Breaking Gender Stereotypes is the Need of the Time -Theater Performance on Violence Against Women

Lahore;15th Dec2019- Minister of Social Welfare (Punjab Women Protection Authority) Kaneez Fatima has urged women to play proactive role in order to move Pakistan towards peace and prosperity. She was speaking at a theater performance on violence against women, performed by the Rafi Peer theatre in collaboration with Oxfam in Pakistan.

The Minister said that it is need of time to break gender stereotypes. “We must start with our own households,” she expressed, adding that rights of every citizen must be protected. On the occasion, Country Director of Oxfam in Pakistan Mohammed Qazilbash, CEO Rafi Peer Theatre Usman Peerzada and other distinguished speakers were also present.

The play highlighted violence as a societal ailment that contributes to the regression of the social fabric; propelling injustice, illiteracy and inequity, and strengthening negative cultural norms. It also portrayed that a woman must play her due role to end the cycle of violence and abuse.

Leading an interactive discussion on social injustice and the role of women in society, veteran artist Mr. Usman Peerzada, CEO Rafi Peer Theatre said, “theater is a good medium to engage the audience while also sharing lessons on ending violence against women. We all can play a part to end its grip on our society”

Oxfam in Pakistan’s Country Director Mohammed Qazilbash said, “Gender inequality is both the cause and the consequence of violence against women and girls. Gender stereotypes still contribute to violence against women and girls. Change starts in the household. Women and girls need to be respected by the men and the boys in the house, or nothing will change in our society.”

A large number of audience belonging to different walks of life, civil society, academia and media was also present on the occasion.