it is universaly acepted as medical rubbish and is in no doubt responsible for the many retardation in children that exist at that time. Nora Parham, for the record even after the belated pardon and even after the decades of decaying flesh and bones must be set free.
Lorna said:
ReplyDeleteComments to Sherlett:
Sherlett assessment that Nora parham would not suffered the same fate in today's time period base on her reasoning"that we are now protected with a vast amount of rights,especially human rights which state that we all have a right to life." Cannot hold water base on the fact that under our present lost individuals convicted of murder: although not been implimented, are still if found guilty been sentence to death. This fact in no way affects or is thawarted by an individual rights as a human being. Sherlett quotation of the laws chapter 4 section 6 of the Belize constitution act revised edition 2000 which deals with the asumption of innocence untill proven guilty is never the less extremely important and aplicable in this matter. However,in the court of public opinion, influences of the media, tampering of vital evidence and the omission or alteration of important statements coupled with the influences of powerful people in powerful places. One can only speculate that even with the appointment of a lawyer and the carrying out of a so- called proper investigation would have resulted in Norah Parham acquittal of murdered. No doubt Sherlett's cotenplated the reality of files been missing, of tampering of evidences, of policemen suddenly suffering from amesia, all incidents and much more which has plague today's justice system why she has injected in her commentry that Nora if not acquited would "have spend some years in prison, but not hung". Therefore I am convinced that Sherlett initial remarks to the question "my answer to this is abosouletely not" is diametrically opposed to her closing remarks which reflects doubt "or would have spend some years in prison". That doubt in Sherlett's commentry is as a result of what I feel is her mistrust of today's system of justice. Nora was hung decades ago and in realizing the antiquated laws which exist then that resulted in her hunging it is astonishing to see that in this era of information education and technological advances there is still a doubt in mind of Sherlett and others tht Norah Parham would not have been sent home free but instead may have still spent some time in prison. Have we truly advance?
Yes, Nora’s fate would have been different. Domestic violence has become a plague in Belize. It is a chronic problem that could be compared to "AIDS. Cases about women being abuse are on the rise. These women come from all walks of life, young and old and the only thing they have in common is that fact that they are being abuse.
ReplyDeleteMaybe Nora was raised in a dysfunctional home or maybe she had nowhere to go. Alcohol was involved but is definitely no excuse. She was a victim of domestic abuse. Worst of all, there was more than just domestic abuse in the home. There was child abuse as well.
Some might ask “Why didn't Nora leave?” there may be plenty of reasons and justifications on her part. At that time, if she was more aware of options, more aware that her excuses were simply that and at the bottom of it all was her lack of confidence and self esteem maybe she might still be alive today. She was dealt a low blow by “men” were trying to send a message to other women.
I believed she would have been acquitted because there was no witness, no real evidence that she lit on fire. Women now have rights and have the support of women and even men to help them deal with domestic issues.
There are many reasons as to why the outcome of Norah Parham's case would definitely be different today . Some issues like our constitution- the right of a fair trial, the eyewitness's report, Human rights, self-defense in the case of domestic violence among others were very important but I choose to focus on the fact that we live in a modern and technologically advance time. It was stated in the article that Norah had indeed received a pardon from the queen but because of the time wasted to transport mail via ship and her unfair swift trial the pardon was received late. Otherwise with using the technology of this time and day, a quick phone call, fax or e-mail could have resulted in Norah being spared that great injustice and the children not losing both parents.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with Renee Usher and her comment that the women rights movement would have done all they could to help her. She was pregnant and as humanitarians it just seem aberrant to hang pregnant woman.
Martha Sacasa
ReplyDeleteI don't believe that Nora Parham was violently jealous. Nowhere in the article said that she was jealous of her husband. I think that it was Mr. Trapp that was jealous coming home and saying that two of the children weren't his. How can Nora be jealous of a man that was always abusing her.
