Caribbean Women in Leadership Saint Lucia Chapter (CIWIL SLU) expresses profound sorrow and outrage following the tragic loss of two young women to violence in recent incidents. This heartbreaking reality underscores an urgent need for collective action to combat violence, particularly violence against women, which continues to plague our communities.
As advocates for women’s rights and empowerment, CIWIL SLU stands united in our commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all women and girls. The recent events serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of violence and the critical importance of addressing its root causes.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims. Their lives were cut short, and we must honor their memory by taking decisive action,” said Caron Tobiere, Chair of CiWIL Saint Lucia. “This is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that affects all citizens. We must come together to create an environment where violence, and in particular, violence against women and girls is not tolerated.”
CiWIL Saint Lucia calls on government officials, community leaders, and citizens to join us in a multi-faceted approach to combat violence against women. This includes:
Raising Awareness: Launching community campaigns to educate the public about the signs of violence and available resources for victims.
Strengthening Legislation: Advocating for stricter laws and policies that protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
Supporting Victims: Establishing and promoting accessible support services for survivors of violence, including counseling and legal assistance.
Community Engagement: Creating platforms for dialogue within communities to address gender-based violence, promote healthy relationships, and empower women.
Encouraging Male Allies: Engaging men and boys in conversations about respect, consent, and the importance of standing against violence.
As a community, we must collectively denounce violence and work towards a future where every woman can live free from fear and harm. CiWIL SLU invites all stakeholders to join us in this essential dialogue and to participate in upcoming community forums aimed at addressing this critical issue.
Together, we can make a difference and pave the way for a safer, more equitable society for all.