Violence has become an extensive pandemic disease in our societies. It has become an everyday meal, and people are getting used to it, yet it kills and destroys our societies. Though most cases of violence are hidden under the pillows, we hear of them every day. Victims of such abuse tend to protect the perpetrators or either be afraid to report it.
As the number of unemployed young women increases, the majority of them tend to fall prey to violent marriages. They are abused left, right, and centre either physically, mentally, psychologically, or sexually. It once tore my heart in the past few months when I heard of an incident whereby an abused woman reported the case to the police. After that, the same woman, with all the bruises and pains all over her body, went back to the court to plead with the court to free the husband. It became clear that all this was done because she feared the unknown that would or might happen in the future.
It’s a bit traumatising and questionable when such instances happen. Do we withdraw such cases after reporting because we love our partners? Do we feel pity for perpetrators at the expense of our happiness? Are we that submissive to the extent of submitting our bodies as an offering to violent people in the name of love and loyalty?
It’s just a wake-up call for us to find ways of stopping this deadly disease(violence). It is now left to us as young women to fight for ourselves. Let our voices also have a meaning for society, starting at home, in organisations, and at the national level. Let’s be confident enough to stand up for our rights and eliminate disturbing situations that disturb peace.
With this pending violence issue, young women seem to be more affected. They have lost confidence in themselves as well as in the public. Some are even shy or afraid to raise ideas because they are regarded as people who can’t make informed decisions. This highly affects society because we need young women who are brave enough to stand for what they want.
Moreover, violence victims tend to commit suicide, especially when they don’t quickly get the support they need. Others can’t even express it with the fear of being hurt by the abusers. They only solve their problems by ending it all through death.
Self-esteem is also lost in women exposed to violence. They can’t stand for what is right or good for them. They feel inferior, tend to lean on men and forget that they can build solid societies and the nation itself.
If one can take a look at young children with violent behaviour in schools, the majority of them come from violent backgrounds. These children tend to have anger issues; hence, violence in society also has a lousy ending for our kids.
Therefore, our role as young women is to unite, support each other, and build peace in our societies. We can create peace and transform our societies with one voice and direction.
BY JULIA MOYO