Activism to combat violence against girls 2013

RGS noted that violence against girls in Indonesia increase in number and form. To combat violence against girls, RGS conducted some activities on the “DAY OF GIRL 2013”. The activities include:

·         Drawing competition

51 children from 5 – 18 years participated in drawing competition on the theme ”Girls’ problems”. RGS invited artist and Jesuit father to judge the result.

The winners of drawing competition were granted scholarship up to US $ 120 in cash.

Through the competition, RGS recognized the way children understanding about violence against girls.

·         Day of girl celebration

RGS conducted day of girl celebration on 14 October 2013 at Santa Maria Fatima Junior School. 295 students participated in the event. RGS divided the event in three activities as follow:

Ø  Group discussion

RGS divided participants into 6 groups and facilitated by trainers.

Students discussed about violence against girls on everyday activities in society, church, and family. They also learned about the root of gendered based injustice and commented on it. Through role play, students showed their understanding about violence against girls and the way to stop it.

Ø  Food sharing

Students shared traditional food they brought from home in class. In this session, student learned about sharing. RGS also introduced students that many people in Indonesia live under severe poverty and mostly girls got less access to food and must work to help their parents for food.

Ø  Children’s declaration

12 students from 6 groups made declaration statement to combat violent against girls in Santa Maria Fatima Junior School. There were three points on their statements include:

★   Respect the rights of all students

★   Acknowledge that girls and boys have equal rights

★   Promise to combat violence against girls and eager to protect girls from any form of violence.