QUEEN Victoria School has taken a proactive stance to inspire men and boys to participate in a movement that emphasizes respect, compassion, and accountability in everyday life. This initiative was prominently showcased during the school’s Strides Against Violence Against Women and Girls event held on Saturday, under the leadership of QVS principal Waliki Naisau.
Coinciding with the global campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women, the event aimed to cultivate a community that values safety and respect for women and girls. While funds were raised for the school’s athletics program, the primary focus remained on fostering a culture of care and responsibility among young men.
“This gathering transcends a mere walk; it exemplifies our commitment to unity, respect, safety, and inclusion,” stated Mr. Naisau. He highlighted the importance of young men acknowledging their role in promoting respect for women, embracing inclusivity, and actively contributing to solutions that address these critical issues.
The event’s timing was particularly significant as it coincided with White Ribbon Day, which commemorates the 14 women who tragically lost their lives in the Ecole Polytechnique massacre in Montreal on December 6, 1989. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence and calls on men to vow against such acts.
Shamima Ali, Co-ordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), remarked on the progress made in Fiji towards dismantling patriarchy and its connection to violence against women. “Men must take responsibility for ending violence, challenging inequality, and standing up to patriarchy,” she asserted, amplifying the urgency for collective action.
Moreover, the walk highlighted not only the fight against violence but also the necessity to eliminate bullying and promote inclusion for individuals with disabilities. This event stands as an encouraging symbol of the efforts being made within communities to establish a culture of respect and support for all individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable. The school’s initiative fosters hope and emphasizes the importance of engaging everyone in creating a safer and more inclusive society.