Philipsburg: --- Commissioner Maria Buncamper-Molanus called on the community in general to take a stand against violence against women by being much more vocal and supportive than they have been in the past. "The world will recognize the day against violence against women on November 25, and I call on our community to be supportive of events and organizations that will be hosting events around that day," the Commissioner said.Buncamper-Molanus pointed out that reports of violence against women usually don't get the screaming headlines unless it ends in a fatality of the abused woman or an abused woman lashing out against her abuser. This nonchalant mind-set of abuse against women, she says, has to stop.
"It is getting to the point where the violence is extending to children who just happen to be around when a violent act is being committed against a woman. It's scary to think that our society has almost become immune to reports of violence against women. We should stand up, speak out and hold the perpetrator of violence accountable. The media, the general public, government, all of us have a collective responsibility when it concerns violence," she said.
The Commissioner stressed that her comments are not only directed towards other women who should report abuse or support a friend or family member who is being abused, but the role men should be playing as well.
"Men should also commit themselves to working towards an end to violence against women. They have to help break the stigma that violence against women is woven into the fabric of Caribbean society. Men should not pat each other on the back and try to justify abuse by any means. Confront your fellow man, talk to him, tell him abuse is never the answer and hold him accountable," the Commissioner said.
Buncamper-Molanus went on to urge mothers to instill a strong sense of pride in their daughters and teach them to expect equality for themselves.
"Violence against women is a worldwide yet still hidden problem. Many of those who perpetrate violence feel justified by strong societal messages that say that rape, battering, sexual harassment, child abuse, and other forms of violence are acceptable. Every day we see images of male violence against women in the news, in the movies, in advertising, and in our homes and workplaces. Unfortunately, it is a fact of life for women of all ages, races, and classes. That does not mean however, that we should shrug our shoulders and let it be. We have to fight to end violence against women," the Commissioner said.
She concluded by applauding the groups that continuously bring about awareness, offer safe havens and solutions and in particular who will be hosting events around the day against violence against women on November 25 and pledged her support for their efforts.
