University of Guyana students and members of the Social Work Unit in the Faculty of Social Sciences on Saturday evening held a candlelight vigil and march under the theme “Unite to End Violence Against Women” to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Although the United Nations recognises this day on November 25, Sociology Department member Dionne Frank, told Stabroek News that there are usually 16 days of activities subsequent to November 25. The Social Work Unit chose Saturday to highlight the issue.
“The department realises that violence against women is a very big problem in Guyana and that it has become an obstacle in the development of our country. We believe that as an institution preparing students to empower women… our voices should be heard,” Frank stated. She added that while the emphasis is placed on women, men are victims of abuse as well. However, she said, it is evident that more women are affected. Of the estimated 100 participants in Saturday’s activity, a few men could be seen carrying placards and holding candles.
Some of the messages displayed on placards were ‘Children live what they learn, stop violence in the home’, ‘Join the movement, end the violence against women’, ‘My body, my rules, don’t hit me, love me’, and ‘Don’t fool yourself. Love does not hurt’.
