Hands Around the Carenage ~ Thank You & Photo Essay

:: by Damarlie Antoine ::

 
On behalf of the Grenada National Organization of Women and the Ministry of Social Development, I am thanking everyone who came out to support the Hands around the Carenage – Candlelight Vigil paying respect to the fallen victims of gender based violence in Grenada, taking the pledge to not condone, commit, nor remain silent about violence against women, and agreeing to respect every human being in light of International Human Rights’ Day.
 

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According to a United Nations Caribbean Human Development Report 2012 titled Human Development and the Shift to better Citizen Security, “Gender based violence serves by initiation to perpetuate men’s power and control. It is sustained by a culture of silence and denial of the seriousness of the consequences of abuse.” In light of this, I am highly pleased with the turnout at yesterday’s event, to conclude the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence Campaign, as it indicates that the recognition of the seriousness of gender-based violence is steadily growing. Knowing that the men, women and children, who came to the event, will do their part to eradicate this ill by spreading the messages heard yesterday evening, is overwhelmingly comforting.

‘Soubeise’ shares his perspective

We would also like to thank everyone who gave their remarks after the ceremony. Especially the well-known “Soubeise”, from the Carenage, for playing his part by giving his meaningful and enlightening remarks, encouraging everyone to not only respect women and cease harming them, but end discrimination against persons in commemoration of International Human Rights Day.

Heartfelt thanks also go out to the Diaspora who lit their candles on Monday evening and took the White Ribbon Pledge.

Kadon’s candle

Maya & Maureen’s candle

Olabisi’s candle

If you were not at the event to receive a white ribbon and take White Ribbon Pledge, we encourage you to take it now. The White Ribbon Campaign is committed to raising awareness about the global pandemic of violence against women and girls in all its forms through educational programming, community outreach, and corporate and organizational partnership.

The Pledge:

“I pledge to not commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women. From this day forward, I promise to be part of the solution to eradicate all forms of violence.”

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Damarlie Antoine

Damarlie Antoine is 22 year old feminist, equality advocate, writer, and poetry performer by the name of Equity. She holds a Bsc in Sociology and Psychology from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. Currently, a Director at GrenCHAP, and volunteer at GRENAIDS and GNOW. Also, she is deeply involved in writing her first book, while enjoying life as a beach bum and nature woman in Grenada.