Written by Rev. Nicqi Ashwood, Just Community of Women and Men, World Council of Churches
The LORD is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope. Ps 34:18 (CEV)
The pressure of Covid-19 confinement continuously creates cracks and chaos in our society, especially in our homes. Femicide, domestic violence, incest, cyber-trafficking, adolescent pregnancy, mental health crises and suicides have become the new normal. Home, rather than being a refuge, has been transformed into office, school and playground for many; and for many, a prison with an indefinite sentence with the jailer always on duty.
But every one of us is a stakeholder in the well-being of the other. And, while we wear masks to protect ourselves and our neighbours from covid-19; it is imperative that we remove the masks that allow the virus of sexual and gender based violence to thrive. In our circles, whether faith-based or other, the 16 Days of Activism is a call for each of us to make a stand; advocating for change and amplifying the voices of the victimized, bringing hope and healing in a bruised and hurting world.
It is as straightforward as ABC:
Amplify the silenced, raise Awareness and Accountability
Break the silence by
Collaborating locally and regionally in private and public sectors to
Determine practical approaches, through policies and protocols, Drawing solidarity through the pulpit and the pews
Embrace campaigns such as #ThursdaysinBlack and #MeToo which Encourage
Friends, Family, Faith leaders from all Fraternities to unmask the evil in our midst. So come
Get on board, Get busy; let’s Get it done
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