Equality Echo - Shattering Silence on Gender-Based Violence

 Host club: Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown 

Date: December 10, 2023

Event Overview:

The Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown hosted the Equality Echo session on Human Rights Day, December 10, 2023. The session focused on addressing gender-based violence, advocating for human rights, and fostering inclusivity within the community.

 

Session Coordinator:

Mr. Yogesh Khanal, Secretary of RAC Lalitpur Midtown, skillfully coordinated the session, ensuring its seamless execution and fostering meaningful engagement.

 

Key Speaker:

Ms. Sapna Maharjan, Program Coordinator and Women and Child Rights Activist from the Sathi organization, delivered a thought-provoking presentation. With 31 years of service, Sathi organization has been dedicated to rescuing victimized women and providing psychological counseling, establishing shelter homes not only in Kathmandu Valley but also in regions like Bake and Kanchanpur.

 

Participants:

A total of 28 attendees, including Rotaractors and non-Rotaractors, actively participated in the session. The diverse audience underscored the broader community's commitment to inclusivity. Special guests, ZRR from Zone 13, and past ZRRs of Zone 13, Rtr. Regan Maharjan, and Rtr. Hasina Shrestha, enriched the session with diverse perspectives.

 

Helpline Numbers:

Participants were equipped with essential helpline numbers for immediate assistance and support: 

1. Police Emergency Services: 100

2. Ambulance Services: 102

3. Child Helpline: 1098

4. Women's Helpline: 1145

5. Nepal Drug Helpline: 1660-0108855

6. Mental Health Helpline: 1660-0133666

7. Sparsha Nepal: 9849-696996

 

Session Highlights:

The meticulously structured Equality Echo session aimed to impart a comprehensive understanding of various types of violence. Key topics covered included identifying abuse, the government's role in providing timely safety and remedies, instilling trust in justice proceedings for victims, economic violence, political violence, the influence of victims on justice authorities, legal consequences, and community intervention.

 

Participants' Questions:

The session was enriched by thought-provoking questions from participants: 

1. How can one identify if they have been abused by siblings or cousins and ensure their safety?

2. Is the Nepal Government providing timely and adequate safety and remedies to victims?

3. How can we make victims feel safe and initiate justice proceedings with their trust?

4. What is economic violence, and how can individuals protect themselves?

5. What is political violence, and how does it manifest?

6. Will the justice-giving authority be influenced by victims and other factors?

7. What kinds of punishments are stipulated by the constitution of Nepal?

8. What actions should we take if we witness anything wrong in our community, and where should we call for help?

 

Long-term Significance:

The acquired knowledge and skills are deemed invaluable, extending beyond the immediate moment. Engaging in discussions about and addressing gender-based violence significantly contributes to creating a safer and more inclusive community.

 

Token of Appreciation:

In acknowledgment of her outstanding contribution, Mr. Yogesh Khanal presented a token of love and appreciation to Ms. Sapna Maharjan.

 

This event served not only as an informative platform but also as a collective step toward building a community dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence and upholding the principles of human rights. The Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown remains committed to organizing impactful initiatives in the future.

Report generated by, 

Rtr. Yogesh Khanal 
Club Secretary
RAC Lalitpur Midtown.