Te Kupenga supports efforts of anti-violence campaigner Richie Hardcore

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday 28 July 2014

Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga – National Network of Stopping Violence Services (Te Kupenga) wholeheartedly endorses statements made by DJ, Kickboxer and Anti-Violence Campaigner Richie Hardcore this morning on TV3’s Firstline about the role of men in addressing sexual violence.

“Acknowledging that sexual violence is ultimately a gendered issue is actually a really positive thing – not all men perpetrate violence, but all men can be part of the solution.” says Te Kupenga spokesperson Jeremy Logan. “Ignoring the gendered nature of violence, ignores the statistical reality of violence experienced every day by women and children in Aotearoa, which is sadly,
overwhelmingly perpetrated by men.”

“Men speaking out about the epidemic levels of violence in our country is really important. It helps to challenge the unhelpful and pervasive attitudes that still exist here, that place the blame on victims and survivors, rather than those committing the violence themselves.” While the exact figures are hard to pinpoint, New Zealand based studies suggest that up to one in three women and one in 10 men will suffer sexual abuse at some time in their lives.

The guiding principles of Te Kupenga and their member organisations are based firmly around the sanctity of women and divinity of children. “Whilst, acknowledging the part men have to play in this is a necessary first step, an important corollary to this is appropriate sanctioning, rehabilitation

and support for those who perpetrate violence” says Logan. “Appropriate means the services for survivors and perpetrators are well funded and established on New Zealand based evidence.”

ENDS

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