NEW MURAL SEEKS AN END TO GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 27, 2023 (SKNIS): Drivers and pedestrians traversing Pond Road will observe new imagery that strongly encourages persons to take action to help put an end to domestic violence.

The mural was unveiled on Monday, November 27, 2023, during a brief ceremony by the Honourable Isalean Phillip, Federal Minister of State responsible for Gender Affairs, and the Honourable Jahnel Nisbett, Minister of Gender of Affairs in the Nevis Island Administration.

Ministers Nisbett (left) and Phillip unveiled the mural on Monday.

The image shows a woman with a bruised and battered face, symbolizing the physical and emotional trauma of domestic violence. Her eyes are tearful, and a hand covers her mouth, representing the silence and suppression often experienced by victims. The image highlights the power dynamics in abusive relationships and the societal silence surrounding such issues. Additionally, the mural includes empowering messages like “Break the Silence” and “Let’s Work Together to Stop Domestic Violence,” along with a telephone number for assistance, emphasizing the importance of support and collective action against domestic violence.

“We are depicting and advocating for breaking the silence when it comes to gender-based violence, which is part of the advocacy and awareness building that we are trying to do as part of combating the reality of gender-based violence in our Federation,” said Minister of State Phillip.

She added that the Department of Gender Affairs has a mandate to provide resources for victims of domestic violence, and the mural will help to extend the conversation beyond the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence. The campaign began on November 25 and ends on December 10.

Honourable Nisbett noted that the 16-day campaign follows closely behind the November 19 International Men’s Day observance.

“Unfortunately, men are also seen as the main perpetrators, and so this month can be a call to action to be allies and join us in the fight because only together in the fight against gender-based violence can we truly stamp it out,” she stated.

Minister Nisbett further encouraged men to set a good example for boys to follow.

The mural was created by Anique Ward.

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