Rape culture is real — the words we say may be unintentional, but careless comments, lack of support, and judgmental attitudes cause great harm. Many survivors are harmed emotionally and psychologically because of the myths, stigmas, and stereotypes that are dominant in a patriarchal culture.
As parents and caregivers, we are not in complete control over what happens to our children, but it is our responsibility to protect our children by deciding which adults have access to them. Healthy relational boundaries are a necessary factor in preventing child sexual abuse. These boundaries determine and gauge the health of all relationships.
Learning about the causes and effects of sexual violence in our communities will provide understanding and strategy as we seek to disrupt the cycle of child sexual abuse. If we are to leave an impact, our efforts must be paired with prevention-focused conversations to inspire shifts in African culture.
Linda Toto means “protect the child” in Kiswahili. This program impacts parents and caregivers from diverse socioeconomic and tribal backgrounds, especially those living in informal and rural communities. These educational workshops train parents and caregivers on sexual abuse awareness, prevention, and response.
Pendo’s Power is Freely in Hope’s first illustrated storybook that equips children to use the power of their voices and stop child abuse. Lydia Matioli, our Program Manager, created Pendo’s Power to empower parents to build trust and establish safety measures with their children.
The use of violent language against women and girls is rooted in toxic power dynamics, and if we are to deal with it we must uproot it from it’s core. I believe that the starting point would be to call it what it is: sexual violence.
When schools shut down in Kenya and Zambia, the dreams of our scholars started to disappear. But Freely in Hope staff quickly mobilized programs at our live-in community centers. Help us raise $16K in 16 days to continue this important work.
Learn about what giving in a pandemic means to some of our Hope Circle Members.
As a leader in social impact the change doesn’t come from you. The “social” in “social impact” at its core implies the ownership and involvement of the community.
Learn more on how we’re ending sexual violence in our communities! Subscribe to our newsletters to find out how you can get involved.