Ms Parham was not fairly judge, they were no female jury in the court at the time. Ms Parham didn't have a fair trial. If I was part of the jury given the evidence I would have sentence Ms. Parham on community service. The evidence according to the article state that Ms. Nora complained to different people and police officer about her abusive husband. Not one of them try to intervine and talked to Mr. Trapp about his wife complaining about his beating and hitting. Nora also had eight children to take care of who would have taken care of her children. As jury I would have look at the evidence closely. Espejo heard when trapp tell a policeman that he went to the restroom after he had a scuffle with Nora. Trapp lit a cigarette. Nora threw gasoline on him because of provocation. I would have request the statement that Trapp himself said about what really happen between him and his wife. Nora was provote first, she was inside the house ,Trapp came upon her. Trapp was the one who lit his cigarette knowing full well that he was smell of gasoline. I think he wanted to make life miserable for Nora. Most of the time he was at the bar drinking. As adults we all know what drinking alcohol do to us. We tend to get silly, dangerous and curse all kind of negative words. I would also consider her pregancy every child have the right to live. Who are we to take it away.
Pamela said:
ReplyDeleteif Nora Param was living in this time her fate would be very different. women have risen to the occassion. it's not like back in the days when we didn't have any rights. there is the women's Commsission that looks out for us as women as well a the ministry of human develoment domestic violence unit. domestic voilence has become a serois issue in belize and it has become all too frequent over the years. however women are still afraid to go and report because of varios reasons. also if Nora went on trial in the present time she wouldn't have a jury that consisted soley of twelve males.
pamela said:
ReplyDeleteAndrea Comments:
i agree with what andrea siad. in this modern time Nora would be entitled to a fair trial which means she would have a mixed jury. also she would have lived because just with the click of a button an email would have been received in seconds, pardoning her life. she would probably be with us right now seeing her children grown and being an icon and the face of domestic violence for the many women that are afraid to speak out.
I agree with Pamela and Natalie. I believe that women have risen to the occasion and are fighting for the rights of other women. Even if Nora was “guilty” she would have been acquitted due to the constant abuse she received from Trapp. Some women are still afraid to report their abuse because they are still some “Trapps and his friends” in the police force. Personally, if I had a ache like Trapp in my side causing me pain and no one could help me, I would remove it myself. “Trapp hit and Nora lit” would have made headlines on channel 7 but she would have still gotten a fair trail. All the evidence and witness would be called in regardless of Trapp’s profession. I also believe that due to the lack of eye witness, factual evidence and tremendous support that she would received, jurors would have to give her a lesser charge or acquitted her after all it was self defense.
ReplyDeleteEven though Nora Param was in an abusive relationship and she tried escaping however because she was in love and she kept on going back doesn't mean she lit that fire!!!!!! If she was living in this time period i think she would have been stronger in the sense that she would have taken care of her 8 children all on her own without having to depend on a man! women today is going and have gone through what Nora went through and they fought in a way that they escape.
ReplyDeleteTuesday, October 27, 2009
ReplyDeletenora parham
Nora Parham created two of the worst sins ever. She killed a police officer and this police officer happened to be a man that was living in one of the most male dominated eras in Belizean history. Some historical accounts of the case claims that Trapp was abusing Parham. It is not legal or morally right to take human life for any reason, but if chronic abuse was being metted out by Trapp to Parham, I can understand why she did it. The Nora Parham case is not one of individual justice but a reflection of social hierarchy, norms and mores at the time. In Belizean society at that time, women did not have any kind of power and the powers that be at that time would have in no way condoned a woman to take power i.e. killing a man in any way, fashion or form. It would have sent the wrong message to other women in that it would be okay to take the laws into your own hands. People that kill cops are still dealt with swiftly by the law and at the own hands of the members of that fraternity.
THE JUSTICE SYSTEM IS NOT THE SAME AS IT WAS IN THE 60'S. IT HAS CHANGED AND WOMEN ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR SOCIETY AND ARE TAKING CONTROL AND I AGREE WITH ANDREA THAT IN THIS DAY AND AGE, NORA WOULD HAVE BEEN GIVEN A FAIR TRIAL FREE OF MALICE AND THE BONDAGE OF A TRADITIONAL MALE DOMINATED SOCIETY
ReplyDeleteIf Nora was living today things would have been totally diffrent , in todays society women have power and rights.Males are being dominated by women. it looks that at those times when the tragedy occur men had more power than women.In today society females are being more educated and free of expression. i totally believe that Nora was wrongly convicted. Trapp was a physical abuser but because he was a cop things were on his favor.
