First BAME women’s conference on 15 February 2020
‘Breaking the silence together’ marks the beginning of raising awareness for BAME women facing Domestic Abuse/ Violence in the Kent and Canterbury District. EMIC volunteers were joined by an exceptional body of professional agencies all of whom managed to inform, support and encourage BAME women. Each speaker was both engaging and approachable they managed to offer valuable insight into the myriad of issues surrounding the sensitive topic of Domestic Abuse/ Violence and FGM; leaving guests with a renewed sense of encouragement and hope. The personal experiences shared; struck a chord with all and served as a reminder that domestic abuse/violence has no prejudice. ‘Breaking the Silence’ was an opportunity for BAME women to release feelings of shame and loneliness; realise their strengths and begin their journey of healing.
AIMS
The event ‘Breaking the Silence’, aimed to meet framework outlined in the EMIC strategic Plan: 2020-2023
Specific aims were:
- To encourage BAME women of domestic abuse/violence to break the silence in Kent & Canterbury District
- To ensure BAME women of domestic abuse/violence receive relevant information about reporting domestic abuse/violence to the relevant agencies (such as the police, Kent Fire & Rescue Services, Rising Sun, East Kent Rape Crisis, NHS and Citizen’s Advice)
- To ensure BAME women of domestic abuse/violence understand immigration laws and rights
- To discuss FGM and Domestic Abuse/Violence: reasons why women may not report
- To provide BAME women the opportunity to share experiences and heal
