On 27th August 2024, a Setu Nepal , supported by Sangharsha Mahila Samuha , organized a community program in Kamalbinayak, Bhaktapur, with the aim of promoting women's empowerment and raising awareness about Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and HIV. The event showcased products made by women beneficiaries, including pickles and handmade crocheted items, while also distributing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials. These included brochures about SETU Nepal, myth-busting sheets on HIV, and detailed information about GBV and support services for violence survivors. Condoms provided by the District Public Health Office were also handed out, despite initial hesitation from participants due to societal taboos surrounding open discussions on sex. Organizers used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe sex in communities where these conversations are often avoided, and the program drew interest even from passersby.
The formal proceedings were led by Executive Director Ms. Ranju Pandey, who provided a clear definition of violence and focused on the subtle yet harmful ways GBV often begins within the home. She encouraged participants to actively engage in combating GBV by taking personal pledges against violence, using powerful statements like "I will not do violence," "I will not be a bystander to violence," and "I will not tolerate violence." Ms. Pandey also highlighted a recent, tragic GBV case to underscore the urgent need for community vigilance and proactive involvement, particularly by men, in preventing such violence. Further deepening the discussion, Ms. Srijana Basnet shared her personal experiences, shedding light on the struggles faced by women in conservative societies where traditional gender roles often limit their opportunities and freedoms. She emphasized the often-overlooked labor of homemakers and the critical importance of financial independence for women. Ms. Basnet also addressed the double stigma faced by marginalized women, particularly those living with HIV and working as sex workers as well as the LGBTIQ+ communities, urging the community to show greater compassion and understanding. Gender specialist Ms. Surya Laxmi Bajracharya then provided an informative session on the provisions available for survivors of violence, detailing the services they are entitled to. Ms. Bajracharya also spoke on domestic violence, using stories to illustrate the dangers of the abuse cycle.
The event also incorporated a cultural component that resonated deeply with participants, including the singing of traditional Nepali folk songs that touched on themes of GBV and the celebration of the Teej festival. The participants also enjoyed by dancing at the end of the program. This cultural expression not only added richness to the program but also reinforced the importance of community support and collective action in addressing GBV. The enthusiastic participation of men was particularly encouraging, as it further enhanced the program's impact.By the end of the program, the final number of participants had reached 58. By blending education, advocacy, and cultural celebration, the event effectively sensitized community and family members, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of GBV and a strong commitment to preventing violence in their own lives and communities.
