GBVRC sensitization on Gender Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) is the most extreme expression of unequal gender relations in society. It is first and foremost a violation of human rights, and a global health issue that cuts across boundaries of economic wealth, culture, religion, age, and sexual orientation.

GBVRC acronym for Gender Based Recovery Center was formed to provide comprehensive, quality care for survivors of rape, sexual violence and sexual exploitation.Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer persons continue face disappropriate level of GBV that can sometimes go unreported due to lack or insufficient knowledge GBVRC may have on them, stigma and discrimination they may face in the hands of the service providers.  Women working with women organized a sensitization training for GBVRC practitioners. The workshop organized through American Jewish World Service (AJWS) is part of the mandate we seek to address on reducing violence targeted towards LBQT persons. The facilitator was Madam Grace Aketch from GBVRC at Jaramogi Odinga Oginga Teaching and Referral Hospital. (JOORTH) The training was entailed to make the service providers aware of the minority population and how they can well respond to GBV and take collective action. The participants were taken through the following topics, Conflict Resolution, Gender and sexual diversity and what every staff need to commit to do to have a better space and accommodate everyone regardless of one’s gender or sexual orientation. What are the response to Gender Based Violence that LBQT persons may encounter in the GBVRC? Without needed knowledge on gender and sexual minorities, GBVRC staffs may find it difficult to handle such cases, but they need to be prepared to handle such incidents in a manner that prioritizes confidentiality, respect, sensitivity and the dignity of the survivors. The action plan included; referral systems, safety and security, health services and refer survivors who wish to seek legal redress.