QUEEN Victoria School has stepped forward to encourage men and boys to join in a movement centered on respect, compassion, and accountability in their daily lives. This call to action was prominently featured during the school’s Strides Against Violence Against Women and Girls event held on Saturday, led by QVS principal Waliki Naisau.
The initiative coincided with the global campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Violence against Women, and aimed to foster a community that prioritizes safety and respect for women and girls. While the event also raised funds for the school’s athletics program, its core message was about instilling a culture of care and responsibility among young men.
“This gathering goes beyond just a walk; it represents our commitment to unity, respect, safety, and inclusion,” Mr. Naisau emphasized. He underscored the significance of young men recognizing their role in promoting respect for women, embracing inclusivity, and actively being part of the solution to this issue.
The timing of the event was particularly poignant as it aligned with White Ribbon Day, a day that pays tribute to the 14 women killed in the tragic Ecole Polytechnique massacre in Montreal on December 6, 1989. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against gender-based violence and encourages men to pledge against such actions.
Shamima Ali, Co-ordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), highlighted the progress made in Fiji towards addressing patriarchy and its implications for violence against women. “Men must take responsibility for ending violence, challenging inequality, and standing up to patriarchy,” she stated, reinforcing the call for collective action.
The walk not only symbolized the fight against violence but also emphasized the importance of eradicating bullying and advocating for inclusion for people with disabilities. This event serves as a hopeful reminder of the steps being taken within communities to build a culture of respect and support for all individuals, particularly vulnerable groups.