No nation can truly advance without providing protection and empowerment for women and children. They are not only beneficiaries, but also agents of change who move the wheels of society and culture. In the midst of the rampant issues of violence and discrimination, providing a safe space and opportunity for them to grow and be empowered is no longer an option, but a shared obligation for a better future. inclusive and equitable.
This thought is the background Pundi Sumatra, KKI Warsi, PeKKa Bungo, and PERMAMPU (APM) which are partners of the INKLUSI Poros Jambi program held a 16-Day Public Campaign Against Violence against Women (16HAKtP) on Sunday, December 8, 2024 in the Car Free Day area, Jambi Governor's Office.
This action is not only a form of commemoration, but also a forum to voice the importance of ending violence against women and children. This activity involved a number of communities that are active in the issue of empowering women and children, such as Beranda Perempuan, SEAD Jambi, Girl Up Siginjai, KAMMI Kota Jambi, Lubuk Puan, and PKBI Jambi. Not to be missed, the Suku Anak Dalam Space community and Sanggar Seni Rasi also enlivened the event with various art and cultural performances and fashion street with local batik products.
The activity under the umbrella of INKLUSI (Australia-Indonesia Partnership Towards an Inclusive Society), successfully attracted the attention of CFD visitors. This activity raised the main theme "Joint Movement to Build Safe Zones and Empowerment for Women," with the aim of increasing public awareness of the importance of protecting women and children from gender-based violence.
"This is not just a campaign, but also a collective effort to show that protecting women is a shared responsibility. Through this event, we hope that more women will feel safe and empowered," said Dewi Yunita as CEO of Pundi Sumatra.
One of the most touching moments was the drama performance by Sanggar Seni Rasi and the poetry reading by Juliana, a woman from the Suku Anak Dalam, who expressed hope for a future without violence.
"We want indigenous women to not only be protected, but also empowered to continue preserving traditions while becoming pillars of change," said Juliana after the event.
Juliana is an indigenous woman from the Suku Anak Dalam tribe who has successfully attended college. She successfully completed her undergraduate education majoring in forestry at the Muhammadiyah University of Jambi in December 2024. Juliana proves that through equal opportunities, especially in terms of education, women can also work and be empowered, even protect themselves.