Madang women call for change

By ANGELINE KARIUS
WOMEN in Madang have urged families to advocate for change in their clans, communities and society.
The women conveyed the message to eliminate violence against women and children to people of Madang during the White Ribbon Day last Friday.
People gathered near the Bates Oval to witness the occasion.
The theme of their programme was: “It’s now or never … commit act with the demand to end violence against women.”
It was organised by the Country Women’s Association  supported by the Madang provincial AIDS committee and non-governmental organisations such as the World Vision.
According to association general secretary Delma Fabuda, the day was an important event for women around the world.
She said the day was also to recognise gender violence that involved men.
Fabuda said each individual family had in one way or another become victims of violence.
She encouraged families to seek and advocate for change in their homes, clans, society and communities.
“We must understand these issues of violence such as rape, incest and other forms before we can address them,” she said.
She said youths were significant players in their own respective communities.
“I urge you all to treat your mothers, wife and sister with respect,” she said.