Pohnpei post: Setting the Sun on Violence Against Women

8 December 2015

Category

Development

On Saturday 5 December, the Australian Embassy in Pohnpei hosted its first White Ribbon Walkabout – a 5km Fun Run/Walk – in support of White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign. The White Ribbon Walkabout was held at sunset under the slogan 'Set the Sun on Violence Against Women', with Chargé d'Affaires of the Australian Embassy, Perry Head, providing opening remarks. "Violence against women is a serious issue with devastating and long-lasting effects on all who are exposed to it", said Mr Head. He noted that, though the issue is often hidden, we all have a responsibility to address it.

The Walkabout was open to the public and attracted an impressive 400 participants. A large number and variety of local groups participated in the event including representatives from non-government organisations; the diplomatic corps; youth, women's and sporting groups; religious institutions; the private sector; and the local expatriate community. A number of Pohnpeian women, men and children also participated. The high turnout of participants was encouraging, and ensured the White Ribbon message reached a broad spectrum of Pohnpei's community.

The Walkabout formed part of a broader range of events run by the Australian Embassy in support of White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism campaign. On 8 December the Embassy hosted a reception for more than 50 guests from a range of sectors of Pohnpeian society, with a prominent female advocate against domestic violence addressing all guests. On 1 December, the Embassy hosted an afternoon tea for representatives of youth organisations to discuss what constitutes domestic violence. The Chargé d'Affaires highlighted the serious and global issue of domestic violence, the consequences of violence, and the economic, social and health impacts on affected communities. Participants undertook to share the insights with their peers.