By Steven Murdoch | Project Manager
How do you change the mindset of men? And how do you begin to tackle grotesque violence against the most vulnerable women and girls in society?
In 2009, 12 grassroot women’s organisations across 5 states in India came together for the first time to share their experiences, join forces and drive for a step-change in societal beliefs.
Their aim was to end violence against women. More specifically, they targeted violence against Dalit, Adivasi and other vulnerable women. These are the most at risk and most susceptible to domestic abuse and sexual violence.
One particularly effective strategy is to build close relationships with local authorities and public services. In Puducherry, South India, the network works closely with an all-women local police station.
The project has a close working relationship with the police inspector. Together they have given victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse the confidence to file a crime, knowing the police will take them seriously and that the project team will be there to guide them to justice.
In Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, the network has another game-changing approach: Break the stereotype and change the mindset of men!
Bringing together groups of men, the anti-violence training sessions tackle misogyny and sexism head-on. Ishan has just attended a training session. In it, he and the group of mostly young men, digested and discussed a video depicting male violence towards women.
The video is the latest session in a series of discussions that Ishan has attended.
“I have heard talks on gender equality. Initially, I found the facilitators' words to be strange, and I doubted the possibility of achieving equal treatment for men and women at home and in society. Gradually, though, my understanding deepened. The video was strong. I felt really bad afterwards. This kind of violence just shouldn’t be happening.”
Asked how the training sessions have influenced his thinking, Ishan replies:
“It has made me reflect a lot on my own behavior towards my wife. I know I’veexhibited a lot of anger towards her at times and this has been terrifying for her. If you were to ask her, she would say I have changed considerably – even now sharing the household chores. It’s unthinkable!”
By Sophie Stephens | Digital Fundraiser
By Sophie Stephens | Digital Fundraiser
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