20/11/2024
BREAKING THE SILENCE
By: Lorreanne Alyssa S. Tuñacao
Photo: Alyn I. Buya
On Tuesday, 19th of November 2024, at Teresa Elementary School, a powerful conversation unfolded, one that transcended age and background. It was a gathering not just of students and teachers, but of hearts and minds united against a common enemy: violence against women and children. This event, held in celebration of the 18th anniversary of Violence Against Women and Children’s Month, was more than just a discussion; it was a call to action, an invitation to break the silence that often shrouds these critical issues.
A Day of Awareness and Empowerment
As students adorned in orange t-shirts filled the covered court, there was an unmistakable energy in the air. Orange, a color symbolizing hope and resilience, served as a backdrop for Mrs. Pamela De Leon Romano’s compelling presentation. With her warm demeanor and passionate delivery, Mrs. Romano captivated her audience, reminding them that every voice matters. “I’m not a robot, I’m human,” she proclaimed, holding up a poster that encapsulated the essence of their gathering.
This simple yet profound statement resonated deeply with the students. It served as a reminder that behind the statistics and headlines are real people—individuals with dreams, aspirations, and the right to live free from fear. The stark reality is that 80% of human trafficking victims are women, a statistic that underscores the urgency of their discussion. As Mrs. Romano spoke about the horrors of human trafficking—the exploitation, the loss of freedom—students listened intently, their expressions reflecting a mix of concern and determination.
The Power of Connection
What makes this initiative so impactful is not just the information shared but the emotional connections forged in that covered court. Mrs. Romano encouraged students to share their thoughts and feelings about violence in their communities. Hands shot up as young voices expressed their fears and hopes for a safer world. “I want to help my friends who might be in trouble,” one student said, while another added, “We should look out for each other.” These sentiments highlighted an essential truth: when we foster empathy and awareness among our youth, we cultivate a generation committed to making positive changes.
The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking's role in this dialogue cannot be understated. Their campaigns provide vital resources and support for victims while educating communities about the signs of trafficking. Mrs. Romano shared illustrative examples—drastic changes in behavior, unexplained injuries—that serve as warning signs for those who may be suffering in silence. By empowering students with this knowledge, they become vigilant allies in the fight against violence.
Taking Action Together
As the discussion drew to a close, Mrs. Romano outlined actionable steps for students to take within their own lives and communities. “Be observant,” she urged. “Talk to your friends about what you’ve learned today.” She emphasized that creating a violence-free institution begins with awareness—recognizing potential dangers and standing up against them.
The applause that followed was not merely an expression of gratitude; it was an affirmation of commitment—a promise from these young individuals to carry forward the lessons learned that day. They left with a sense of purpose, inspired not only by Mrs. Romano’s words but by their own capacity to effect change.
A Future Without Violence
This event serves as a powerful reminder that promoting a violence-free institution is not just about policies or programs; it’s about building connections—between students, teachers, families, and communities. It’s about fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and safe.
Let us all remember that breaking the silence around violence against women and children requires collective effort. It starts with conversations like the one held at Teresa Elementary School—conversations that empower our youth to speak out, support one another, and stand firmly against injustice.
In this journey toward creating a safer world for all, every voice counts—and together, we can ensure that those voices are heard loud and clear.
