Silence is Violence

We would like to share a summary of our impactful event today, organized by “Umbrella for the Needy in collaboration with the Nolawi Association”. The theme of our gathering, "Silence is Violence," aimed to create awareness and advocate for the prevention of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) against women.

Objective

Our primary goal was to raise awareness about the critical issue of GBV, promote prevention strategies, and empower our community with knowledge and resources to combat this pervasive problem.

Activities

The event was held at our center, where we provide care for mothers and children. It featured a range of activities, including:

·         Distribution of Educational Materials: We provided brochures to inform attendees about GBV, its implications, and available support.

·         Invited Guests: We were honored to have representatives from government bodies, NGOs, and professionals in gender studies and psychology, alongside religious leaders.

·         Opening Ceremony: The event commenced with a spiritual address from religious fathers, emphasizing the importance of community support in combating GBV.

·         Training and Lectures: Psychologists conducted engaging sessions, offering insights into the psychological impacts of GBV.

·         Performances: Students presented a powerful poem and a short drama, vividly illustrating the painful experiences faced by many women.

·         Art Exhibition: We showcased printed stickers and visuals that depicted the current situation in Tigray, highlighting the suffering of women in the region.

·         Coffee Ceremony: A traditional coffee ceremony provided a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering community connection and discussion.

·         Interactive Feedback Chart: Attendees were encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings about GBV through an interactive chart.

·         Media Coverage: Traditional media outlets, including DW TV, Tigray TV, and TBS TV, covered our event, amplifying our message to a broader audience.

·         Community Engagement: Over 200 participants, including IDP women, community students, and a few men, engaged in meaningful discussions and shared their experiences.