Father's Day communique
by acdadesky | June 11, 2010 at 5:57 PM
Hello all,
As we discussed a few weeks ago, I would like to propose that we publish a Haiti Father's Day communique - June 30 - modeled after what we did for Mother's Day BUT with a special focus: a call to Haitian Men to be/become Gender Advocates. It would have a special focus on GBV and men's role in that fight. What do you think?
This communique could have a special focus on Honoring Fathers, Honoring Impt Male Leaders who died Jan 12, and also honoring emerging Male leaders.
It would also honor SONS who died.
Please let me know your thoughts.
We'd need to work on this the beginning of next week and I am willing to do so - and am asking any of you who wish to help me develop this communique to respond HERE.
NOTE: I would like to highlight progressive men's groups, like one in Jacmel that works with Fanm Deside on GBV. Please share your information about any groups with me.
we could also include links to groups like Man Up and others who work on GBV and may be Caribbean based.
Merci,
Anne-christine
Comments
I think this is a great idea
I think this is a great idea and will go a long way in helping to defuse violence. I know very little about progressive men's groups in Haiti but I think the more men we can attract under this banner the better. There should be an ongoing dialogue. I welcome suggestions re: how I can help.
suzanne
Father's Day in Haiti
Dear AC and All,
Inspired idea, and yes, definitely a focus on fathers AND sons, as well as GVB. We could actually consider broadening that to include a focus on gender equality, then place special emphasis on the violence aspects (ie "the equality of women includes the right of women to bodily integrity, and freedom from rape, violence, and exploitation").
This could link with the Gender Shadow Report in some way, or at least the idea of "gender mainstreaming" within the context of the PDNA and general rebuilding. In my view, violence against women is part of a much larger tapestry of change that needs to be woven, with the overall picture of equality. Men have a crucial role to play in helping to make that happen...in fact, without men working on these issues right alongside women, it most likely will not happen.
I know in the African context these things must be said "delicately," but there is surely a way to do that which encourages rather than antagonizes. The Mother's Day letter was beautifully written, so I have every confidence you could do that again (and I'm happy to offer a little help from our friends :)).
I would like us to mention the Lambi Fund option of donating for Father's Day, too, with a card on their site that can be printed out, announcing the donation in honor of dear ol' dad :)). It would be great if some funds could be generated for a member doing work on this subject!
Thanks immensely, AC, and millions of cheers for your brilliant brain (and tender heart)! Janet