By: Misdariah (P3A SEJOLI Banjarnegara)

I am already an older person, 53 years old to be precise, but I am still active in the village, and I have been active since I was young. I have been a cadre in the Family Planning Service Post – Integrated Health, in the village of Cilalung in the sub-district of Bajarnegara in Jawa Tengah. I have also always been active in activities in the village. I was one of the first people to join with Mitra Wacana WRC’s activities in the village. I always joined in with Mitra Wacana WRC’s activities at that time, although now it is harder for me to join activities because it’s difficult for me to travel around, so I am only able to participate in activities that are close to my home, or if there is someone willing to accompany me.

The most surprising thing for me with Mitra Wacana WRC was the first time I met with Pak Martin from Germany, that was the first time that I ever met and shook hands with a foreigner. I was very happy, Martin was very friendly, he greeted me and asked me “Are you afraid of me?” I answered “I’m not afraid Mister, I’m very happy to meet you.” Pak Martin laughed and gave me a thumbs up. That event was very impressive for me, and is something that I will not forget for my entire life.

After meeting with Pak Martin, I actively joined the activities that were carried out by Mitra Wacana WRC. I learnt many new and interesting things, I originally didn’t know what violence was. Little by little, I began to learn more about domestic violence, and the handling of victims of violence. Although I learnt more about it, I still feel scared if there is a case of violence towards women and children in Bondolharjo village.

Although I now have a better understanding about laws, and protecting women and children from violence, as well as becoming a member of Sejoli Women’s and Children’s Empowerment Centre, I’m still scared if I receive a report about a case of violence towards women and children. I am still afraid of the perceived public perception of people who interfere in the problems of others. I also often receive advice as well as warnings when there is a case, because people don’t like others to get involved in their problems, so if people do become involved then later people will become mad and not accepting of our actions. My family has also given me the same advice, this has caused me to still be afraid and shy when cases of violence happen around us.

It’s better for me to be quiet than to receive threats and pressure from various sides. However, I am also confused, because we have been taught about the importance of protecting women and children from violence. At this moment, I can only support Sejoli empowerment centre and be active in the Integrated Service Post first, while I wait for society to better understand the reality of violence.