16 Days, one goal: End domestic violence

Imagine this: a quiet evening in a typical Jamaican household. The smell of dinner wafts through the air but the atmosphere is thick with tension. The loud argument in the living room escalates, words turning to shouts, and, soon enough, the sounds of violence are heard. The children in the next room freeze, afraid to make a sound.

This is a scenario far too many Jamaicans know all too well and, unfortunately, it’s not an isolated incident.

Domestic violence often begins behind closed doors where love and care should thrive, but, instead, power and control take root. What starts as verbal abuse or financial control can escalate into physical violence, creating an environment where fear overshadows safety and love. And this isn’t just a problem for the individuals involved – it’s one that ripples through families, communities, and society at large.

At its core, domestic violence is a deeply rooted social issue that begins within the home. It stems from unhealthy power dynamics, often fuelled by inequality, stress, substance abuse, or a cycle of learned behaviour passed down through generations. When a child witnesses abuse or experiences it firsthand, the trauma can shape their perceptions of relationships, often leading to perpetuating the same violent patterns in adulthood.

For many, home should be a sanctuary – a place of warmth and security – but, for victims of domestic violence, it’s a battleground. The silence that often surrounds abuse creates a culture of fear, where victims feel trapped, unable to speak out or seek help. Unfortunately, societal attitudes sometimes reinforce these behaviours, treating violence as a “family matter” rather than the crime it truly is. This silence fuels the cycle of abuse, making it harder to break free.

This is where the ‘16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence’ comes in. Running from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day), this global campaign is a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to take a stand against domestic violence and work toward ending the violence that affects millions every day.

The 16 Days is not just about raising awareness; it’s about shifting the narrative. It’s about transforming how we think about domestic violence, acknowledging that it starts at home and understanding that it is a societal issue that requires collective action to solve.

BREAKING THE CYCLE

Ending domestic violence starts with education and awareness. The campaign emphasises the importance of recognising the signs of abuse – whether it’s physical, emotional, or financial – and knowing how to respond. It also calls for breaking the cycle of violence that often stems from childhood trauma, highlighting the need for supportive services such as counselling, shelters, and legal aid for victims.

But, beyond that, 16 Days of Action encourages people to question the deeply ingrained societal attitudes that enable domestic violence to persist. From normalising controlling behaviours to turning a blind eye to abuse, these attitudes need to change. We must challenge harmful stereotypes, promote gender equality, and support a culture where mutual respect, love, and care are the foundation of every relationship.

As the campaign unfolds, there are many ways Jamaicans can get involved:

• Speak out: Whether it’s in your home, your workplace, or your community, challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes. Stand up for those who may be suffering in silence.

• Support victims: If you know someone affected by domestic violence, offer your support – whether it’s a listening ear, connecting them to services, or helping them make a plan to stay safe.

• Advocate for change: Join local initiatives or support policies that strengthen laws around domestic violence and provide resources for victims.

• Educate the next generation: Talk to young people about healthy relationships, respect, and what to do if they or someone they know is experiencing abuse.

The ‘ 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence’ serves as a powerful reminder that domestic violence is not just a personal issue – it is a social issue that impacts every one of us. It’s a call for a cultural shift, one that begins with the way we treat each other at home, in our communities, and in society at large.

So, for the next 10 days – and beyond – let’s commit to one goal: ending domestic violence. Together, we can break the silence, challenge the status quo, and build a world where no one has to fear for their safety in their own home.

Leroy Fearon is the acting dean, Faculty of Education, The Mico University College, and author and researcher. Email feedback to: leroyfearon85@gmail.com and editorial@gleanerjm.com