White Ribbon Day activities held in Kiribati on 25 November to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women were attended by more than 500 people. The theme of the activities was 'Promoting peace through respectful relationships'. "We wanted this 2015 White Ribbon Day to be an event that would communicate to all that violence against women, girls and children is not okay and should be stopped. We wanted everyone present to feel the loss, hurt and pain that this violence has brought to us all as women, children, families and i-Kiribati", said Anne Kautu from the Kiribati White Ribbon Day Committee.
The day kicked off with marches led by the Kiribati Police Brass Band. Departing from both ends of the village of Bairiki, the processions met in the Reuben K Uatioa stadium.
The host of the event, Vice President Hon. Teima Onorio, said in her keynote address that respect is something all I-Kiribati can relate to as it permeates families, villages, schools, workplaces and churches. A huge step in addressing domestic violence is to further develop this respect as a crucial aspect of personal relationships between wives, husbands and children, said the Vice President.
At the stadium, several community groups performed dramatisations of domestic violence. Spectators also heard testimony from male advocates leading change in their villages to reduce violence against women. Domestic violence service providers presented each of the services they provide, and gave information on how the services could be accessed. Candles were lit and a moment of silence observed to commemorate lives lost to domestic violence, and to reflect on those who continue to suffer as victims.
One of the most anticipated activities of the evening was the 'Break the Chain' dance led by the Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA), with many spectators also joining in.
The White Ribbon Day activities fit into a broader program of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Activities supported by the Australian aid program include a three week radio program delivering campaign messaging; workshops for male advocates of change; and a regional training program run in communities on South Tarawa and Betio. Other campaign activities include road shows advertising services available to the community; an NGO Fair Day; and gender-based violence awareness consultations with police, prisons, schools and other community groups. . The 16 days of Activism and International Day of People with Disability will hold a combined closing event 10 December 2015.
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