The conversations continued today with the women, we begun by reflecting on our previous conversation.
Today....19 June 2008
The conversations shifted from basic issues for women and girls, to early marriages which is one of the main concern shared in homes, in community conversations, and through the YCD and kids connections.
The women expressed that, they marry off their girls early because, they are afraid that the girl 'might' misbehave and bring dishonor to the family. We asked what other ways they think are strategic to maintain the family honor without the marriage. They talked about mentoring, education and counselling processes for the community to be aware of the issues related to early marriages. They also said, maybe they can start moulding children; while they are still young to prevent misbehaviour's as adults. Most of the women in the village, were married at an early age. We asked them, how that experience was.
'It was painful to be married at that age' one said...
'I was thinking of just playing, and didn't know anything about marriage nor a husband' another woman said.
'I was still a child, nothing made sense' another one said
We also asked, if that was the experience for them; is that what they desire for their girls? Girls who haven't matured to bear children?
....This seemed to be the first time anyone had ever asked that question;it became a conversation amongst themselves for a few minutes.
Some begun to say, I didn't think of it this way, hearing this conversation is making me re-think. I am ashamed of what I have done to my girl?
Another one said 'I think I am going to wait, give my daughter time to finish education'
This was a thought stimulating conversation; it went on for about 50 minutes as we talked more about this issue which is the main concern. The women are eager to know more on, issues related to women empowerment; even through adult literacy. The team is aware that this concern has many deep roots e.g culture, but the husbands/fathers are key role players.
There was a young woman who was part of the conversation, she finished her education and now a teacher. The women said she looked different from the others and was doing very well. This was a typical example of how young women can make it. They are not hopeless.
We asked if they would want to continue with the conversation and they agreed to meet again on Sat or Tuesday afternoon. We are still exploring that concern together.
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