Dear Editor,
The theme for this year’s observance of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence that begin on 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day, is “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls”. It comes on the heels of Guyana experiencing the highest number of reported femicides in a calendar year – 31 – according to our records.
This raises very serious questions: are we actually working to prevent violence and deaths or are we just comfortable with reporting on their occurrence? Have we become desensitized to the crisis? The official UN commemoration of the 16 days states that gender-based violence against women and girls is not only preventable but must urgently be prevented. It also encourages the mobilization of more people to support efforts in ending violence against women and girls.
Noting this, we are reminded that engaging men and boys – the main perpetrators of violence against women and girls – is a key factor in prevention. Our public education outreaches with essential services workers has revealed that many people – both males and females – tasked with helping others are suffering in silence. One police officer said, “We got to help the public but we have domestic problems too and nothing is in place to help us.”
Among teenagers, we observe a growing reliance on drugs and alcohol use as a coping mechanism and the choice of suicide as the only option for some of those affected by violence. We cannot ignore the tragedies that are happening among us. Prevention requires that no one is left out, ignored or made to feel excluded from the conversation.
Our hope, as we observe the 16 Days of Activism is that all Guyanese think seriously about the perpetration and perpetuation of violence against women and girls and be determined to make sustained efforts to not use violence and abuse themselves and be involved in the efforts to prevent this scourge in our society. To persons suffering in silence: confidential psychosocial help is available at Help & Shelter. Do reach out to us through our Hotline numbers 613-1811/ 633-3788. Our office numbers 227-3454 / 2254731/ 2278353. You can also reach us via our Facebook page @ handsgy.
In closing, we acknowledge the contributions of the Government of Guyana, funding agencies, public and private sector organizations, civil society organizations, other NGOs and brother and sister Guyanese in 2022 and look forward to continued support as we do our part in working to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
Sincerely,
Kevin Massiah
Niveta Shivjatan
Josephine Whitehead
Selina Lepps
Denise Dias
Shondelle Branche
Pamela Nauth
Carole Inis-Baptiste
Linda Hustler Gray
Karen Shaw
Colin Marks
Petal Baboolall
Help & Shelter Board and Staff
