End the silence on violence against women

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The tragic death of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, following a brutal attack by a male companion, is a stark reminder of the global pandemic of domestic abuse. This tragic event underscores the universal vulnerability of women to gender-based violence irrespective of their achievements or social standing. As a child growing up in rural Jamaica, I have witnessed too many instances of domestic abuse, which are often met with a worrying degree of indifference.

This scourge transcends borders, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is an affront to humanity that millions of women suffer in silence as institutions, often sluggish in their response, neglect to offer adequate protection. The violence faced by women, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, is a profound violation of their fundamental rights. Global organisations like UN Women and Equality Now have made progress in advancing gender equality, but the normalisation of abuse by patriarchal structures undermines their endeavours.

Men, too, must confront their role in perpetuating these cycles of violence and take responsibility for reshaping societal norms that breed toxic masculinity. However, this battle is not one that they must face alone. To women and girls, I say yur voice matters. Do not remain silent. Demand your right to live without fear and to thrive without oppression. The strength of our unity, rooted in solidarity, is the most formidable weapon against the insidious menace of domestic violence. We must act – before more lives are senselessly lost.

YASHEKA WALTERS-ELLIS