Domestic violence is a penetrating, critical and deeply affecting issue that affects countless people and, particularly women worldwide. Victims of domestic violence and harassment often choose to suffer in silence due to the series of fear, societal norms and taunts of people, low self-esteem and fear of being rejected and blamed while as the culprits move freely without any guilt and fear. To end this horrible sequence and create a secure, safer, happy society, it is so important that we empower and encourage the women survivors to take stand for themselves and to speak out against domestic violence. Through this write-up I will focus on highlighting the importance of giving strength to survivors of domestic violence and the various ways in which they can take stand for themselves, to be brave, fight for their rights, find their voices and seek support.
It is a form of abuse that knows no boundaries or limits and can occur in any family or any kind/form of relationship. But what I feel is more shocking and shameful is people consider it one of the most difficult challenges or tasks to encourage women to speak out against their abusers, even the family members of the woman who is a victim of this abuse advise her to suffer in silence or just accept it and choose to be silent.
But, why do women remain silent about domestic violence? Why are women advised to bear silently every harassment or this kind of abuse? Why are only women responsible for sacrificing everything? Why should women always bear everything for the sake of love or the family’s reputation, prestige and respect? Fear plays a significant role. They fear the consequences of speaking out, such as further abuse or threats from their abuser. They worry about not being believed, supported or being blamed for the violence. No doubt it is not easy to create an environment where women feel safe and supported when sharing their problems, ideas and experiences. We must create a society where victims are not ostracized or judged but are instead encouraged to seek help, to fight for their rights, to speak against violence or abuse, to take a stand for themselves and other women and to support.
It’s way too important to encourage, educate and empower women and even young girls to find their voice and take a stand against domestic violence or any kind of harassment, we must start by educating young girls and women about their rights and teach them the importance of taking a stand for themselves, not suffering in silence due to any kind of fear or societal expectations or for the sake of reputation or prestige. Our nation needs a change! Our nation needs strong women. We should encourage women to start building their self-worth and
confidence.
Many women in abusive relationships suffer from low self-esteem and a sense of fear, making it difficult for them to fight against the abusers or seek help. By promoting and highlighting the importance of self-care, self-love, bravery and positive affirmations, we can help women regain their confidence and realize their inherent worth and can make them even stronger. This, in turn, enables them to end the cycle of abuse and take a stand against domestic violence or any kind of mental or physical harassment.
Providing proper resources and support is another crucial aspect of empowering women to speak out against any kind of abuse. We must ensure that women have access to counseling services, legal support, proper resources and safe shelters for victims. These resources not only help women fight against any abusive situations but also provide them with the tools, power and knowledge needed to rebuild their lives. Additionally, support groups or communities and contacts or people helping survivors or victims can offer a sense of helping and safer community and solidarity, reminding women that they are not alone and that they and their voices matter.
Raising awareness about any kind of mental or physical harassment, abuse or domestic violence is difficult in educating and encouraging women to speak out. Education plays a crucial role in debunking misconceptions about domestic violence in our society, teaching individuals about the signs and kinds of abuse, and providing proper information on all available resources. By integrating comprehensive education on healthy relationships, consent, good touch and bad touch and consent into school curriculums, we can empower our young youth or coming generations to recognize, reject and speak out against abusive behavior. Public awareness campaigns and online campaigns about such issues can also play a significant role in overcoming societal norms and encouraging victims to break their silence.
However, other than campaigns and such communities, it is important to have legal support and rights. Motivating women to speak out against domestic violence also requires inclusive legal support that protects victims and holds abusers accountable.
Laws should be implemented to guarantee that victims have the proper resources or means to obtain constraining orders for their protection that prioritize their safety and well-being. Building such a legal and justice system that supports, encourages and protects victims and survivors can empower and give strength to women to come forward, speak out for themselves and seek help and justice for the abuse they have sustained.
In conclusion, educating young youth and women to speak out against any kind of violence, abuse, harassment or domestic violence is not only important for their safety but for the improvement of the whole society. By ending this silence, promoting rights, self-love, law, self- worth and empowerment, providing resources and support, raising awareness, and
guaranteeing legal protection and justice, we can create a world, society and nation where women are no longer abused, tortured, killed or silenced by the fear of prestige, reputation or societal norms. It is the responsibility of each one of us to create an environment where women’s voices are heard, believed, and valued, fostering a society free from the plague of any kind of violence, harassment, abuse and domestic violence. Together, let us create safe environment and a brighter, safer future for all women.
( Author is pursuing Journalism and mass Communication. Feedback: [email protected])