MEN TAKING A STAND AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Across the world, October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  The focus upon the harsh realities of domestic violence on families and communities is often brought to light, from an incident, fundraisers, vigils, community events, or the display of purple ribbons in the honor of the lives of victims and survivors.

All too often, the individuals standing on the front lines, educating and utilizing their voices to raise awareness for domestic violence are women, but that is not enough.  As women, we need men standing beside us, prepared to join the fight, by educating other men in our community, especially our young men about the proper ways to display respect for women and declining from using violence in their display of anger.  

Our boys need men teaching them, being an example, and holding them accountable for deplorable acts against women.  As women, it can no longer be us doing all of the work, our men need to step up, be vocal, and make a change; and that is exactly what a program called “A Call ToMen,” has been doing.  As explained in their description, they are the leading national violence prevention organization providing training and education for men, boys, and communities, aiming to shift social norms that negatively impact our culture and promote a more healthy and respectful definition of manhood. 

Not only do we need to empower our young women, but we also need to educate our young men on respecting women and deviating from societal norms.  We must engage this approach holistically, while bringing up the next generation of youth.  Many of our boys do not have positive male role models in their lives and their images of males are often found in the wrong individuals.  

So men, WE NEED YOU!  As women, while we’re in the world raising a generation of empowered and sophisticated young women, we need for you to work on raising a generation of young men educated on exerting the dignity and respect that we as women deserve.

Why not work together, in ending the systemic cycle of domestic violence.  It only makes sense. 

Peace & Blessings,

Edquina