ReplyDeletei agree with what CASS says about it is not legal nor right to take the life of other person for any reason, but if chronic abuse was being metted out by Trapp to Parham, I can understand why she did it. Sometimes we get to a point that we cant continue suffering. i believe that all human have limitation and in fustration and axieety we do things that at the end we regret. as in the case of nora and trapp !!
ReplyDeletePamela I agree with your comments and that Nora Parham fate would have been different. I am glad to see that as a woman there are others agreeing with me that the Women and Human Rights Organizations would have been Nora’s backbone helping her through her ordeal. In today’s time like Pamela commented that Domestic Violence Unit no matter who the person is be him a police would have recommend/advise her on her next best move and even place her in a home (for batter and violence against women) that exist today.
ReplyDeleteUndoubtedly, noone can argue that a series of unfortunate events,whether deliberate or by coincidence,occured on Wednesday, February6,1963. We can never be 100% certain as to what transpired.But I would still have to say no. I do not believe that Nora Parham was violently jealous.There is no evidence to show that was the case. There is also no evidence to support the idea of Ketchell Trapp being the victim as Sandra Trapp paints him to be.Rather there's evidence that suggest that he was the aggressor.He was so jealous that he accused her of having affairs and giving him "shell-eye babies." More evidence seem to suggest tha Nora wanted out of the situation or to resolve it. She sought help by complaining to P.C. Donald Sanchez about 8 or 9 times.This was her way of dealing with the matter.
ReplyDeleteI have often had quite heated debates with my friends and family members about capital punishment.I could not understand what all the fuss was is about.From where I'm standing, the way I see it is, if the person is guilty of a heinous crime and they're guilty, then impose the death penalty.
ReplyDeleteBut the Nora Parham case has forced me to reflect, reevaluate and come to terms with what others have been trying to tell me for so long. Eureka! If one innocent person is going to be unfairly executed, then it's not worth it.After all if the person is truly guilty, they will not escape from the judgement of the Most High.So, if I were a part of the jury I would not find Nora guilty because she was just defending herself. The person's intent would help to deterrmine sentencing.She did not kill him. There's no evidence that she set him on fire.
I disagree with what Kiera said.How could You find Nora guilty of manslaughter? She didn't even deserve to die because she was innocent. She was only defending herself after years of emotional,physical and mental anguish. The trial process was not fair.They presumed that she was guilty until proven innocent. This is evident from the label of "cop slayer" that they levied on her. There was no women's rights in 1963 or women's organizations.Women in 1963 were probably very submissive.Proof of this would be the amount of children she had with him even though their relationship was turbulent.At the least Nora deserved a fair trial. She was beaten and abused by Mr. Ketchell Trapp and by our Judicial System.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry for posting my work this late but I had great difficulty. Thanks for UNDERSTANDING!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteIf Nora Parham were living in today's time period, would her fate have been the same?
ReplyDeleteIf Miss. Nora Parham would still be alive, her sentence would be different. In our Modern time they are more laws that have been place into the justice system to protect criminals from being hanged. From since then to now our justice system is a different system, in terms of hanging. They are many crimes that deserve the death penalty and it was not prevail. In our modern time they have been several instances of crime like what Nora was alleged to have done; however, they weren’t hang to death, a much smaller sentence was placed. For example just in the news last week we had a case where a man killed his wife over a piece of ham. He only received fifteen years imprisonment. In my eyes that’s a crime that deserve the death penalty.
I believe, if the jury was split equally with half male and half female, they would have been someone there to feel what Miss Parham went through. In our time now, they would have never place a jury like that to try a case that has to do with the killing of a man and most of all a police officer. So I believe that she would have had a chance at a fear trial in our time.
