Two-day workshop designed to end gender-based violence

Disunity, lack of role models, violence and drugs are some of the issues that were identified as challenges facing the country, as men and women discussed the topic during a workshop designed to end gender based violence.{{more}}

The two-day workshop began on Tuesday, May 10, 2011, and ended on Wednesday 11. It took place at the Methodist Church Hall.

The second day’s session engaged men and women of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and the Ministry of National Mobilization, Social Development Youth Sports and Culture and other ministry representatives in a programme aimed at creating awareness of the issue of gender-based violence.

During the first session of the day, participants shared their perspective of the challenges facing the country and those faced by men of the country. Responses were similar as most participants highlighted that violence; drugs and a gang type mentality have prevailed in the country as challenges such as lack of ambition, lack of role models and failure to take on their responsibilities, among others, were identified as those faced by men in particular.

The day’s programme also included sessions on Domestic Violence and Law by Parnell Campbell QC, CariMan approach: Finding a Common Ground by Peter Weller, CariMan representative, and an Overview of Communication for Behaviour Change by Weller and fellow facilitator Owen Ellis.

A facilitator of the workshop and UN Women Representative Tonni Brodber speaking to media on Wednesday stated that the workshop is one of eight being conducted throughout the region.

“What we are trying to do with this workshop is to strengthen community action and state accountability to end gender based violence,” she stated, adding that the workshop sought to engage and raise awareness among men in order to have a more cohesive approach in responding to gender based violence.

Chairman of Caribbean Male Action Network (CariMan) Peter Weller stated that through the workshops they did not intend to force anyone to change their beliefs or values, rather it is his hope that participants might examine the implications of these values and beliefs. Weller added that they challenge the men to look at their attitudes and values and in doing this, most realize that the problems caused in the society arise from the implications of such beliefs or values.

Facilitator Owen “Blacka” Ellis hoped to use his skills as an entertainer to add some enthusiasm to the workshop to add to the connectivity between the participants.