Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, has issued a powerful call to action, urging people to no longer stand by as witnesses to violence against women. In her recent conversation with The Fiji Times, Ali emphasized the critical need for intervention in domestic scenarios, highlighting that such violence not only devastates individual lives but also fractures families and harms society at large.
Ali’s message is clear: indifference is no longer an option. She encourages individuals to take a stand and intervene if they know someone is experiencing abuse, instead of merely sharing harmful content on social media. “We must act humanely,” she stated, asserting that involvement is essential in combating this grave issue.
Additionally, Ali pointed out that while violence primarily affects women, men can also be victims of abuse. She acknowledged that many men have reached out to her centre for support. Despite the majority of violence occurring against women and marginalized communities, she noted that there are many good men who do not resort to violence, but the underlying patriarchal structures contribute significantly to the prevalence of abuse.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated already existing issues, as reports of violence surged by 300%. Ali and her team trained male advocates and established a dedicated support line for men, addressing the broader spectrum of domestic violence.
She revealed troubling statistics from the health ministry, indicating that numerous women suffer abuse during pregnancy, which sometimes leads to severe health consequences, even requiring intensive care. Ali further criticized the pervasive patriarchal system that enables such violence, arguing that it imposes strict controls over women’s behavior, often with severe repercussions for those who resist.
This article serves as a hopeful reminder that awareness and action can help change the narrative around domestic violence. By speaking up and actively engaging in intervention efforts, individuals can play a pivotal role in creating safer communities for everyone.
In summary, Shamima Ali urges the public to stop being bystanders to domestic violence, advocating for intervention and support for victims, regardless of gender. The effects of patriarchal control are widespread, but through collective action, there’s hope for a future where individuals stand together against violence in all its forms.
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