Women and girls are not punching bags.
Maleli Seta of Navua revisited the statement at a workshop in Serua where he said when women and girls are supported and respected, they thrive, contribute their talents and strengths, and participate fully in society.
Mr Seta, coordinator of the GET (gender & equality theology) workshop organised by House of Sarah at Vunaniu Village, says a change in mind-set is necessary.
“We need to know that women and girls are not punching bags, we are equal in the eyes of God,” he said.
“We have to understand that everything we do, we have to work together in order to progress.”
Mr Seta said the workshop also focused on people understanding and respecting each other.
“Violence against women is not a solution.
“Hitting a woman, slapping a woman, thinking they’re lower than us (men) has to go away from our mind.
“These are things that do happen at home and it’s good that we bring these kinds of issues where we can talk about it and find solutions.”
Mr Seta said such workshops and awareness programs were necessary in the villages.
“It is important that we know we need to love and respect each other.
“We need to have this kind of workshop throughout the country, especially in villages, going down to that level, especially to the youths.
“Youths who are raring to be married and form a family, they have to know about this.
“Those who are having problems in their families, whatever problem it might be, they need to know how to go about tackling it.
“Violence is not a solution.”
Mr Seta said he was happy with the presence of male representatives in the workshop.
“This has enlightened us on our roles in the house and our part in running the family as a whole.”
About 30 participants including women and youths are attending the workshop which concludes today.