The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence commenced recently, and Asinate Ofa, associated with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), emphasizes the need for greater action to dismantle the culture of silence surrounding child adverse experiences in the country. Speaking during the launch event held at the Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva, Ofa highlighted the ongoing struggles with violence against women and girls.
Reflecting on her own harrowing experiences, Ofa noted that she began facing violence from her father at the age of 19. She expressed concern that societal norms still silence many women and prevent them from addressing their circumstances. Ofa shared her childhood memories, witnessing her mother endure domestic violence, which left her with enduring physical and mental trauma.
Drawing upon her own journey as a survivor, Ofa believes sharing personal stories is crucial in breaking the cycle of violence. She advocates for increased awareness about the importance of confronting these issues, stating, “It begins with us and how we choose to handle our situations.” Ofa also anticipates that more individuals will begin to share their stories, furthering the dialogue on this critical issue.
IOM’s chief of mission, Solomon Kantha, reiterated the urgency of the situation, citing statistics that reveal two out of three women experience domestic violence, indicating substantial work remains to be done in addressing these challenges.
This year’s activism campaign serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of communication, awareness, and support within communities. By sharing experiences and encouraging open dialogue, communities can unite to foster an environment where violence is openly addressed and ultimately eradicated. Such initiatives bring a hopeful vision for the future, where survivors like Ofa can inspire change and healing.
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