2012-2013

 

Larisa Leeuwe

v.2.06_22-09-2013

Domestic violence is a worldwide problem...

As Miss Aruba I have passionately been working on various projects for a good cause in the Aruban community. My main project is titled “Aruba against domestic violence” and focuses on helping children reach their full potential.

 

Why did I choose this project?
Domestic violence is a worldwide problem that affects people of all races, ages, social classes and cultures, and unfortunately also on my native island of Aruba. It is a problem that affects mainly women and children, and because of its sensitive nature most people would shy away from this topic, instead of confronting it. Especially on a small island like Aruba, the topic has become a taboo. The impact of domestic violence on victims and our community is largely underestimated. According to the World Health Organization acts of violence against women and children are causing more deaths and disabilities than cancer, malaria, traffic accidents and war combined...

 

Every child has a voice...

All children have personality traits, potential passions, skills and should have the right to excel and succeed in life. Responsibility first lies with parents and caregivers but communities also have an important role.

 

There are two periods when children are especially vulnerable: when they are very young  and when they enter adolescence. Both positive and adverse events will impact on how children go on to function as adults. Violence in the home or chronicle neglect by parents can cause long-term damage to a child.

 

To protect children in Aruba we all need to work together and take action! This is the reason why I chose the slogan:

 

“Aruba against domestic violence”