I agree with Renee that with all the human and woman rights movement in this day and age, she would be alive. She share the same testament as me when it comes to the jury, if she had a jury of her peers or even some of her peers she would have stand a chance.
ReplyDeleteI think if this incident happened in these times Nora would be a living woman. Becasuelook at crime and all the criminals who kills and walk away as a free man. Some may go to jail for a while and set free couple months after. I truley belive the whole situation wasnt about jealousy but more about a drinking behavior dat Mr. Trapp has. I agree with Renee with all the women movement and rights againsnt domestic violence things wouldnt have gotten out of control where by both of them got killed because she would have been adviced to left the relationship eventually. And even now if she had killed her husband she wouldnt have gotten hang because of the law that corpral punishment is not implemented. She would maybe spend an amount of years in prison for her act but would not be hang.I agreed with Nathalie that many women are fighting for thier rights even if they are fighting alone. I belive deep down that Nora was a great woman and because of lack of evidence she was tortured so brutally.Eventhough she left behind her children who are un puzzle about her death, she is at the right of God. And as a result everything happens for a reason!
ReplyDeleteDeshawn said
ReplyDeletewell if she was in this time she would have been shown justice because in those time men were the backbone and policemen were looked up to. she would not have been hang but given time to serve and to work on herself and the abuse she went through.
deshawn said
ReplyDeletelorna comments
i agree on what she have stated because in this time mrs.parahm would have being alive and the justice system would have being different from then compared to today and she would have faced a fair justice.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI agree to disagree with Cass in some aspects. There are worst sins than that of what was allegedly committed by Nora Parham. I agree with the fact that the time period was one of the most male dominated eras in Belizean History, and that it is not morally right to take a life, therefore the justice system was morally wrong when they took away Nora Parham’s life, were they not? It is not just understandable that she defended herself from Trapp, by doing what she did; it was the right thing to do. Yes women did not have any kind of power in Belizean society at the time, but when the law is lack and lagging, to take it in one’s hands is the only justice that is satisfactory to the victim. It is unmistakably clear from Cass statement that Nora Parham committed the crime, I do not think she did, the only thing Nora was guilty of was self defense, if we are guilty of defending ourselves then what right do we have as human beings.
ReplyDeleteIf Nora Parham had been living in today’s time period, her fate would definitely not be the same. The law is looked at from so many angles this day and age, and with the help of forensics, it could have been proven that she had not struck a match to light Mr. Trapp on fire. It is evident that she was punished the way she did because Mr. Trapp was a police officer and serving the country and Queen at the time. Even today, the same thing is happening, there are many women who are victims and sufferers of domestic abuse, but because their husbands are men of the law, the men are not convicted and their cases are often overlooked by authority figures.
ReplyDeleteEvidence surrounding the circumstance shows that Nora Parham was provoked, and unfortunately it was then and there that she had reached her breaking point. In her statement she said that Mr. Trapp had hit her with a stick, and proceeded to take away the gasoline pan to hit her with it, she reacted as any person would, and threw the gasoline on him. In Trapp’s statement to the police, he said that, Nora was getting ready to iron and she threw gasoline on him because he had already given her some blows. He even stated that she did not light the match. If this case would be in today’s time period, Nora would be seen as acting in self defense, Mr. Trapp would be considered of being contributory negligent when he struck the match to light his cigarette while he was in the latrine, which eventually led to him being set on fire.
There were no witnesses to say that Nora had first handedly lit a match and set the latrine on fire as was stated, therefore in this time period she would not have been convicted of the crime. The current justice system, would look at the couple’s past domestic disputes and the reports made by Nora Parham. The system is more often than not, lenient on victims of domestic abuse, and with the Women’s Rights to assist her, she would have been definitely acquitted of the crime.
It is apparent that Nora’s trial was biased as she was convicted by a jury of 12 men unfortunately the incident happened in one of the most male subjugated eras of our time, having said that, Nora was not offered the right to a fair trial as she did not have a mixed jury. She had been strip of her Human Rights and the Constitutional “right to a fair trail” She had poor representation and was clearly “set up to be broken down” her trail was hurried, which diminished the chances of collecting evidence and key witnesses. Even if Nora Parham was guilty of the crime, she would be exonerated as her history of constant abuse and the disadvantages of living with an alcoholic would be one of the key points of her trail.
