ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, October 4th, 2012 – The community is encouraged to practice healthy communication in their relationships as the Office of Gender Affairs observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, under the theme “Love Does Not Hurt”.
Speaking with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Gender Affairs Coordinator Ms. Lorolie Connor explained, “Love is biblical where you are supposed to have a help-mate; someone to love you and care for you.”
Ms. Connor stated, “The Domestic Violence Awareness Month committee therefore decided on a theme to help the community to understand that real love is something beautiful. It does not hurt and you should be there to support your mate.”
According to the office, since 2009 there has been a gradual increase in the number of cases related to domestic violence. In 2009, there were 69 reported cases, 46 of which were common assault. As of August 31, 2012 there were 63 common assault cases, bringing the total number of domestic violence cases by August 31, 2012 to 124.
Thus, throughout October, the Office of Gender Affairs has collaborated with various community partners to host numerous activities. These include personal safety and self defence classes with Tortola Judo Club on October 6; and the “Love Does Not Hurt” Conference with Agape Total Life Centre on October 12 and 13 featuring acclaimed author and licensed clinical Social Worker, Mrs. Leslie Vernick.
Additionally on October 19, UMI will host the “Love Does Not Hurt” Fashion Show featuring House of Assembly Members on the runway. On October 26, the public is invited to Dancing with the Stars FSN Fundraiser.
Finally, on October 31 in partnership with Delta Petroleum, the Office of Gender Affairs will host a memorial Balloon Release for Ms. Kawanna Todd Rhymer, who was laid to rest on March 31, 2012 following a domestic dispute on March 16, 2012.
The Gender Affairs Coordinator is encouraging people to support the activities planned, and to understand that in some cases if there is no intervention, death is the result of domestic violence. She also noted that several young people are being negatively affected by domestic violence and it needs to be stopped.
The Office will also be facilitating several educational sessions on the revised Domestic Violence Act 2011 and the Domestic Violence Protocol at schools and community organisations throughout the Virgin Islands.
For more information on the calendar of events or to arrange an educational session, please telephone the Office of Gender Affairs at 468-0017, 468-3701 extensions 2234 or 3415. Alternatively, the public may email gaffairs@gov.vg.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership that promotes health, social well-being and a safe environment.
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