Religious fundamentalism was present across all faiths and religions. A safe space for women should include not only a physical space but also a psychological one, said Belinda Bennet at a function held here on Saturday where three awards were instituted in the name of her daughter Jennifer Bennet under the tag ‘I Rise.’
Jennifer Bennet, a social worker and a member of YWCA’s national board, was a victim of religious fundamentalism meted out by her husband and in-laws, said Ms. Belinda. Jennifer had lost her identity and freedom to choose what she wanted to do. She was forced to follow rigid religious practices. The identity of women was often mixed with that of their husbands, Ms. Belinda said.
Rev. Vincent Manoharan said religious fundamentalism existed among Christians too.
“Each individual has a way to approach the Almighty and they should not be forced to follow particular religious practices that will pressurise them to take an extreme step,” he said.
Advocate Pandiyan said women were facing oppression not only from outside but also within the family. Anand Kumar Bolimera, CEO of Change Alliance, said that psychological violence caused more harm than physical violence. He added that the society was yet to come to terms with the term ‘equality’ and men should be sensitised on such issues.
The three awards which were instituted in the name of Jennifer were: ‘Jenny’s circle of love-safe space for women’; Vidiyal Young Women of the year Annual Award for fight against caste oppression; and Social Awareness Society for Youth (SASY)’s Salute to Woman Annual Award honouring young women leaders pursuing gender equality and equity.
Sakuntala David, national president, YWCA of India, also spoke.
