As part of the efforts of the Knights of Rizal – Firenze Chapter and its Ladies Auxiliary Group to address the social issues within the Filipino community, a Violence Against Women and Gender Awareness Workshop was organised this April 27 in partnership with the FWC – Filipino Women’s Council and the Associazione Nosotras.
Chapter Commander Sir Rob Carrillo, KCR opened the workshop and introduced the speakers. Associazione Nosotras President Isabella Mancini gave a welcome address to the participants and highlighted some of the initiatives of her association which has been a leading advocate on women’s issues in particular female genital mutilation. Filipino Women’s Council President Charito Basa, OMRI.
Among the main takeaways from the workshop are the following:
- We must look beyond traditional gender roles that have stemmed from outdated ideas and avoid gender bias i.e. women being prevented from pursuing higher education or pressuring them to focus on domestic roles.
- We must be sensitive to “the intersectionality of gender discrimination” especially for members of the Filipino community where not only being a migrant worker is a source of discrimination but also one’s socioeconomic status, disability, or sexual orientation can make one more prone to discrimination
- Knowing the difference between equality vs. equity and where each is appropriate.
- Being gender aware and taking an understanding rather than a judgemental approach is the first step towards recognising that all human beings, regardless of differences should be treated equally with dignity and respect.
- Violence against women is one of the serious manifestations of lack of gender awareness and is a taboo issue even in the Filipino community. Even if it is not heard of often, it is a reality for many.
- Violence comes in many forms, not just physical or sexual but also, psychological, economic or it can also take the form of structural or institutional violence through exclusion and neglect.
- Filipino organisations and the community have an important role to play in supporting victims of violence against women. Community members and leaders should be supportive of victims rather than blaming them and when victims are ready, support them through seeking help through the appropriate channels.
