Together we can break the silence |01 July 2016

It is time to break the silence on domestic violence as more family keeps getting affected by this issue which is on the rise.

Domestic violence defines and invades every aspect of the lives of those who live with it and is present in all countries, in all cultures and all layers of society. Yet, domestic violence is surrounded by silence.

Pastor Abel Ntep wants to educate people on how to break the silence, so that we unite against violence.

He said the silence becomes part of the violence, which reinforces it and adds to the isolation.

“When nobody talks about the violence, everyone is left essentially alone and it is as if the violence does not exist, eventhough it defines the reality for those who live with it,” he added.

Why violence is hidden in nature?

Well first of all it happens in the private sphere and secondly, the violence silences through various aspects such as fear, trauma, shame, isolation, denial, manipulation, distortion of reality, desperate hopes for change, emotional ties and dependencies.

Explaining how to say NO to violence, Pastor Abel said the first step is to recognise that you are being abused.

“You’re not alone- one in four women experiences abuse in their lifetime and thousands escape to a life free of fear. You can too.

Reach out, speak to someone you trust or get in touch with a specialist organisation who can offer you help and support, he advised.

However don’t let anyone rush you into any decisions.

Together we can break the silence to end domestic violence. Affirm the dignity and worth of each human being and decry all forms of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and family violence.

Identify abuse and violent behaviour for what they are while recognising the global extent of this problem and the serious long-term effects upon the lives of all involved.

Break the silence and create an atmosphere in which secrets can be told and help can be found.