PNG anti-domestic violence group sees phenomenal growth in 24 hours
“PAPUA NEW GUINEANS AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE” was created just after midday yesterday. In less than an hour, membership grew from an initial 85 to more than 2000. According to the group’s description, its creator established the group out of a personal frustration after reading about the plight of Ms. Joy Wartovo who was beaten and tortured by her policeman husband. A few days ago, Joy was again admitted to the Port Moresby General hospital with multiple knife wounds inflicted by the same culprit.
The group's membership now stands at just over 3000 members and facebook users are adding more and more of their friends.
Domestic violence is an issue that resonates with all Papua New Guineans. Nearly every Papua New Guinean has experienced or committed domestic violence. Many group members are now using the opportunity to speak out about their personal experiences of abuse and physical violence.
The group is also fast expanding to include professionals and experts living overseas. Among them is Professor Judy Atkinson, an expert on domestic violence who is currently assisting women in Port Moresby’s Kaugere settlement. Professor Atkinson was added by “Cuma Png” who runs a community based music and arts school in Kaugere. Others also on the group include Papua New Guinean lawyers, musicians, and journalists.