After reading my classmates comments that were posted I agree with most of them. I definitely believe that if it was today her fate would have been different. I believe that Nora would still be alive if it was today. I think if they would have taken their time to solve this case , justice would have been done. My heart goes out to her children because its hard to loose a love one especially if they were innocent. I don't know if she did the crime but if she did I don't believe they should have taken her life away especially if she was pregnant. I strongly believe that Nora didn't get justice and what was done to her was wrong and unfair.
ReplyDeleteI strongly agree with Mrs. Bennette when she said that Nora’s trial was biased as she was convicted by a jury of 12 men unfortunately the incident happened in one of the most male subjugated eras of our time, having said that, Nora was not offered the right to a fair trial as she did not have a mixed jury. She had been strip of her Human Rights and the Constitutional “right to a fair trail” She had poor representation and was clearly “set up to be broken down” her trail was hurried, which diminished the chances of collecting evidence and key witnesses. I strongly agree with Mrs. Bennette that justices was not done.
ReplyDeleteNora Parham was not judge fairly, there were no female jury in the court therefore she did not have a fair trial. If it was in this day and age i believe she would still have been alive and a fair trial would have been done. I do not believe the situation was about jealousy. Nora was a good woman who was only defending herself. She did not kill him and there is no evidence that point to her saying that she set him on fire.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Pamela's comments. Nora Parham fate would have been different. Women does have rights and i like how we now have domestic violence unit to look out for women. And i also believe Pam is right when she says that women are still afraid to report domestic violence but we should put our shame aside and do what is best for you. Yes, if Nora went on trial in this present time there would have been females in the jury and a fair trial would have been done.
Having read the article on Nora Paraham and her unfortunate death, it is clear how primitive the rules and laws were back then. The Justice system was a failure back then due to our colonial rule and British influence. The laws were mainly to protect the colonial masters and free coloured slaves that were evidently on the loose in Nora's time. Nonetheless, if Nora Paraham was alive today and she was accused of the same crime as she was back then, her outcome would have definately been different. Many organisations today are against women abused which is prevalent in todays society. The court system and the family court today along with the family violence unit at police staion are all working in arms to stop violence against women. Thus, Nora would have been spared that gruesome and historical death, which to me is portraying the act of a coward with no heart that would take the only family member her kids have by hanging her.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, I agree with Anya's comment that Nora did not receive a fair trial and that her verdict was founded on the basis of bias and partiality after it was found that they were no female jurors on the panel during the case.
After reading the document it made me realize that the justice system in Belize is very unfair in that Nora was taken for an example being that she had a situation with "one of the Queen's Men"
ReplyDeleteThis is very unfortunate to her being that she was alleged of killing this police office and being sentence to hanging.Further, she was pregnant, to which that pregnancy was simply terminated.
If Norma was living in our time the situation would have been far way different as things evolve with time.
One possible out come could have been that she would have been the one that she would have had more support and avenues , so when she left Mr. Trapp, she would make the decision to go right back to him.
Today we have several organization which are in place to give assistant to those who need it.
Another option could have been to simply resort to one of those homes for batter women, as for her children they could have also accompany. Also relatives are play a bigger and better role in family life theses days so she could have left the children with a family member or two.
For women all around the woman we can safely say that we have come and long way and we have a long way to go .
We have been empower by several driving factors so before the situation gets very intense we have door that would open and the red flag that would help us along the way.
If we so decide to stay in that situation and the end results in a lost of life that was intentional, then that is our fault and punishment should be allotted.
All in all things have changed for women to live in a better society and activist are fight for several right for women.
Women Empower yourself so as not to be left behind!
if Nora was living in today's day and age her faith would definitely be different and she would to see more of her life.The court system would be more fair to her and probably make another decision for her conviction instead of being so cruel to her. I believe it wasn't her fault for the situation she was in her common law and her was in an abusive relationship and in nowadays relationship couples take their spouses to police who are fair and Family Violence Unit.
