By: I Gede Sudarma, Youth Empowerment Coordinator
The 8th parent engagement meetings were held from 13-18 November where students and their parents connect about their local culture and engage in discussions on specific topics related to their lives. Held at their respective community meeting halls of the EBPP communities, all junior and senior high students and their parents learned and practiced making lawar (mixed shredded coconut with chicken and spices) and klepet (glutinous rice cake with brown sugar and shredded coconut inside) together. During this meeting, led by our local village policeman, Pak Nengah Budi, they enthusiastically engaged in discussions and outreach about domestic violence and sexual harassment.
Pak Budi outlined the types of domestic violence that usually occur in families, both physically and verbally, which are detrimental to children's growth. He also emphasized the difference between discipline and violence. Additionally, he clarified the difference between teasing and harassing, which is often vague. He stressed the importance of paying attention to other people's reactions and feelings to ensure that our actions do not harm or make them uncomfortable.
One of the girl students asked, “What should we do if our parents are fighting? It’s frightening and makes me uncomfortable.”
Pak Budi explained that they should keep their distance while using signals like coughing to distract them. If the situation worsens, they should seek help from authorities such as the hamlet chief or the police. He also encouraged the students to be open and bold in sharing their feelings with people they trust. He emphasized that parents must provide a safe space for their children to be open and not blame/judge them when they experience harassment or feel uncomfortable.
A safe space is a fundamental condition for children's growth. Hopefully, through this outreach, they will gain awareness of domestic violence and sexual harassment to create safe and friendly environments.
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