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Comforting Hearts, a non-governmental organization (NGO) of New Amsterdam on Friday organized a Youth Rally and March through the streets of New Amsterdam for schools in the New Amsterdam,Arian Foster Dolphins Jersey, East and West Canje areas on the prevention of violence against children and youths.The main thrust of the activity was to sensitize the youths against child abuse,Dorial Green-Beckham Eagles Jersey, neglect and sexual abuse which poses a threat to their schooling, health, wellbeing and the future of Guyana.The children who participated in the rally which culminated at the Esplanade Park,Anthony Steen Dolphins Jersey, were drawn from various schools in New Amsterdam, East and West Canje.Probation and Social Services Officer attached to the Ministry of Human Services,Dallas Thomas Dolphins Jersey, Desmond Nelson addressed the gathering. Nelson commented on a number of topics, including violence against youths and children, which he states has no barriers including race, class or culture. He stated that violence against youths occurs anywhere- on the street,Adam Joseph Duhe Dolphins Jersey, in our homes, places of work and other places that young person’s find themselves.Nelson stated that perpetrators of violence against children and youth are not necessarily strangers. They could be family members, teachers, caretakers,Branden Albert Dolphins Jersey, law enforcement authorities and even other children. He said that violence is evident in all communities.He urged victims not to live under strenuous conditions,Jay Ajayi Dolphins Jersey, but to speak out.During the march the children chanted anti-child abuse slogans. Among some of the slogans were -”We will tell. Taxi man,Nelson Agholor Eagles Jersey, leave the li’l girl alone. It could be you own daughter.”The campaign to stamp out violence against children was imbedded in the international campaign to stop child abuse. This received international attention when the first International Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse was held.The Women’s World Summit Foundation (WWSF) launched WWSF 19 days of activism a global campaign which is held from November 1 to November 19.Also speaking at the rally was Peace Corps Volunteer, Julia O’Conor, from the University of Maryland School Of Social Work in the U.S.A. who is on attachment with the Comforting Hearts organization.In her presentation,Ron Brooks Eagles Jersey, she also urged children to speak out whenever there is anything done to harm them. |
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