LEADERS ADVOCATED FOR ENDING VIOLENCE
Photo: Eyespy Radio 87.5
The Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) has successfully implemented the fifth of its six activities under the project entitled “Eliminating Violence Against Women and Girls”.
The project, which received funding assistance from the government of Samoa, was implemented from April to December 2022. The advocacy and awareness activity engaged leaders and youths from various groups to engage men and boys in the effort to eliminate violence against women and girls.
Groups that were involved in this activity included government leaders, church leaders, village leaders, male role models, and church youths. Notable figures such as Honorable La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao, Archbishop Alapati Lui Mataeliga, the boxing champion Jai Opetaia, and weightlifting gold medallist Don Opeloge have all made public statements advocating for an end to violence.
In addition to this, rehabilitative male offenders of violence referred from the Family Court to attend rehabilitative counselling with SVSG have stepped up to advocate for eliminating violence against women and girls.
This was a significant change in attitude, as they recognized the harm they had caused and were motivated to make amends by working to prevent similar violence from happening to others in the future.
The final stage of this fifth activity was when SVSG organized a Youth Festival where youth groups from different denominations and organizations came together to address the issue of violence against women and girls through performing arts performances such as drama, skits, and contemporary dances in order to raise awareness and promote change. By involving the youth, SVSG ensured that all ages are made aware and informed.
“The Samoa Victim Support Group would like to thank the government and all those who participated in this activity for their support and commitment to the elimination of violence against women and girls.” SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang