REPORT ON THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF MEN AGAINST VIOLENCE CAMPAIGN

OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF ‘MEN AGAINST VIOLENCE’ CAMPAIGN

Men Against Violence (MAV) is one of the nation’s first campaigns that enlists men to work collaboratively with women in the effort to end violence.  Jointly organised by Pembangunan Masyarakat dan Sosial Pergerakan Wanita UMNO Negeri Perak and Non-Governmental Organizations, this first of its kind campaign was officially launched by YAB Menteri Besar of Perak on 31^st. October, 2010 at the Polo Ground.   Several booths set up by participating NGOs gave the theme and event the boost it deserved.   We at Perak Legal Aid Centre were invited to set up an information booth to reach out to the public at large and to act as a social-change-agent to achieve a sense of community and responsibility among men and to engage them in the anti-violence movement.  Cultural performance by various local artists also focused on the theme of the day thus making the event more meaningful.  The Menteri Besar later presented certificates of appreciation to all NGOs.

From its recent launch, there have been numerous chapters formed in Perak.  The aim of this event is to create a community free of violence, to promote relationships based on equality and respect, to encourage positive, healthy expressions of masculinity, and to be visible, outspoken allies for all.

Some of the activities include recruiting nationally-renowned speakers, signings on local campuses and displays at community events.   Men Stopping Violence works locally, nationally, and internationally to dismantle belief systems, social structures, and institutional practices that oppress women and children and dehumanize men themselves.   We look to the violence against women's movement to keep the reality of the problem and the vision of the solution before us.  We believe that all forms of oppression are interconnected.  Social justice work in the areas of race, class, gender, age, and sexual orientation are all critical to ending violence against women.

No matter who or what the contributing factors are, whether the victims are men or women, our target is to create awareness on the issue of violence.

M. Gokoolaram Naidu

Executive Legal Officer

Perak Legal Aid & Human-Rights Committee