By Sue-Ann Wayow
PURPLE benches are being set up across the constituency of Chaguanas East and will serve as a reminder to women that they can be safe and reach out for help.
On Tuesday, the Purple Bench Project was launched to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), 2022.
The project is an initiative in collaboration with Women of Substance Onika Mars of Tobago and Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East Vandana Mohit.
The aim of the project is to create safe spaces for women and to raise awareness of the issues of domestic violence, gender-based violence and the avenues appropriate for seeking assistance and advice.
AZPNews.com was told that the 20 benches will be outfitted with artwork done by community groups with a positive uplifting message and will also have contact numbers for support hotlines for women seeking help.
It will also send a message to police, that if a woman is seen on the bench, there is a possibility, she may be in need of help and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) can reach out to assist.
The bench unveiling took place at Jimroy Wyse Park on the corner of Southern Main Road and Crown Trace in Enterprise Chaguanas.
Speaking at the event, Mohit urged for women to come together regardless of age, race, social standing or sexual orientation to lobby for equality of rights. She said that the focus must not only be placed on women but also on conditioning men, and young boys to respect women and strive for equality.
Also speaking at the event was Mars who joined via Zoom.
A moment of silence was held in remembrance of all women who lost their lives including Patricia Phillip, the country’s latest domestic violence victim.
During the course of the week, other benches will be installed at various parks and public areas in Chaguanas East.
The MP’s office also arranged for 200 lunches and snacks to be given out to women to show appreciation to the women in the constituency.
