Understanding GBV: what pupils need to know

UNWANTED TOUCHING

- KELLY JADE REDDY

IT STARTS small, for example, a rumour by fellow pupils.

The murmurs and words whispered in the corridor. The body comments coming from the person that is in the same classroom as you. A “joke” that puts you down or makes you uncomfortable.

Someone is sending you texts that are not appropriate for the classroom, or speaking to you differently because you are a female pupil.

Are you recognising this? If you do, then you are facing gender-based violence (GBV).

GBV is not only about hurting someone in a physical way. It is about gaining control over someone. It is something a person does, when that person (male or female) uses words, threats or actions directed at you, which make you feel insecure or less worthy as a person just by being a certain gender.

@ Unwanted touching in hallways or grabbing.

@ “Jokes” about your clothes or body.

Spreading gossip, as well as posting on social media private images of the person.

@ Sexually harassing comments, either by someone in authority at school or fellow pupils.