Challenging the silence around violence against women
On the International Day for the Eradication of Violence against Women, the World Council of Churches (WCC) announced a series of Lenten study resources for congregations and individuals who want to do their bit to end violence against women. The campaign is a partnership of the WCC, the World Student Christian Federation (WSCF) and the World YWCA.
‘Cries of Anguish, Stories of Hope’ is the name of the resources, designed to helps Christians to "reflect on ways that healing may come from honestly dealing with the sin", and to give them compassion towards victims and perpetrators of violence.
The interactive resources will include films showcasing the work people are doing around the world to eliminate violence against women. Films will feature places as diverse as Colombia, India, the Democratic Republic of Congo and New Zealand. "The videos illustrate the kinds of violence women experience including by intimate partners, through trafficking, sexual exploitation and sexual violence in conflict settings", explains Natalie Fisher-Spalton, World YWCA Deputy General Secretary.
Each week along with the video, selected texts that deal with violence against women will help church congregations, community groups or individuals to deepen the discussion around stories heard. The campaign will also be interactive, as online discussions will take place where individuals will be invited to give their reflections and ideas on the issue and their spirituality.
"The World YWCA has addressed violence against women since its beginnings. This project encourages YWCAs and churches to take the period of Lent as a time of reflection on one of the gravest violations of human rights, violence against women", said Fisher-Spalton.
The WCC Decade to Overcome Violence website will host the interactive resources from February 17 until April 4, 2010.
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