Webinar on “Ending Gender-based Violence: An Interfaith Initiatives”

Last Updated (Wednesday, 18 December 2024 17:25)

YMCA Bangladesh in collaboration with Interfaith Cooperation Forum organized an Online Webinar on “Ending Gender-based Violence: An Interfaith Initiative” as part of the "Asia Pacific YMCA’s Call for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" campaign. About 50 members connected through zoom from various YMCAs and religious backgrounds from Asia. APAY President Philip Thomas, GS, Nam Boo Won, Chair of Gender Equity Committee Marshia Mili Gomes, shared the significance of the deep commitment towards creating a safe and inclusive space for all. Executive Secretary Sunita Suna, shared the background of 16 days of activism and the significance of YMCA to be part of the campaign. The four speakers were Rev. Jenifer, Dr. Victoria, Mr. Asaduzzaman and Ms. Susan from Indonesia, Philippines, Bangladesh and Nepal explained about responding to GBV from faith perspectives and through community actions. The webinar was moderated by Mr. Ringku Mankin, Change agent of YMCA Bangladesh and the webinar concluded by a closing remark by the NGS of YMCA Bangladesh Nipun Sangma.

The webinar started with a gospel song and prayer by Jaction Argho and Mr. Flevian D Costa. Ms. Psyche Mankhin, briefly highlighted and introduced on what is Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) and its activities.

Ms. Susan Kathyat Chlebri, Senior Program Officer at Nagarik Aawaz, Nepal, Ms. Jenifer Astin Septian, Lecturer at Philosophy and Theological Seminar in Eastern Indonesia, and Md. Asaduzzaman Rubel, Program and Public Relations Officer, Shanti Mitra. Shanti Mitra Samaj Kalyan (Bangladesh), and Ms. D. Victoria F.D. Bat-og, MMBA, Administrative Officer V /HRMO III, Human Resource & Management Office, Municipality of Midsayap, Cotabato, Philippines, were invited as panelists. The panel discussion was enriched by sharing insights following the Main topic and sub-title: Interfaith Collaboration in Combating Gender-Based Violence: “Challenges, Opportunities, and Actions":

1.     "Challenging Gender Norms: A Path to Ending Gender-Based Violence through Community Action. (Susan).

1.     Building Community Networks to Support Survivors of Gender-Based Violence" According to the teaching of the Holy Bible. (Jenifer).

2.     "Justice and Equality: Combating Gender-Based Violence in Perspective of Islamic Religion & Interfaith Collaboration. (Asaduzzaman).

3.     Breaking Barriers: The Role of Interfaith Dialogue in Gender Justice (Dr. Victoria).

They explored interfaith collaboration, challenges, and strategies to address gender-based violence, fostering meaningful dialogue and action plans. An engaging ice-breaking session led by Mr. Dhrubo Rangsa and Ms. Venus Sangma encouraged participants to express their emotions about gender-based violence through emojis. The webinar concluded with a vote of thanks and closing remarks by Mr. Nipun Sangma, National General Secretary of NCYB, and a heartfelt closing prayer by Progga Modhu.

By Rinku Mankhin,

YMCA Change Agent Cohort