Imaji Lasahido (Intern), Jakarta – In the closing of the 16 days of activism against gender violence in Indonesia since November 25, the campaign organizer arranged an event called "UNiTE" to spread awareness of gender-based violence through music and stand-up comedy.
The musical performance will feature Hara, The Dare, and Yacko, along with a stand-up comedy entitled "Comedy for Equality", featuring six Indonesian comedians mentored by Sakdiyah Ma'ruf. The event was held at M Bloc Square, Jakarta, on December 10, 2022.
As the level of violence that befalls upon women in Indonesia continued to increase, the event provides the possibility for the approach of music and comedy as a medium for mustering public support. Indonesian female stand-up comedian, Sakdiyah Ma'ruf, said that comedy in sharing everyday experiences can draw attention to the public on neglected issues, especially violence toward women.
"Comedy may not change the behaviour directly, but it could encourage to open a discussion on sensitive topics that could help oppose stigma and stereotypes," said Sakdiyah Ma'ruf.
Musician Hara (Rara Sekar Larasati), shared her opinion on music as a means of knowledge to convey messages and values that produce empathy, solidarity and collective action against violence.
"Either they are aware or unaware, music has its importance to convey that there is a lot of violence happening around us, especially against women," said Rara.
According to the report from the National Commission on Violence Against Women, gender-based violence in 2022 in the last five years experienced 36% psychological violence, 33% Sexual Violence, 18% physical violence, and 13% economic violence.
Commissioner of the National Commission on Violence Against Women, Mariana Amiruddin, said that violence keeps occurring toward women due to the lack of strengthening the mentality which causes many victims of violence afraid to speak up.
According to her, Indonesia is still lacking in services and facilities to aid victims of violence in building up their mentality.
The UNiTE event is organized by the French Embassy, the Indonesian Francais Institute, and the Agency of the United Nations in Indonesia – UNDP, UNFPA, UN Information Centre, UN Women and WHO in collaboration with the National Commission on Violence Against Women and Jakarta Feminist.