Courage to stand up and say it's not ok!
That was one of the powerful messages of the White Ribbon riders that resonates with our visit on Tuesday.
We were delighted that the White Ribbon Riders were able to take to the roads with their message again. If you’ve not heard of them before, The riders, who are from all walks of life, are united in their desire to bring the messages of respectful relationships and appropriate masculinity to the groups they visit, be it schools, marae, prisons or community groups.
“Our statistics around domestic violence and more particularly violence towards women are some of the worst in the world and pandemic lockdowns have made this situation worse.”
With the rubble of the Motorbikes approaching it was a beautiful day for the men to ride and a calmness in the air. Our year 9/10 Rangatahi waited with curiosity to hear their message. The riders were welcomed by our Kapahaka group with a powerful Haka and Waiata.
There were stories shared by the men about their past and what their future now looks like without the violence.
Messages of Courage and how we need courage and speak up, tell someone, do something.
Messages that it is ok to feel as men and show emotion. Talking can be a powerful tool to break that cycle of change.
A clear message that Respectful relationships work both ways in how we treat each other, how we talk and how we role model.
If you or anyone is in a situation of violence or abuse in the home, talk to someone, or contact any of the number below.
For our free 24/7 support line, call 0800 AVIVA NOW (0800 28482 669). https://www.avivafamilies.org.nz/
Need to Talk? Text/Call: 1737
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Youthline 0800 376 633 or Text 234
Our Counsellors at school are also able to help.
Jayne Mallinder
Guidance, Health and Well-being
