Gender violence

 

Gender violence

These days a lot of schools are preparing activities to raise awareness of gender equality and violence prevention. In fact, the Educational Government of the Balearic Islands has just published the map of actions each school will be carrying on the 25th of November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence. These activities include songs, reading of manifestos, microplays, films, displays, etcetera.

But, why is it necessary?. It is necessary because of several reasons. The first and more important is that abuse thrives in silence. In fact, it has increased alarmingly since the outbreak of COVID. Secondly, domestic violence happens in families and close relationships; the last place we will think of. Moreover, it is a psychological trap disguised as love. At the beginning there is not a hint of control, anger or violence. This is the reason victims do not know they are being abused. On the other hand,  abusers know all the steps; they seduce, then they isolate the victim and finally they introduce the threat of violence. It is difficult to leave, especially if we bear in mind that most of the victims are killed after leaving.

 Therefore, we have the power to end domestic violence simply by breaking this silence. Victims need it and we can become their voices. Schools are the perfect place to give this voice and raise awareness of this plague.

Jesús García Ferre.