ReplyDeletei agree with Anya and Pamela that Nora would have gotten a fair trial and she would of live. In today's day and age the email would of definitely play that role of quickness instead of waiting on a mail, Nora life would of being speared if that incident had occur in this day and age.
sharlette
ReplyDeletei believe that if Nora was alive in today's society her end result would have been different. i do believe that we as a counrty has come a long way in regrads to the justice sysytem. if her case was taken to court today, the fact that her husband confessed to lighting himself alone would have made a difference in her case. the investigation would have taken on a different form and more evidence would have been submitted. if anything she would have been given gail time with the fact that she had a young child.
in regards to a post made i would like to make a comment. i recently read Miss Bowen's post and somehow disagree with what was stated. i do not believe that it would have helped the case if they got a psychiatrist to be a key witness. i believe that was not needed. they were already key witnesses and statements that could have contributed positively to the case. however on a more positive note, i am pleased to say that women have come a long way.
ReplyDeleteIn the law it is written that if you burn a man's clothing It is considered as an act of attempted murder, as Creole would say if you can't catch him in person then destroy all possessions in that way they will loose something precious. I dont believe Norah killed Mr. trap; however she had intentions to harm him inorder to protect herself. Living with abuse after awhile can cause a person to start thinking outside the box. Having all men jury was a baise. Today if the same circumstances present itself, there is a great chance that she would still be a victim of police brutality in the quest for serving justice to a "cop" killer.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with Miss Bennett that Norah should have been given a right to a fair trial, having a mixed jury would have open many opportunities to hear about her abuse.
If Ms. Nora Parham was still alive today, her sentence would definitely be different. Reasons being that the case wasn’t even based on substantial evidence rather on claim witnesses’ opinions. Also, we have better justice system now than in those years, just by reading the article, it showed clearly it was an unfair trial. As it relates to systems, one of such will be one against domestic abuse since Ms. Parham was abused by her husband over a period of time.
ReplyDeleteAnother reason is that the jury consisted of mainly men, it wasn’t even shared evenly between the gender which showed that the court system itself was biased.
I agree with Renee comment about the Women Rights Movement and today women do get a lot more attention than past years. I think we shared the same opinion about the jury.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with Rosalind that the court system was biased and unfair to Ms. Parham. Not only did her jury consisted of only men but the case was rushed. They didn't take her side of the story into account and with the raising issues of domestic abuse cases I'm sure a jury of both gender would have made a different outcome of that case.
ReplyDeleteMs. Parham was not judged, fairly there were all male juries in the court, and she did not have a fair trail. If her case was present now in the court, i belived she would still have been alive and a fair trial would have been done because she would have had an attorney to give her positive advise. I do not belive the situation was about jealousy, she did not killed Mr.Trapp and there was no evidence that pointed to what was brought against her in court. He killed himself with is own cigarett.
ReplyDeleteWhen I read the article on Nora Parham and her unfortunate death, it is clear that she had a harsh death sentence. The rules and laws back then is that women had little say. The Justice systems were a failure back then due to how we were govern by the British rulers. The laws were mainly to protect the British, the whites and free colored slaves that were evidently on that were a big part of the country in those days. I strongly believe if Nora Parham was alive today and she was accused of the same crime as she was back then, her outcome would have definitely been different. Why, because she would have time to prepare for her trail by seeking legal advise. In Belize there is a department that assists women who are abuse, which is the Women’s’ Department. Presently, the Family court and the family violence unit are all working together hand in hand to try alleviating women abuse in Belize. Ms Parham would have received support from the Women’s’ Department, Attorney and Public Sectors.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Rondel’s comment that Nora did not receive a fair trial because they were only males’ jury present in the trail. Ms Parham verdict was totally on fair and bias. If they were females jurist the trial would have been fairer why, the female would have an idea of Ms Parham felt to have been accuse of being a murder and will have taken it into consideration that she was a loving mother and wife.
LYTHIA R
mr tucker, too much blogs
ReplyDelete