Rameez Makhdoomi
Srinagar, Feb 16 (KMW): Kashmir joined the International campaign of One Billion Rising which revolves around the theme that one billion women suffer violence, in form of beating or rape and one billion people across the world stand up against that violence.
As a matter of fact, the campaign is active in 207 countries and was joined by Change group (recycling Kashmir) in Srinagar.
Khemlata Wokhlu, Chairperson, Social welfare board also visited the event and encouraged the participating youth and the organizers. She emphasized on the role of youth in catalyzing a positive change in the society, by raising their voice against discrimination and injustice, which women suffer, everyday.
She encouraged the girl participants by quoting anecdotes from her life, when people would taunt and tease girls while going to school. She further said that times have changed but we need to change in real sense and that is possible only when youth are emancipated and women empowered.
The event was joined by impressive number of youth from all parts of the Kashmir Valley who expressed their concern about women’s issues by writing their stories of discrimination and injustice, by sketching on the theme of “violence against womenâ€.
Some participants also related their stories of struggle whereas few others compiled and read their poetry dedicated to women. Ahmer Khan, a vocalist also presented his songs in the event.
In the event various themes were discussed about breaking the silence in wake of discrimination, Not associating taboos with dressing and attitude of women, Not believing in heresay and discussing various forms of violence against women be it female foeticide, domestic violence, dowry, sexual harassment or acid attacks.
The initiative was aimed at raising voice against discrimination and injustices suffered by women in all walks of life and strongly condemning the same and working to create a better world for femina.Â
