On May 5th, 2014, we ended our 5th training session with an extraordinary ceremony, which included members of Panzi Foundation DRC and the Chairman of the board, Dr. Denis Mukwege. Partners from the grassroots associates were also present, along with past graduates who came to participate in their sisters’ victory and healing from their traumas.
During this session, we have given shelter to women from several tribes of Eastern DRC, including Pygmies, whereas these native people have been marginalized from the society for many years.
While I was looking at them reciting the ten tenets, which are the “conductive wire” or “backbone” of our whole program to transform pain to power, it was as though they were saying the rosary. I was watching them screaming with laughter, and solemnly telling us that they will go farther with our flag to spread the message of LOVE. After having lived six full months together, they have proved that it is possible to dance and sing together in a multilingual setting where women live in unity and peace. I believed once more that we are still on our way and that the women who are getting trained and healed are the FUTURE of the CONGO. A young lady confided with me that they will answer with love even against the worst cases of violence.
I have watched with eyes filled with love and pride for the achieved work because we planted seeds of revolution with one clear goal: “to create a network of women who will bring the much needed CHANGE so that women can find the place and dignity they deserve in society“.
We have already graduated 401 women. We are preparing the beginning of the sixth training session. A saying from Oscar Wilde inspires and guides me every time: “Always aim for the moon, even if you miss it, you’ll land among the stars”.
I can’t end without expressing my feelings of deep gratitude to all those who believed in us, beginning with V. We have the privilege to be supported by a group of devoted and extraordinary human beings who have been always by our side since we had our far-fetched dreams.
My gratitude is addressed to the US V-Day team, and a big thank you to our V-Day Congo team members without whom we wouldn’t exist.
Much Love to ALL and again deepest gratitude!
Christine Schuler Deschryver
V-Day Congo Director/ Director City of Joy